40 Years of Fraternity Legislation

40

Years of Fraternity Legislation General Convention Minutes from the Fraternity’s First 40 Years

by William Raimond Baird

Forty Years of

Fraternity Legislation Being the Minutes of the Several Conventions of the Beta Theta Pi, a College Fraternity, from 1839 to 1879. Reprinted, with Notes, under the Authority of the Convention of 1915

BY

WM. RA IM O ND BA IRD , M .E., LL.B. Author of “ American College Fraternities” “ A Handbook of Beta Theta P i,” “ Betas of Achievement”

NEW Y O R K

T H E BETA PU B LISH IN G COM PANY 363 W EST 20th S T R E E T 1916

"preface During the summer of 1915, I was requested by the trustees of Beta Theta Pi to undertake the preparation of a narrative or history of the constitutional, legislative and administrative de­ velopment of the fraternity. The fraternity is nearly eighty years old; it has experienced practically all of the vicissitudes comprehended within the experience of the class of organiza­ tions to which it belongs and it has had some unique experiences of its own; it has preserved its records in greater part, and has been the prime mover in the invention or adoption of many of the characteristic features of the present American College Fraternity. In view of such circumstances, it was felt that an obligation rested upon the fraternity to publish a record of its experiences for its own members and for the students of American educational history.

M y reply to the request was that I would willingly under­ take the work, provided I was given time enough to do it and provided that, as a preliminary undertaking, the minutes of the fraternity conventions for the first forty years of its existence should be put into accessible form. The minutes of the con­ ventions from 1842 to 1870 have never been printed; they were usually copied into the record books of the respective chapters and contained many errors and some omissions. Like all records transcribed by hand, they contained inaccuracies easily discemable by those who knew the facts, but otherwise quite unintelli­ gible, and it was felt that it was first necessary to lay the foun­ dation of fact for the proposed narrative before beginning work upon the narrative itself.

This volume is the result of the carrying out therefore of the first part of this undertaking. Copies of the minutes were pro­ cured from the older chapters and compared with each other and have been edited only to the extent of correcting obvious errors and making them intelligible. The full minutes of the convention of 1867 have never been found. A t the close of that 3

4

P R E FA C E

convention merely a synopsis of its proceedings was sent to all of the existing chapters. It is stated in the minutes of the con­ vention of 1868 that the minutes of the preceding convention were read and approved, but as early as 1880, when I sought to procure a copy of the full minutes of this convention, I could find none, although I wrote to all who were present at the con­ vention and to all of the chapters then existing.

Some notes have been added to the minutes of each con­ vention in explanation of or supplemental to the contents of such minutes, and I hope that these may be helpful to those interested.

It was not thought necessary to print the minutes of any convention subsequent to that of 1878 for the reason that the convention of that date adopted a new constitution and system of laws which do not vary materially from those at present in force and the convention naturally closes a period of progressive development culminating in the adoption of the legislation referred to and the publication of our organic law, and for the further reason that since that date many copies of the minutes of the several conventions are accessible as they have been printed in the Beta Theta Pi magazine.

W M. RAIM ON D BA IR D April, 1916.

CONTENTS Page Introduction . .

The First Constitution .

The Second Constitution .

Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of

. .

1842 1847 1848 1851 1854 1856 1858

Minutes Minutes Minutes Minutes

i860.

1864 1865 1866.

of of of of

the the the the

Convention Convention Convention Convention

of of of of

.

.

.

.

. . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . .

. . .

.

5 11 13 17 25 29 35 43 51 61

. .

. .

69 77 83 89

.

Minutes of the Convention of 1867

.

.

.

107

Minutes Minutes Minutes Minutes Minutes

1868 1869 1870 1871 1872

. . . . .

. . . . .

. . . . .

111 127 149 173 191

Minutes of the Convention of 1873 The Third Constitution . .

. .

. .

. .

219 255

Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of Minutes of the Convention of The Fourth Constitution Conclusion . . .

Index . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

259 289 309 333 375 385 387

of of of of of

the the the the the

Convention Convention Convention Convention Convention

of of of of of

1875 1876 1877 1878 . . .

"Introduction This volume contains the formal minutes of the proceedings of the conventions of delegates constituting the legislative body of Beta Theta Pi during the first forty years of its existence.

Beta Theta Pi was organized in the summer of 1839 by eight young men, students at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. It was a development of the spirit of mutual helpfulness and com­ radeship which had resulted in the formation of similar organi­ zations at Miami and at other of the American colleges. The first of these organizations, which bore a Greek name, was Phi Beta Kappa, organized at the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, in 1776. The skeleton organization of Phi Beta Kappa contained the essential framework of the Greek letter organizations which followed it. It professed to be liter­ ary— it was actually social— it professed to be secret— it was actually private. It had a Greek letter name— it was intended to be extended to other colleges and places, and its branches or chapters were designated by the letters of the Greek alphabet in the order of their origin. It established chapters at Yale and Harvard, and after the death of the parent chapter these two chapters established others quite in modern fashion, plac­ ing one at Union College, Schenectady, New York, in 1817. In 1825, at Union, there was established a society similar to Phi Beta Kappa and called the Kappa Alpha society, and which possessed all of the outward characteristics of its predecessor.

The establishment of chapters by Kappa Alpha at other col­ leges led to the foundation of other fraternities by imitation, until, in 1832, Alpha Delta Phi originated at Hamilton College, founded

by Samuel Eels of the class of ’32. In 1833 he established the second chapter of Alpha Delta Phi at Miami University, and by 1839 this society had established chapters at Hamilton Col­ lege, Miami University, the University of the C ity of New York, Columbia College, Yale College, Amherst College, Brown University, and Harvard College. And when the summer of 5

6

INTRODUCTION

1839 arrived, the college fraternity system comprised chapters of Kappa Alpha at Union and Williams, of Sigma Phi at Union, Williams, Hamilton, and the University of the C ity of New York, of Psi Upsilon at Union and the University of the C ity of New York, Delta Phi at Union and Brown, the Mystic Seven (which did not have a Greek name but possessed all the other characteristics of this class of societies) at Wesleyan University, which was local, and three other locals at Wesleyan, Trinity, and the University of Vermont, and Phi Beta Kappa at Yale, Harvard, Dartmouth, Union, Bowdoin and Brown, although in 1831 this last named society had lost its secret character by disclosing its motto and constitution.

The circumstances surrounding the origin of Beta Theta Pi have been somewhat fully described by the writer in the Hand­ book of Beta Theta Pi (New York, N. Y ., 1907), and will there­ fore not be recounted here.

It is difficult for the modern reader to realize the conditions of the college world into which Beta Theta Pi was born. The colleges which were then in existence in the United States with the dates at which they opened their doors to students were as follows: In New England, Colby, 1820; Bowdoin, 1802; Dart­ mouth, 1769; Middlebury, 1800; University of Vermont, 1800; Norwich, 1819 (then a military school); Harvard, 1636; Brown, 1765; Yale, 1701; Wesleyan, 1831; Trinity, 1824; Amherst, 1821; and Williams, 1793. In the middle states, Union, 1795; Hamilton, 1812; Hobart, 1822; Madison (now Colgate), 1819; Troy Polytechnic, 1824; New York University, 1832 ; ^Alfred, 1836, and Columbia, 1754; Rutgers, 1766, and Princeton, 1746; the University of Pennsylvania, 1740; Dickinson, 1783; Jeffer­ son, 1780; Pennsylvania College, 1827; Marshall College, 1836; St. John’s (Md.), 1789; Columbian (now George Washington), 1821; Delaware College, 1834; Lafayette, 1832. In Virginia, William & Mary, 1693; Hampden-Sidney, 1776; Richmond, 1832; Randolph-Macon, 1830; Emory & Henry, 1838; the University of Virginia, 1825; and Washington College at Lex ington, 1749; in North Carolina, Davidson, 1837, and the University at Chapel Hill, 1795; in South Carolina, The College of Charleston, 1790, and the University at Columbia, 1805; in Georgia, Mercer, 1837; the University of Georgia at Athens

INTRODUCTION

7

(then called Franklin College), 1801; and Emory College, 1836; in Tennessee, The University of Tennessee, 1794; in Louisiana, the University of Louisiana (nowTulane), 1834; in Mississippi, Mississippi College (at Clinton), 1826; in Kentucky, Transyl­ vania University, 1798; and Centre College, 1819; in Alabama, the University at Tuscaloosa, 1831; in Ohio, Miami, 1824; Western Reserve (then at Hudson), 1826; Ohio, 1808; Marietta, 1800; Kenyon, 1824; Granville, 1831 (now Denison); Oberlin, 1833; in Indiana, Indiana University, 1824; Hanover, 1821; Franklin, , 1834; Wabash, 1831, and Indiana-Asbury (now DePauw), 1837; in Illinois, Knox, 1836; Illinois College, 1829; McKendree, 1828; Shurtleff, 1827.

If there were any other colleges then existing they were unimportant.

In all these colleges there was pursued practically an identical course of study, comprising Latin, Greek, mathematics, mental and moral science, physics (then called natural philosophy), and sometimes history. The entrance requirements were low in standard and seldom rigorously enforced. Most of the colleges had less than one hundred students and had large preparatory departments which frequently were greater in the number of the students and in importance than the colleges themselves. Their equipment was meagre and insufficient; their libraries were small, and the teaching force small and inadequately paid, but it must be said that the teaching force was composed of men of culture and talent, who inspired the students with a real love of learning which is perhaps not accomplished to such a great extent at the present day.

Many of the colleges were under the auspices of a religious denomination, and their endowments, such as they were, were derived from the contributions of the members of such denom­ inations who appointed the Board of Trustees and controlled the character of the teaching in the direction of their own par­ ticular tenets.

There were no intercollegiate relations; no debates, no ath­ letic contests, and very little visiting between the colleges. Base­ ball and football had not yet been invented, nor college jour­ nalism thought of. In almost every college, there existed two or more literary societies, which all of the students were expected to join, and the political energies of the students were largely

8

INTRODUCTION

devoted to an endeavor to secure offices in such societies. Col­ lege rebellions against a rigid discipline were frequent and some­ times bloody, and it was not uncommon for a considerable num­ ber of students to move simultaneously from one college to another.

A t that time, practically the only secret society which was widespread was that of the Free Masons. Owing to the political activities of the Masons in Europe and South America, they were suspected of political activity in the United States, and their order being secret was necessarily held to be immoral by narrow-minded people.

It can well be imagined that the introduction of secret socie­ ties into colleges of the type described was regarded by most college faculties with abhorrence. It was at once imagined that the only reason for their secrecy was the planning of violations of College discipline, and opposition to the societies on the part of college officials was general and pronounced. Opposition also arose among the students because the secret societies utilized their united powers in securing offices in the literary societies and excited the envy and hatred of other students because the members belonged to something which the outsiders had not been invited to join. This student opposition resulted in the organization at Williams, Union, and later at other col­ leges, of anti-secret societies which afterwards developed into the fraternity of Delta Upsilon.* The society chapters at this early stage of their existence practically took no pains to conciliate the opposition to them on the part of either faculty or students. They were managed by college boys with all the faults of an immature judgment.

They were snobbish and called those who did not belong to the societies “ barbarians;” in analogy to ancient nomenclature, calling themselves Greeks. They assumed to have absorbed all of the culture and social refinement of the student body in the midst of which they were placed; but they were guilty of many breaches of college discipline and they acted generally without plan, purpose or judgment. Their practices did not square * This society was originally called The Anti-Secret Society, and its badge displayed the initials (A. S. S.) of the society, until it was laughed out of existence, and a new name adopted.

INTRODUCTION

9

with their principles; they raided each other’s trunks and treas­ uries; they stole each other’s constitutions, records and corre­ spondence; they endeavored to seduce members from one to the other, and not infrequently succeeded, all the time professing devotion to a high sense of loyalty, a rare sense of honor, and intellectual attainment. They resembled very much in their conduct the knights of the feudal age when chivalry was most in vogue, when such knights, professing love of God, loyalty to the King, and profound respect for ladies, sallied forth from filthy stone castles, robbed the first priest they met, fought each other to destruction, and abducted and forcibly married the infant heiress to the nearest estate.

Beta Theta Pi was the victim of many of the abhorred prac­ tices of the fraternities; its chapters were stolen and its mem­ bers lifted, but at the same time that it was metaphorically cry­ ing “ Stop thief,” it was lifting men from other fraternities and boasting of it in its correspondence. M any of the practices referred to persisted down to what might be called modern times, and the writer of this, while he was an undergraduate, sat unashamed in a stolen chair and ate and drank stolen victuals and drink, and regarded it all as the usual incidents of college and fraternity existence.

As time went on, the conditions of the colleges improved, the relations between the society chapters and the college offi­ cials became more sensible, and not infrequently the officials were initiated as honorary members and lent their aid to an improvement in the fraternity condition.

As the members of the fraternities grew in years and experi­ ence they acquired judgment and improved the administration of the fraternities until, by 1879, symptoms of interfraternity comity had begun to appear, fraternity morals had improved, the chapters had taken on a more stable form, and organization, chapter houses had begun to be occupied and erected, and fra­ ternity journalism had developed, and the present modern effi­ cient type of fraternity organization had begun to appear. In this scheme of improvement, Beta Theta Pi has held a promi­ nent position, and what might be called its natural history and its development from youth to maturity can be observed in the following pages.

C?l)e .fir s t Constitution ( P r o b a b l y o f 1839) A r t ic l e

i

.

The title of this association shall be Beta

Theta Pi. A r t . 2.

The motto of this association shall be * * * * A r t . 3. The objects of this association are found in the words of the motto, * * * * A r t . 4. The visible badge of this association shall be a breastpin bearing on front the following characters: 1st, three stars; 2nd, a crescent; 3rd, the initial letters of the motto; 4th, the date of the formation of this association. On the back a heart with a spear passed through it, together with the name of the member who wears it.

A r t . 5. The secret pass word of this Society shall be ----- , together with the words of the motto.

A r t . 6. No chapter of this association shall consist of more than nine or less than three regular members.

A r t . 7. No person shall become a member of this asso­ ciation of whose abilities we are not well assured, and in whose fidelity we have not the most implicit confidence, and not then unless by the united concurrence of every member present.

A r t . 8. Other branches of this association may be estab­ lished at such places as may be thought suitable and prudent.

A r t . 9. The badge shall not be worn by any member whilst in attendance at college, or in such other places as may be deemed by himself, or the members of this association, unsuitable.

A r t . 10. An address shall be delivered in private to the members of this association on each anniversary of its founda­ tion.

A r t . 1 1 . The members of each chapter shall meet at least once in each month, for the purpose of hearing an essay read by some member who shall have been appointed for this purpose, on any subjects connected with the objects of this association.

11

THE FIRST CONSTITUTION

A r t . 12. T h e signs, sy m b o ls, p ro cee d in g s a n d c o n s titu ­ tio n o f th is a s so cia tio n sh a ll b e k e p t in v io la b ly secret.

A r t . 13. E v e r y m e m b e r, b e fo re b e c o m in g a m em b e r o f th is asso cia tio n , sh a ll b in d h im se lf w ith th e fo llo w in g o b lig a tio n s.

These obligations are those which are common to every so called secret organization and, although they have been changed in wording from time to time, are omitted out of deference to the secret character of the fraternity.

Second Constitution ( P r o b a b l y o f 1840)

PR E A M B LE Believing everything which tends to the development of intellect, the refinement of feeling, the promotion of confidence and the closer union of kindred hearts, to be in the highest degree beneficial to society; and trusting that we shall in some degree be enabled to accomplish these ends, we form ourselves into an association to be governed by the following outline of policy: Art. 1st, Sec. 1st. the Beta Theta Pi. S e c . 2nd.

*

*

This association shall be known as

The motto of this association shall be: ----- ;

Expressing the objects for whose promotion we have united. * * A r t . 2nd.

This association shall be composed of chapters established in such places as may be deemed expedient by threefourths ($4) of the existing chapters, which shall be named from their location and possess concurrent powers.

A r t . 3rd, S e c . 1st.

The visible badge of this association shall be a breast-pin, the front of which shall be black enamel, bearing, first, three stars in gold, denoting the principal objects of the association as expressed in Art. 1st, Sec. 2nd. Second, a diamond, encircled by a wreath in gold. The one denoting the character of the members for intellectual and moral worth, the other, the reward of high aspirations of honorable and virtuous effort. Third, the name of the association in gold.

Fourth, the date of its foundation in Greek characters, and in gold. Fifth, on the back, two hands clasped, indicative of friend­ ship, the name of the member who wears it, and the date of the chapter to which he belongs.

13

THE SECOND CONSTITUTION

14 S e c . 2nd.

The secret passwords of the association shall b e ---------------: in connection with the words of the motto.

S e c . 3rd.

No chapter or member of this association shall reveal anything in regard to it, more than its existence.

A r t . 4th. No p erso n sh a ll b eco m e a m em b e r o f th is a sso cia tio n u n less th e c h a p te r to w h ich h e is p ro p o sed sh all exp ress th e ir im p lic it co n fid en ce in h is a b ilitie s a n d in te g r ity b y e le c tin g h im u n a n im o u sly .

A r t . 5th, S e c . 1st.

The officers of each chapter shall be a President and Recorder, who shall be elected semi-annually, and enter upon their respective duties at the meeting next succeeding their election. And such other subordinates as each chapter may from time to time deem proper for itself.

S e c . 2nd.

The duties of the President shall be to preside at all meetings of the chapter; decide all points of order, ex­ pound the constitution and by-laws, subject to an appeal to the chapter; deliver an inaugural address, and upon the ad­ mission of any new members address them upon the nature and objects of the association, and such other matters as he may think proper.

S e c . 3rd.

The duties of the Recorder shall be to keep regular minutes of the proceedings of the chapter; to take ■charge of all its property; and to carry on a system of regular correspondence with the other chapters for the promotion of a regular interchange of information and sympathy.

A r t . 6th .

E a c h c h a p te r sh a ll c e le b ra te th e a n n iv e rs a ry

o f its fo u n d a tio n , b y th e d e liv e r y o f an o ra tio n a n d su ch o th e r exercises as m a y b e d eem ed su itab le .

A r t . 7th, S e c .

1st. There shall be a Triennial Convention of delegates from all the chapters; each chapter sending as many representatives as it may deem proper; but the delegation from a single chapter having but one vote in the convention.

S ec . 2nd. The object of the convention shall be to pro­ mote and consider the general interests of the association and hear an oration from a Speaker selected thus: A delegate

THE SECOND CONSTITUTION

15

from the oldest chapter to be the orator of the first convention, and so on, in the order of the foundation of the chapters.

S e c . 3rd.

The proceedings of this convention shall b e valid unless disapproved of b y one-third (}/0 of the chapters.

8th.

This constitution shall not be altered 01 amended except by the Triennial Convention, and shall be sovereign authority in all cases for which it provides; but each chapter shall make its own By-Laws, and such other regulations as may be necessary, provided that they conflict with no article in the constitution.

A rt.

A r t . 9th.

Every individual on being admitted as a mem­ ber of this association shall solemnly bind himself to the follow­ ing obligations, administered by the President.

The details of the obligation are omitted for the reasons stated on page 12.

This is the Constitution before it was amended by the Convention of 1842. We do not know when it was adopted. It must have been, of course, prior to that Convention and subsequent to the establishment of the second chapter and probably was in 1840.

The provision for an election to membership by a unanimous vote wasan advance in fraternity practice. Not all of the fraternities required it.

^ttinutes o f tl)e (Tonvention o f 1842 *PR O CE ED IN G S OF TH E F IR ST T R IE N N IA L CO N V EN TIO N OF B E T A T H E T A PI BEGUN A N D H ELD A T C IN C IN N A T I, OHIO Monday, August 15, 1842, at 3 o’clock P. M. The convention met and was called to order by Mr. John A. Collins, upon whose motion Mr. Thos. G. Mitchell was called to the chair. Mr. W. E. Blackburn was the appointed Secretary.

Delegates from the different chapters of the Association were called for, when the following persons gave in their names and took their seats as members of the Convention. From Miami, A. W. Hamilton, Wm. E. Blackburn, John A. Collins, James I. Berry; Cincinnati,Thomas G. Mitchell, John H. Jones, Alexander Paddock, John C. Zachos, Thompson L. Brown; Hudson (Western Reserve), B. F. Millard, and T. M. Oviatt; Athens (Ohio University), John M. Bush.

No delegates appeared from Transylvania and Jefferson chapters. On motion, an election was entered into, for perma­ nent officers of the Convention, which resulted in the choice of the pro tempore appointments.

A letter from the Jefferson chapter, stating their inability to be present in convention, and submitting sundry propositions for its consideration was then read and referred to Messrs. Jones and Zachos as a committee to report thereon.

Mr. Brown presented a resolution upon the subject of resig­ nations, which resolution had been adopted by the Cincinnati chapter, whose delegates were instructed to recommend its incorporation into the constitution of the Association.

On motion of Mr. Collins, the resolution, together with the whole subject of resignations, was referred to a committee.

Collins and Oviatt, that committee.

On motion, Mr. Hamilton was appointed a committee to report some further definite objects of the Association.

Mr. Millard moved for the repeal of Sec. 3, Art. 3 of the Con* We have preserved the original caption of the minutes of each Conven­ tion.— W. R. B.

17

18

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

stitution. After some remarks the motion was withdrawn, and committee appointed to report instanter upon the propriety of removing all obligation of secrecy as to the existence of the Association. Committee, Paddock and Millard. The committee reported: “ Resolved— that Sec. 3, Art. 3, be and is hereby repealed.”

Upon a motion to adopt, the report was discussed at great length and finally referred to the President, as a committee upon the subject.

On motion of Mr. Berry, the following order of business was adopted. 1st. Triennial Oration. 2nd. Report of the President.

3rd. Report upon Resignations. 4th. Report from Mr. Hamil­ ton. 5th. Report upon the letter from Jefferson chapter.

On motion, adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock this evening.

8 o’clock P. M. Convention met pursuant to adjournment. Messrs. Henry Snow, Jacob Burnett, Jr., and John L. Scott appeared as addi­ tional delegates from the Cincinnati chapter and took their seats as members of the Convention.

The first order of business was the Triennial address, which being called for, Mr. Hamilton delivered an able and eloquent oration.

The President presented the following report upon the subject referred to him. “ 1st. Resolved, That Art. 3, Sec. 3, be repealed. “ 2nd. Resolved, That no chapter or member of this Association shall reveal anything in regard to it, more than its mere existence. And that no chapter shall reveal even the exist­ ence of another chapter, without its consent.”

Upon a motion to adopt the report, a long and animated dis­ cussion took place, participated in by Messrs. Millard, Berry, Hamilton, Collins, Mitchell, Jones, Paddock, Blackburn, Oviatt, Zachos, Bush, Brown, and Burnett— at the close of which, the vote being taken, the report was adopted.

Mr. Hamilton presented a report upon the subject referred to him, which was accepted, and its consideration postponed until next meeting.

On motion, adjourned to meet to-morrow morning at 9 A .M .

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

Tuesday Morning, 9 o’clock A. M. The Convention met. Mr. Hamilton’s report was taken up for consideration, and after some debate referred back to the committee with instructions to present resolutions embodying the views of the report. Messrs. Bush and Zachos were added to the committee.

Mr. Jones, from the committee upon the letter from the Jefferson chapter, offered a report, concluding with resolutions as follows: “ 1st. Resolved, That a committee of one from each chap­ ter be appointed by the President of the Convention, by whom the time and place of the meeting of the next Convention shall be fixed. “ 2nd. Resolved, That a committee of one from each chapter be appointed by this Convention to select a seal. “ 3rd. Resolved, That this Convention recommends to each chapter to select its officers at the first meetings in January and July.”

Report accepted.

Upon a motion to adopt the resolutions, the first was nega­ tived and the following, on motion of Mr. Berry, substituted therefor: “ Resolved, That the next Triennial Convention be held at Lexington, K y., on the third Monday of September, 1845, pro­ vided that two-thirds (%) of the chapters may at any time change the time and place of holding said meeting.”

The second resolution was also lost, and the following adopted in the place of it. “ Resolved, That the Association shall have a Seal, to be stamped upon the seals of letters, the impressions upon which shall be two clasped hands and a Greek letter indicating the priority of the chapter.”

The third resolution was adopted.

Mr. Hamilton, from the committee on the subject, made the following report: “ 1st. Resolved, That the primary objects of this Associa­ tion are the promotion of truth and the cultivation of love. “ 2nd. Resolved, That, in order to attain these objects, some methods should be devised in order to bring the talents, attain­

20

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

ments, and pursuits of each member to bear upon the whole Association. “ 3rd. Resolved, That one of these methods should be the establishment, whenever it shall be deemed practicable, of literary institutions in Our Country. “ 4th. Resolved, That another of these methods should be the establishment as soon as practicable of a periodical with such objects as the Association may designate. “ 5th. Resolved, That for the attainment of these ends provisions should be made for the establishment of a society fund by annual contributions from its members.”

R eport accepted and committee discharged.

On motion of Mr. Snow: “ Resolved, That on account of the youth and weakness of the Association, no immediate steps for carrying into effect these resolutions would be expedient. But this committee recommends to the different chapters and to the members to mature and propose plans for their accomplishment.”

Mr. O viatt, from the Committee on Resignations, subm itted the following report, which was received and laid upon the table. “ Resolved, That each chapter have the power of expelling, dismissing, or suspending any member belonging thereto, if circumstances render it expedient, with such provisions as shall secure most effectually the interests of that chapter.

On motion, Convention adjourned, to meet at 3 o’clock P. M. 3 o’clock P. M. The Convention met. On motion of Mr. Millard, Sec. 3, Art. 7, of the Constitution was amended by adding “ within from four (4) months after the final adjournment of the Convention.”

Mr. Paddock offered the following amendments to the Con­ stitution, which were adopted: “ No person a member of any similar association shall be eligible to membership in this— and no member of this Association shall be eligible to member­ ship in any other association of similar objects. “ It shall be the duty of each chapter, semi-annually, to make a list of its members, a statement of its conditions and prospects, and of such other matters as may seem advisable,

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

21

and to transmit a copy of the same to every chapter of the Association.”

On motion of Mr. Millard, Mr. Snow’s resolution adopted this morning was reconsidered and the following offered as a sub­ stitute: “ Resolved, That this Association establish a periodical to be published monthly at-----and to be sustained by contribu­ tions of literary matter from all its members.”

After a very warm and animated discussion, in which Messrs.

Millard, Blackburn and Bush participated for the affirmative, and Messrs. Zachos, Paddock, Snow and Burnett for the nega­ tive, the resolution was withdrawn.

Mr. Snow’s resolution was then amended so as to read: “ Resolved, That this Convention earnestly recommend to the different chapters and members to mature and propose plans for the accomplishment of these objects,” and then adopted.

On motion, the subject of a periodical was referred to a committee to report thereon at the next Triennial Convention.

Committee, Hamilton, Millard and Zachos.

On motion, “ Resolved, That the date of the foundation of a chapter commences with its recorded organization.”

Adjourned to 8 o’clock P. M. 8 o’clock P. M. The Convention met. The report of the Committee on Resignations was taken up and considered. On motion of Mr. Jones, the resolution submitted by the committee was made to read: “ Resolved, That each chapter shall have power to make regulations for itself respecting resignations and expulsions,” and so amended was adopted.

On motion the resolution adopted this morning fixing the time and place of holding the next Covention was reconsidered and amended by striking out Lexington, K y., and putting in Cincinnati, O. On motion, ordered that a record book be procured, into which shall be transcribed the Constitution of jthe Association and the proceedings and regulations of the Triennial Conven­ tions; which book shall be deposited with the chapter with whom the next Triennial Convention shall be held.

On motion, the thanks of the Convention were returned to

22

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

Mr. H am ilton for his able address, and a copy of the same was requested, to be preserved with the documents of the Association.

On motion, Mr. Paddock was appointed assistant Secretary of the Convention.

Ordered, T h at the Secretary furnish each chapter with a copy of the proceedings of this Convention.

On motion, a vote of thanks was returned to the President and Secretary for the able and faithful discharge of their duties.

On motion, the Convention then adjourned. Sine die.

T h o s . G. M i t c h e l l , President.

W i l l i a m E. B l a c k b u r n , A lexander

P addock,

Secretaries.

Between the summer of 1839, when the fraternity was organized, and the stunmer of 1842, when the first convention was held, chapters had been established at Cincinnati College, April 8th, 1840; Western Reserve College, August 9th, 1841; Ohio University, November 9th, 1841; Transylvania Uni­ versity, January 31st 1842; and Jefferson College, June 1st, 1842.

It is to be noted that the attendants at this convention were well skilled in parliamentary practice. They adopted a formal order of business as soon as it became apparent that discussions were to take place concerning the subject matter of their deliberations, and they referred practically everything of importance to a committee to report.

A t that time, the distinction between constitutional law and legislative enactment was not generally made. The Constitution of the United States was a splendid example of this essential classification, but none of the frater­ nities seemed to have grasped it until recent years, and the difference between a constitution stating a fundamental organic law and a legislative enactment stating merely a course of procedure was not until recently appreciated.

For more than fifty years, the conventions of the college fraternities have wasted their energies on constitutional amendments because they have em­ bodied in their constitutions rules of conduct necessarily variable by students under different circumstances.

Another legislative vice illustrated by the proceedings of this conven­ tion is the enactment of laws or the passage of resolutions without taking steps to provide any means for carrying them out. That is, the delegates to the convention passed a resolution that certain things be done, and then con­ cluded, that as they ought to be done, they would be done, and went their several ways apparently without any further thought about the matter.

Again and again, this sort of action has taken place at our conventions, only to be condemned by the next succeeding convention because no one had felt under the obligation to perform a duty so generally expressed.

One of the most interesting features of this convention was the presenta­ tion of a project to establish a periodical, which was not actually established until 1872, thirty years later, and even then it was the first of the fraternity journals.

A t this convention, the provision was inserted into the constitution that no person a member of any similar association should be eligible to member­ ship in Beta Theta Pi, and similarly that no member of Beta Theta Pi should

THE M I N U T E S OF THE CON VENTION OF 1842

23

be eligible to membership in any other association of similar objects. A t this time, and for many years afterward, most of the college fraternity constitu­ tions contained the latter provision, but not the former, upon the theoiy apparently that a man who joined a second fraternity would naturally prefer it.

The whole question of double membership in various college fraterni­ ties arose at an early day in their history. It became a rather common thing for the fraternities at Hamilton, Union, and Williams to solicit for member­ ship members of the anti-secret society or societies. This was frequently sue cessful. It was but a step from that practice for the societies to invade each other’s ranks. This was termed “lifting” (derived from an ancient English word for theft). The secrecy surrounding each association rendered such a course of conduct practical. A t times there was a justification for it, when a student, unacquainted with his surroundings, had been induced to join a society whose members he subsequently found to be uncongenial, while he did find congeniality and companionship among the members of a rival so­ ciety. Students going from one college to another where the fraternity of their membership at their first college was not represented frequently joined a second society at their new college residence without any thought of dis­ loyalty to either organization. For instance, the founder of Phi Kappa Psi became a member of Delta Phi at Union, emigrating to Union from Jeffer­ son. This was especially the case where some of the fraternity chapters par­ took of the nature of class societies, as they did at Yale. A conspicuous exam­ ple of such membership was that of Andrew D. White, who was a member of Sigma Phi at Hobart from 1849 to 1850, and of Psi Upsilon at Yale in 1852 where Psi Upsilon was a junior society. Very rarely it happened that persons belonged to two fraternities simultaneously in the same college, con­ cealing from each fraternity the fact of their membership in the other. Such was the case with Henry H. Swift, Western Reserve ’42, and R. H. St. John, Western Reserve ’43, who apparently belonged to Alpha Delta Phi and Beta Theta Pi at the same time.

It should be noted that in the minutes of this convention the chapters are referred to almost entirely by localities, that is, the chapter at Miami was called “Oxford,” the chapter at Ohio University, “Athens,” the one at Cin­ cinnati College, “Cincinnati,” the one at Western Reserve, “Hudson,” and the one at Jefferson, “Canonsburg.” This practice persisted for a number of years.

Whether or not the chapters were named by the letters of the Greek alphabet in the order of their establishment is not known, but if they had been so named, they would have been designated as follows: Alpha— Miami; Beta— Cincinnati; Gamma— Western Reserve; Delta— Ohio; Epsilon— Transylvania; Zeta— Jefferson.

A rather surprising thing is that none of the founders of the frater­ nity attended this first convention, nor in fact did they attend any conven­ tion for the first forty years of the fraternity’s life.

The guiding spirits of the convention of 1842 were undoubtedly A. W. Hamilton of the Miami Chapter and John C. Zachos of the Cincinnati chap­ ter; the latter had a remarkable career (see Betas of Achievement) and was undoubtedly responsible for many of the actions of this convention although he was not publicly put forward as their sponsor.

It will be noticed that, in the minutes of this convention, and in the first constitutions, Beta Theta Pi is termed an association. Later, about 1854, it began to be termed a society, and it was not until 1872 or 1873 that the term fraternity came into general use. Major Wyllys C. Ransom and Edward Bruce Chandler of the Michigan chapter insisted on all occasions that

24

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1842

Beta Theta Pi should be called a fraternity and not an order or society.

Also it should be noted that the term “ Beta Theta Pi � was used in two senses, one to denote the fraternity and the other to denote its members as though it were a word in the plural.

The constitutional amendment requiring the chapters to make semi­ annual reports was a novelty in fraternity administration. This requirement has continued to the present day and has done much to consolidate and unify the fraternity. Dozens of the reports have been preserved. Since 1884 they have been printed and since 1891 the mid-winter reports have been collected and published as a special number of the magazine. So far as known Beta Theta Pi was the first fraternity to adopt such a system of reports.

M tinutes o f tl)c S p e c ia l Convention,

1847 C i n c i n n a t i , Friday, M ay 14,

1847.

Pursuant to a previous arrangement, a convention of the Beta Theta Pi assembled.

Mr. Geo. Hoadly, Jr., of the Hudson (Western Reserve) chapter was appointed President; Mr. Isaiah Little, of the Miami chapter, Vice-President; and Mr. Vamum D. Collins, of the Wabash chapter, Secretary.

The following gentlemen appeared and took their seats as delegates. Miami, Isaiah Little, L. G. Hay, S. S. Laws; Cin­ cinnati, Stanley Matthews, John A. Collins, Alexander Paddock, Thomas G. Mitchell, Henry Snow; Wabash, V. D. Collins; Hudson (Western Reserve), George Hoadley, Jr., Ebenezer Bushnell, Charles. W. Palmer, T. S. Payne; Jefferson, John T. Edgar; Michigan, Geo. L. Becker; Greencastle (Asbury), Thos.

Reagan, A. W. Reagan. The Bloomington (Indiana University) chapter was not represented.

The minutes of the Triennial Convention of 1842 were then read.

The following resolution was adopted. Resolved, T hat this Convention consider itself authorized to transact all the business of a Triennial Convention.

A general committee of one delegate from each chapter represented was then appointed to prepare an order of business for the Convention.

Committee: Miami, I. Little; Cincinnati, Stanley M at­ thews; Hudson, E. Bushnell; Michigan, G. L. Becker; Jef­ ferson, J. T. Edgar; Wabash, V. D. Collins, and Greencastle, Thos. Reagan. After the report of this Committee, the following resolutions were adopted. “ Resolved, That Art. II of the Constitution be amended by the addition of another section as follows: Sec. 2nd. There shall be a presiding chapter chosen at each Triennial Convention 25

26

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1847

with no extra legislative power, which shall be made the deposi­ tory of particular information in regard to each chapter, to whom all propositions requiring the actions of the Association shall be submitted and by whom the decision of the chapters shall be obtained and transmitted to the several chapters and which shall be the centre of all business correspondence. “ Resolved, That the Cincinnati, Athens and Harvard chapters be, and they are hereby, declared extinct, and that the names of the members of said chapters be transferred to the list of the Miami chapter. “ Resolved, That the Secretary of the Convention be in­ instructed to communicate to Mr. James M. Safford of Athens and Mr. Stanley Matthews of Cincinnati, information of the action of the Convention in relation to their respective chapters. “ Resolved, That the Miami chapter be the presiding chapter until the next Triennial Convention. “ Resolved, That Sec. 1 of Art. 6 of the Constitution be amended by adding the words ‘and monthly’ after the words ‘ list of its members.’ ” “ Resolved, That from and after the adjournment of this Convention the order of priority of chapters shall be as follows: “ Alpha— Miami chapter, Beta— Hudson chapter, Gamma— Transylvania chapter, Delta— Jefferson chapter, Epsilon— Princeton chapter, Zeta— Greencastle chapter, Eta— Bloomington chapter, Theta— Michigan chapter, Iota— Wabash chapter, Kappa— Williams chapter. “ Resolved, That the next Triennial Convention meet in Hudson, Ohio, on the first Thursday of September, 1848. “ Resolved, That a committee of two be appointed to prepare and forward an address on behalf of this Convention to the several chapters.”

Messrs. Geo. L. Becker and Chas. W. Palmer were appointed said committee. “ Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be tendered to the President, Vice-President, and Secretary for the able and faithful discharge of their duties.”

On motion, the Convention adjourned.

G e o . H o a d l e y , Jr., President.

I s a i a h L i t t l e , Vice-President.

THE M INU TES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1847

27

Although the correspondence between the chapters between 1842 and 1847 has been in great part preserved and the minutes of the then existing chapters are still accessible, yet no reason can be ascertained why the con­ vention appointed to be held in 1845 was not held nor why a special con­ vention was called in 1847. The opening clause of the minutes of the conven­ tion of 1847 throws no light on the subject. It says “pursuant to a previous arrangement, a convention of the Beta Theta Pi assembled.”

Between the sessions of the convention of 1842 and 1847, chapters had been established at Harvard, 1843 (Eta); Princeton, 1843 (Theta); Indiana Asbury University (the name of which was changed to De Pauw in later years), 1845 (Iota); Indiana University, 1845 (Kappa); The University of Michigan, 1845 (Lambda); and Wabash College, 1846 (Mu). The Williams chapter was established May 16th, 1847, two days after this convention, but it was evidently understood that it was to be established in the mean­ time.

The lack of any administrative centre for the fraternity and the conse­ quent lack of supervision of the chapters had resulted in the chapters at Cin­ cinnati College, Ohio University, and Harvard, becoming inactive. George Hoadley of the Harvard Chapter conceived the idea of transferring it to Yale where there were three members of the fraternity, but it was not done.

It is to be noted that this convention established the system of govern ” ment by a presiding chapter, choosing one of the undergraduate chapterg for that purpose. A weaker and more inefficient plan could not well hav been devised, although it was perfectly natural for undergraduates to con” ceive of and adopt it, and graduate control had not been thought of.

The convention of 1847 re-arranged the roll, declaring the chapters a* Cincinnati and Athens, Ohio, and Harvard, extinct, and giving the remainde1of the chapters the following designations: Alpha— Miami; Beta— Western Reserve; Gamma— Transylvania; Delta— Jefferson; Epsilon— Princeton; Zeta—-Indiana-Asbury; Eta— Indiana University; Theta— Michigan; Iota— Wabash; Kappa— Williams.

In reality, the chapters at Transylvania and Princeton were inactive, but the members of the convention did not know it.

#

^Ztinutes o f tl>e (TonvettUon o f IS 4 S TH E T R IE N N IA L CO N VEN TIO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI H ELD A T HUDSON, OHIO August 8, 1848 1 o’clock, P. M. The triennial Convention of the Beta Theta Pi assembled in accordance with the Constitution, and the following gentlemen were recognized as delegates: Beta (Western Reserve), E. Bushnell, Thos. Doggett, Joseph B. Merriam, Charles A. Norton, Charles W. Palmer, Charles R. Pierce, R. Sawyer, H. C. Gaylord, William H. Upson, Karl Ruger, S. D. Nutting, L. Bissel, J. G. Graham, G. E. Paine, H. E. Paine, Theo. S. Paine, Henry P. Sanford, Wm. S. Aumock, J. S. New­ berry, Wm. C. Turner; Theta (Michigan), S. D. Miller, Geo. L. Becker, W. C. Ransom, J. M. Walker; Kappa (Williams), A. P. Carpenter, R. W. Smith.

On motion of W. C. Ransom, C. R. Pierce was called to the chair as President pro tem. On motion of T. Doggett, W. C. Ransom was chosen Secretary. The President having welcomed the delegates from abroad in a short and appropriate manner, a delegate from each chapter was appointed to report officers for the permanent organization of the Convention, who reported the following as permanent officers of the Convention: C. R. Pierce, of the Hudson chapter, President; R. W. Smith, of the Williams chapter, Vice-President; W. C. Ransom of the Michigan chapter, Secretary; T. C. Paine, of the Hudson chapter, Assistant Secre­ tary.

The President having announced the Convention as ready for business, a proposition was made by C. W. Palmer that the Constitution be so amended so as to place some limitation upon the establishment of chapters, which was referred to a committee consisting of Messrs. Palmer, Miller, and Carpenter. The com­ mittee was instructed to report on Wednesday.

29

30

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1848

A proposition to publish a catalogue was referred to a com­ mittee consisting of Messrs. Bushnell, Carpenter and Ransom.

C. R. Pierce was instructed to invite Brother Geo. E. Pierce, President of Western Reserve College, to preside at the evening session of the Convention.

Convention adjourned until 7 o’clock, P. M. 7 o’clock, P. M. The Convention met, pursuant to adjournment. Brother Geo. E. Pierce in the chair. After some appropriate music, the Convention listened to a fine oration from Brother Halbert E. Paine of the Hudson chapter, after which the Convention adjourned until Wednesday, 9 o’clock, A. M. Wednesday, 9 o’clock, A. M. Convention was called to order by the President. The minutes of the two preceding meetings were read and approved.

An expression of thanks was voted to Brother H. E. Paine for his able address, and a copy solicited for publication. Messrs.

Gaylord, Smith and Ransom were instructed to inform Brother Paine of the action of the Convention.

The Committee on Limitation submitted a report, upon which the Convention went into a Committee of the Whole, and after a long but spirited discussion |the Committee of the Whole rose, and reported progress. The Convention then adjourned until 1 o’clock, P. M. 1 o’clock, P. M. Brother R. V. Moore appeared in the Convention, claiming a seat as a delegate from Danville (Centre College) chapter. His claim was presented, and he was allowed to take his seat as a regular delegate from a regularly established chapter of the Beta Theta Pi. The Convention again resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole upon the limitation of chapters, and the committee after discussion reported the following amendment to the Constitution in Article II, striking out the word “ places” and inserting “ colleges,” and “ unanimous” instead of “ twothirds,” the amendment making Art. II read as follows: “ This Association shall be composed of chapters located in such colleges as m ay possess the confidence of existing chapters manifested by an unanimous vote.”

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1848

A committee was appointed to draft a code of regulations to govern the chapters in the establishment of chapters, to be regarded as a standing resolution of the Triennial Convention, and not to be incorporated into the Constitution. H. E. Paine, Becker, Carpenter, and Moore constituted said committee.

The Convention then listened to a history of the Hudson chapter, by Bushnell; a history of the Williams chapter, by Carpenter; of Danville, by Moore.

On motion of W. C. Ransom, the Princeton and Transylvania chapters were declared defunct, and a list of the members trans­ ferred to those of the Jefferson and Danville chapters.

A committee consisting of T. C. Paine, Smith and Ransom were appointed to draft a document expressing the opinion of the Convention relative to the Iota chapter (Wabash).

The following section was added to Art. V II of the Constitution. “ Sec. 4. A special convention having all the powers of the Triennial Convention may be called by the presiding chapter, if deemed necessary by three-quarters of the existing chapters.”

Messrs. Becker, Aumock, Carpenter and Moore were ap­ pointed a committee to draft a general form of initiation for the Association.

The Convention then adjourned until 8 o’clock A. M., on Friday.

Friday, 8 o’clock A. M. Convention met pursuant to adjournment. The minutes of the last session were read and approved. The Convention then proceeded to elect a presiding chapter for the three ensuing years.

The choice was in favor of the Hudson chapter.

The Committee on Pledge reported an amendment, which was taken up for discussion. The report was referred to the Committee for Reconsideration, and Messrs. Ransom and Moore were added to the committee.

The Convention then passed a resolution recommending that as many chapters as possible should send delegates to the anni­ versary of the Williams chapter in 1849 and to that of the Michi­ gan chapter in 1850.

A committee of one was appointed from each chapter to draft a form of initiation based upon the report of the former com­

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1848

mittee, which report was accepted. Committee, H. E. Paine (Chairman), Becker, Carpenter, Moore and Pierce were added to the committee, with the understanding that they should report to the chairman within three months.

The Convention then resolved, “ that, from the adjournment of this Convention the order of the priority of chapters shall be as follows: 1, Alpha chapter, Miami University; 2, Beta, Western Re­ serve; 3, Gamma, Jefferson College; 4, Delta, Greencastle (De Pauw, then called Asbury); 5, Epsilon, Bloomington, (Indiana); 6, Zeta, Ann Arbor, Mich.; 7, Eta, Wabash College; 8, Theta, Williams College; 9, Iota, Danville, K y. (Centre College).”

The Convention then adjourned until 1 o’clock, P. M. 1 o’clock P. M. The Convention met. The Committee on Catalogue reported in favor of publishing a catalogue. The report was accepted and adopted.

The report of Committee on Pledge, being taken from the table, was amended in the first section by striking out the words “ signs and symbols.”

The Committee on By-Laws, having reported adversely, the By-Laws were referred to a committee who were to report a general system of By-Laws at the next Triennial Convention.

Committee: C. R. Pierce and E. Bushnell of the Hudson chapter, T. S. Blackmar of the Michigan chapter, Carpenter of the Williams chapter, and Moore of Danville are to report in the same manner as those appointed on the Committee on Initiation.

It was then decided that the next Triennial Convention be held at Jefferson College, Canonsburg, Pa., at such time in the year 1851 as the Jefferson chapter may select, provided that if such chapter should not deem it expedient to hold a convention, then the place should be transferred to the Michigan chapter.

The present condition of the Ann Arbor chapter rendered it necessary for the Convention to take some step to relieve it from its embarrassment, and in consideration thereof adopted the following resolution. “ Resolved by Beta Theta Pi in convention assembled, that

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1848

33

the Ann Arbor chapter of this Association is not dependent upon the University of Michigan for support, and therefore is not under the jurisdiction of the laws of th a t college.”

The Convention then passed a vote of thanks to the Hudson chapter for its kind entertainm ent of the delegates from abroad; also to the officers for the efficient m anner in which they dis­ charged their duties during the session of the Convention.

The President was then requested to return the acknowledg­ m ent of the Convention for the Hall in which the session had been held.

On motion, the Convention adjourned sine die.

C. R . P i e r c e , President.

W. C. R a n so m , Recorder.

T. C. P a i n e , Assistant Secretary.

In some of the copies of the minutes of this convention, the names of the chapters which the several delegates represented are incorrectly given, but they are correct in the foregoing copy.

Between the conventions of 1847 and 1848, the Lambda chapter was established at Centre College, Danville, Kentucky, and was represented in the convention by Robert Vance Moore, who had been a Beta at Miami and had founded the chapter at Centre.

The condition of the chapter at the University of Michigan referred to in the minutes was one arising from the enactment of anti-fraternity laws at the University forbidding the existence of secret societies among the stu­ dents. Previous to this convention, the constitution had provided that the fraternity should be composed of chapters located at places, which would of course permit the establishment of chapters not connected with any col­ lege. This convention did a very inconsistent thing. It amended the con­ stitution by striking out the word “places” and substituting “colleges,” there­ fore thus restricting the fraternity to colleges, and then it passed a resolution that as the chapter at the University of Michigan was not solely dependent on the University for membership, it was outside of the jurisdiction of the college authorities. If the convention had let the constitution alone, its position would have been logical; as it was, it was foolish.

It will be noted above that the convention again changed the names on the chapter roll, dropping out Princeton and Transylvania from the active list.

This convention was held in a college town, namely, at Hudson, Ohio, and the rival fraternity of Alpha Delta Phi was invited to attend its public exercises, and did so. So far as we know, this is the first inter-fratemity event of which there is any record.

r

34

THE M IN U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1848

George E. Pierce, who presided at the Tuesday evening session of the convention, was a graduate of Yale and an honorary member of the Western Reserve chapter in which his sons were members. A t that date it certainly was a remarkable thing for a college president to thus publicly evince his interest in a college fraternity.

The resolution recommending that Betas from other chapters should attend the anniversary celebrations of two chapters was a forerunner of the present practice of our chapters in sending representatives to each other’s initiation ceremonies as usually there were initiations at the anniversaries referred to.

^Ztinutes o f tl)e (Tonvention o f 1851 PR O CE ED IN G S OF TH E T R IE N N IA L C O N V EN TIO N H ELD IN A R T H U R ’S HALL, PITTSBU RG H , August 7, 1851 Thursday, 7 o’clock, P. M. The Triennial Convention of the Beta Theta Pi met in accordance with the Constitution and was opened by an eloquent address from our fellow member, Jacob Winters, A. M., of the Gamma chapter.

A large number of invited guests were present, who during the exercises evinced their gratification by the most profound attention.

The following gentlemen were present as delegates: Rollin A. Sawyer, Beta; D. Taylor, Beta; R. W. Smith, Beta;* A. M. Fitch, Beta; Henry S. Martin, Gamma; W. H. Pyle, Gamma; Henry M. Smith, Gamma; A. D. Hepburn, Gamma; G. W. Clarke, Gamma; F. L. Stewart, Gamma; J. M. Clarke, Gamma; Rush Clark, Gamma; J. P. Sterrett, Gamma; J. P. Penny, Gamma; Levi Penny, Gamma; D. R. Stevenson, Gamma; H. Quail, Gamma; M. S. Quay, Gamma; Jno. Weaver, Gamma; Jacob Winters, Gamma; I. F. Kirkpatrick, Gamma; R. Letherman, Gamma; Norton McGiffin, Gamma; A. M. Reid, Gamma. J Friday, August 8, 1851 Convention met and was organized by electing H. P* Martin, of Gamma chapter, President, and D. R. Stevenson, Secretary. On motion, Messrs. Winters and Kirkpatrick were granted optional attendance during the sitting of the Convention.

A committee of three, composed of Messrs. Sawyer, R. W. Smith, and H. M. Smith, was appointed to report permanent officers for the Convention.

The following gentlemen were reported as officers: H. P. Martin, of Gamma chapter, President; * This is evidently a misprint for “ Theta.” The only R . W . Smith in the fraternity was a member of the Williams chapter then called Theta. t Beta was Western Reserve, Gamma was Jefferson.

35

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

Rollin A. Sawyer, of B eta chapter, Vice-President, and a vacancy to be filled by a delegate from some of the other chapters. Secre­ taries, A. M. Fitch, of B eta chapter, and D. R. Stevenson, of Gamma chapter. The report was subm itted to the Convention and on motion was adopted. The President upon taking his chair delivered a short and appropriate address welcoming the dele­ gates from abroad.

On motion, “ Resolved, T hat the thanks of the Convention be tendered to Brother W inters for his oration of last evening, and th a t a copy of the same be solicited for publication.” Messrs.

Sterrett, Sawyer, and G. W. Clark were appointed a committee to wait on Brother W inters and solicit a copy of the oration.

The President, Mr. M artin, read a report in reference to the situation of the different chapters, offering some suggestions in regard to the proceedings of the Conventions, etc. On motion, the report was handed to a committee of three. Messrs. I. P. Penny, R. W. Smith, and Jno. Weaver were appointed on said committee.

They reported th a t the President’s report will be disposed of in the following manner, v iz: Committee on Constitution and By-Laws, George W. Clark, D. Taylor, and Hudson Quail.

Committee on Chapters, A. D. Hepburn, H. M. Smith, and R. A. Sawyer.

Committee on Initiation, John Weaver, R. W. Smith, W.H. Pyle.

Committee on Catalogue and Periodical, J. P. Penny, F. L. Stewart, and R. Letherman.

The Committee on Initiation subm itted the following report: T h at th e committee deem it unnecessary and inexpedient for the Convention to adopt a general form of initiation to be used by all the chapters, as the varied circumstances of the several chap­ ters, and the character of the members to be initiated, might ren­ der it desirable to modify the form of initiation to suit the circumstances of th e case.

On motion, “Resolved, T h at the Convention earnestly recom­ mend each chapter to adopt some suitable form of initiation to be used a t the admission of members, to be modified to suit the circumstances of the particular case.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

37

“ Resolved, That the members present record their names upon a roll provided for that purpose.”

On motion, Convention adjourned to meet at 7 o’clock P.M .

H . S . M a r t i n , President.

D . R. Stevenson,

A. M. F i t c h , Secretaries.

A r t h u r ’s H a l l , Friday, 7 o’clock P. M.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment. The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted.

The Committee on Constitution and By-Laws submitted the following report: The committee would suggest the propriety of adding the following clause to the Constitution as a part of the pledge of admission, to wit: “ I solemnly promise that if at any time my connection with the Beta Theta Pi be dissolved, I will never reveal anything of the nature, objects or business of the Association.”

Your committee would further report that Article X of the Constitution provides that each chapter shall make its own ByLaws and such other regulations as may be deemed necessary, provided that they conflict with no article in the Constitution, and therefore they are of opinion that no change can be made with regard to the By-Laws so long as that article of the Constitution is in existence. On motion the report was adopted.

Mr. Letherman being absent, Mr. J. H. Clark was substi­ tuted on the Committee on Catalogue and Periodical.

Messrs. R. W. Smith and H. Quail obtained optional attend­ ance.

The Committee on Catalogue and Periodical submitted the following report: The last Convention having recommended the publication of a catalogue, and directed the manner in which the publication should be made, the committee feel some delicacy in reporting anything further upon this subject, but being fully impressed with the necessity for some speedy action and not being, aware that anything has been done to carry out the recommen­ dation of the former Convention, they would respectfully report the following for the action of the Convention, viz:— That a

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

catalogue of the members of the Association should be published as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made, in a style which shall compare favorably with those of other similar socie­ ties, the frontispiece to be emblematical of the motto of the society. The figures representing the sentiments of |the motto standing apart, a scroll containing the initials of the motto, and above the figures, in a cluster or wreath, the symbols or charac­ ters representing the chapters. After the frontispiece, in order of their dates, designs furnished by each of the chapters, with appropriate mottoes, and containing the character representing the chapter itself, and to be engraved or illustrated in a style to correspond with the frontispiece. The name of each member in alphabetical order, with the profession and residence annexed, to follow the designs, the location of the chapter to which each indi­ vidual belongs to be indicated by a letter of the English alphabet — the first letter representing the oldest chapter, etc. The date of initiation to be represented by Greek characters— Alpha for the first year of the organization, viz:— 1839, Beta 1840, etc., etc.

The committee would further report that the Convention should assign to the Beta chapter the duty of collecting such contribu­ tions from the members as they are willing to give to aid the publication, and that the Presiding Chapter be required to arrange and superintend the publication of the catalogue, and that the number to be printed be equal to the number of members of the Association.

On motion, “ Resolved, That the report be adopted.m The Committee on Catalogue and Periodical reported fur­ ther in reference to establishing a periodical.

The committee are of opinion that the interests of the Asso­ ciation would be greatly furthered and its permanence secured by the publication of a periodical in the style of the best three-dollar monthlies, under the patronage of the Association, and edited by one of the members who should receive sufficient compensation to enable him to devote all of his attention to that duty; but while the committee are fully impressed with the importance and utility of such a publication, on account of the small number of chapters represented in the Convention, they deem it inexpedient to report any definite plan of publication, and would recommend as a preliminary to future action, that the recorder of the presid­

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

39

ing chapter be required to correspond with the members for the purpose of ascertaining whether any one can be procured to act as editor of such publication, and to report to the next Convention.

On motion, “ Resolved, That the report be adopted.”

Convention adjourned to meet to-morrow morning at 8 o’clock.

H. S. M a r t i n , President, A. M. F i t c h , D. R. S t e v e n s o n , Secretaries.

Saturday morning, August 9, 1851.

Convention met. The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. The Committee on Constitution and By-Laws submitted the following report in reference to a sign of recogni­ tion. “ The committee are of the opinion, for reasons already known to the Convention, that some sign of recognition more than those already used should be used by the brethren of this order.

Your committee, therefore, recommend that a sign of recognition be used as follows.......................................................... ” This report was adopted.

The Committee on Chapters reported that, in the opinion of the committee, the Convention should declare the chapters at Williams College, Brown University, Wabash College, and Indiana University, defunct, and at the same time transfer the members of the said chapters to the Hudson (Beta) chapter.

That the chapters at Ann Arbor and Oxford (Miami) be suffered to remain in statu quo until further developments are made respecting them. Also, in view of the recent breach upon our Association, we would suggest the propriety of a judicious extension of Beta Theta Pi, mainly at the west.

Further, that a history of each chapter be presented at each Triennial Convention, and that these histories, together with the correspondence between the chapters, answering both the spirit and letter of the Constitution, be substituted for the semi-annual report. The committee recommends to all the chapters to en­ trust the office of recorder to such men only as they would wish to stand as their representatives, and to secure a just representation.

40

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

That the recorder be required to furnish his chapter a copy of all official letters written by him, registered in proper form, and that communications from the other chapters be so preserved that they may be convenient for reference. The committee would also recommend to the presiding chapter the specification of its duties contained in that article of the minutes of the special con­ vention held at Cincinnati which created the office. On motion the report was adopted.

Mr. G. W. Clark was granted optional attendance during the further sitting of the Convention.

On motion, resolved, “ That the next Triennial Convention be held in the year 1854, at such time and place as the Delta Chapter may direct, and in case it be unable to hold it, it be trans­ ferred to Centre College, Danville, Ky. A committee was then appointed to prepare an address to the chapters not represented in Convention. J. H. Clark, R. A. Sawyer, a n d ------were appointed on said committee.

On motion, “ Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention be extended to D. K. Miller, proprietor of the St. Charles Hotel, for his kind attention, and that a committee on behalf of the Convention be appointed to give him a puff in the city papers.”

Mr. I. P. Penny was appointed said committee.

The committee to solicit a copy of Brother Winters’ address for publication were instructed to superintend its publication, and to collect funds necessary for the purpose, and were clothed with discretionary powers in respect to the number of copies to be printed, expenses, etc., etc.

On motion, “ Resolved, T h at the Gamma chapter act as presiding chapter for the next three years.”

After the most perfect unanim ity on p art of the members during the sitting of the Convention, its proceedings were now brought to a close.

On motion, the Convention adjourned sine die.

H e n r y S. M a r t i n , President,

A. M. F i t c h , D. R. S t e v e n s o n , Secretaries.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1851

41

Between the Conventions of 1848 and 1851, the following chapters were established: Kappa— Brown University, May 8th, 1849; and Lambda— Hampden-Sidney College, April 24th, 1850. In the meantime, the chapters at Wabash and Indiana had become extinct through the operation of anti­ fraternity laws.

In the early part of 1851, the newly created Brown Chapter conceived the idea of deserting the fraternity and reviving at Brown the then inactive chapter of Alpha Delta Phi. Having been particularly intimate with the members of the Williams chapter, they induced the Williams chapter to join in the movement with them, and in April the Brown chapter and in July the Williams chapter resigned from Beta Theta Pi and accepted charters from Alpha Delta Phi. This was mainly the work of Melanchthon Storrs and Delano Alexander Goddard who had been initiated into Beta Theta Pi at Brown and had gone to Yale and joined Alpha Delta Phi there, the latter being then a junior class society at Yale.

The members of the Brown chapter who thus deserted the fraternity were Samuel P. Bates, Hamilton B. Staples, and Asa M. Williams, ’51; Samuel Brooks, Nathan W. Moore, Elijah Perry, ’52; Osborn E. Bright, Edward T. Saswell, and Francis M. McAllister, ’53; Henry A. Allen, Frank W. Cheney, Walter Hillman, Horatio N. Slater and Thomas Vernon, '54.

The Alpha Delta Phi catalogue of 1899 says of these men: “ The high resolves inspired, the noble thoughts cherished, the pure and lasting friend­ ships formed, have made fellowship in Alpha Delta Phi * * * the choicest treasure of College days.”

The men at Williams were George E. Clark, Samuel B. Goodale, and George Mooar, ’51; John S. Bachelder, John W. Dickinson, Henry N. Hazeltine, Arthur L. Perry and Charles Perry, ’52; Erastus N. Bates, Charles F. Gilson, Robert H. Williamson, ’53; Charles R. Bliss, James R. Dewey, Henry M. Group and Abbott E. Kittredge, ’54. George E. Clark was initiated at Brown and had transferred to Williams.

Leonard A. Hendrick of the Williams Chapter, in the class of ’50, had emigrated to Yale College before his graduation, and had become a member of Alpha Delta Phi, which was then a junior society at Yale, and retained his membership in Beta Theta Pi.

When this convention met, the only active chapters of the fraternity were Western Reserve, Jefferson, Indiana-Asbury, Centre and HampdenSidney, as the chapters at Miami and the University of Michigan were tem­ porarily inactive due to the operation of anti-fraternity laws.

This convention was the first convention to appoint a regular series of committees, and although they were not standing committees at that time, this was the beginning of the system thereafter employed in referring matters presented to the convention for action, to stated committees for consideration and report.

Unites of t\)d (TonventiOR of t$54 PR O CE ED IN G S

OF TH E

T R IE N N IA L

CO N VEN TIO N

OF TH E “ B E T A T H E T A P I ” H ELD IN C IN C IN N A T I, OHIO August 16 and 17, 1854 Names of delegates: *Alpha, Wm. J. Beatty, D. W. McClung, Geo. K. Clarke, Albert S. Berry, John I. Glenn; Beta, Hon. Geo. Hoadley; Gamma, Wm. E. Hunt; Delta, Rev. Wm. M. Daily, F. R. Dorman, Mark L. De Motte, Ira G. Grover, Jno. S. Tarkington; Epsilon, James F. McKee, Sami. McKee, Alex. Buckner, Thomas H. Urmston, B. F. Blackburn; Iota, Harry Keigwin; Kappa, E. W. Mulliken.

The organization of the Convention was effected by calling G. K. Clarke to the chair and requesting D. W. McClung to act as Secretary.

Immediately thereafter an election for permanent officers was entered into and resulted as follows: President, Geo. K. Clarke; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Hoadley, Dorman, Mulliken, McKee, DeMotte and McClung; Secretaries, T. H. Urmston and Wm. E. Hunt.

The recent decease of Brother R. Vance Moore of Epsilon chapter having been announced by Brother Urmston, a committee of three— Urmston, McClung and McKee, J. F.— was appointed to prepare resolutions expressive of the feelings of the Association with respect to our loss of Brother Moore.

Messrs. McClung, Dorman and McKee were appointed the usual Committee on Constitution.

Messrs. Hunt, Beatty and Buckner, a Committee on Catlogue and Periodical.

Messrs. Clark, Urmston and Hunt, a Committee on Chap-ters. * Alpha was Miami; Beta, Western Reserve; Gamma, Jefferson; Epsilon, Centre; Iota Hanover; and Kappa, Ohio.

43

44

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

Messrs. Dorman, Glenn and Berry, a Committee to make arrangements for the delivery of the address to the Convention.

The Convention then adjourned, with a view to committee meetings, until Thursday morning.

Thursday, August 17.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment.

Several additional delegates appeared, and their names were enrolled.

The reports of all the committees previously appointed were read and laid upon the table.

The Convention then took a recess for dinner, after which the report of the Committee to prepare Resolutions in view of Brother Moore’s death was taken from the table, adopted, and ordered to be published in certain newspapers.

The report of the Committee on Constitution was next taken from the table, and after considerable discussion and amendment, adopted, and the changes in our Constitution therein proposed, declared to be in full force as far as the action of the Convention can make them so. This report is as follows: “ The Committee on Constitution report that they have but few changes to propose. They earnestly recommend the faithful observance of all the requirements of the present Constitution, confident that its provisions are excellent and well adapted to promote the interests of our Association. They feel called upon at this time especially to urge a more strict compliance with that article of the Constitution requiring each chapter to make out and transmit to every other chapter a semi-annual report of its condition and prospects. An almost universal and reckless regard of this very important requirement for several years past has had a very injurious effect upon the Association, keeping chapters in ignorance of each other’s condition and leading to that unnatural alienation and estrangement of feeling necessarily consequent upon wide separation without any interchange of thought and feeling.

The following are the amendments to the Constitution now recommended by your committee.

1 st. That Art. 7, requiring each chapter to celebrate the anniversary of its foundation by an oration, etc., etc., be changed so as to read:

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

45

“ Each chapter shall be charged to make regulations for itself respecting the celebration of the anniversary of its founda­ tion.”

The reasons for these proposed changes are, that it is often inexpedient and sometimes almost impossible for a chapter to celebrate its anniversary in any way, and when this is determined upon, each chapter is the best guide of the exercises proper on such an occasion.

2nd. That “ Biennial” be substituted for “ Triennial” wherever the word occurs in the Constitution.

The advantages claimed for Biennial over Triennial conven­ tions, are, that the business of the Association can thus be better attended to and that its social advantages will thus be increased and rendered more available.

3rd. That to Art. 10 there be added this section: “ Each chapter shall send at least one delegate to each Con­ vention.”

This report having been adopted, it was ordered that— “ Whereas from the statements of delegates there seem to be some discrepancies between the copies of the Constitution in possession of the different chapters, the Recorder of Alpha chapter shall, as soon as possible, after the adjournment of this Convention, transmit to the Recorder of the presiding chapter, a correct copy of the Constitution, modifying the original draft by the action of the several conventions up to this time, and the presiding chapter shall furnish a correct copy to all the other chapters of the Association.”

After considerable discussion upon the subject, a committee of three was appointed to prepare three several forms of initiation and present the same to the next Convention with a view to the adoption of a general initiative ceremony for our Association, to be used by all the chapters. Rev. Prof. Wm. M. Scott, Centre College, Danville, K y., Hon. Schuyler Colfax, South Bend, Ind., and Hon. Geo. Hoadley, Cincinnati, Ohio, constitute this committee. The Secretaries of the Convention are instructed to inform these gentlemen of this action of the Convention.

The report of Committee on Catalogue and Periodical was next considered and adopted. It is as follows: ‘ ‘ The Committee on Catalogue and Periodical report that in

46

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

view of the action of preceding conventions they feel great deli­ cacy in taking any other action at this time than reporting prog­ ress and recommending the vigorous prosecution of the plan of publication adopted by the last Convention. But having become fully satisfied by reports from the chapters that said plan of publi­ cation is impracticable, they feel necessitated to give the whole subject revision and fresh examination. It seems to be the almost unanimous wish that a catalogue of our Association shall be speedily published. It is desired that it be elegant in style but not extravagant in cost, something superior to similar publications, and yet not an impressive monument of vain glory and sinful pride. In view, therefore, of all the information had by your committee they recommend the publication of a catalogue and propose the following plan as best adapted to the character and circumstances of the Association at large. “ The catalogue shall consist of: “ 1 st. An emblematical illustrated title page, engraved in the highest style of art, composed of the figures illustrating by their position and expression the sentiments of the motto----------with such accompaniments as are in good taste and expressive of the objects of the Association— the Greek letters Beta Theta Pi in bold relief above the design, and the date of the organization of four Association in small Greek characters just beneath the design. ‘ ‘ 2nd. An alphabetical list of all the members in good stand­ ing, giving their names, occupations, present residences, the chapters designated by the Greek name to which they belonged in the first instance, and the year of the Association in which they became members designated by Greek letters thus: A for the first year, B for the second, etc. For example, in the case of Judge Hoadley, a member of the Beta chapter, it will be Geo. Hoadley.............. Law yer...............Cincinnati, O ...............B In the case of defunct chapters their last designation is to be given, with a prime mark, thus ('). For example, Jacob Burnett: Jacob Burnett, J r ............ Law yer.............Cincinnati, O. ...........B' The named of deceased members to be printed in italics. “ B y the last Convention, the duty of collecting funds for the publication of a catalogue was assigned to the Beta chapter. The ■condition of Beta not being favorable for this work, it was trans­ ferred to Gamma, the presiding chapter, which also, by action of

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

47

the same Convention, had to collect and arrange the matter for the catalogue. By the report from that chapter, your committee learn that they have labored diligently in their appointed work, having collected and arranged much of the matter for the cata­ logue and that up to this time about two hundred dollars have been paid in, and some thirty or fifty more are pledged. Your committee are inclined to believe that the sum collected and collectible (say $250.00) is sufficient to publish the catalogue in the style proposed in the preceding plan, and they now recom­ mend that the money pledges and matter for the catalogue be placed in the hands of Alpha Chapter, with instructions, 1st— To accomplish its publication at the earliest possible date; 2nd— To publish not less than one thousand copies; 3rd— To secure the best publication possible with this amount of money in their hands; 4th— To distribute according to directions of each chap­ ter, giving to each a number proportioned to its whole number of members. “ Your committee further report th at, though fully alive to the great importance and benefits of a periodical under the con­ trol, and devoted to the interests of, the Association, they are con­ vinced of the present inexpediency, if not impracticability, of establishing and sustaining it and, therefore, recommend th a t no further action be now taken in the m atter.”

The report of the Committee on Chapters was then taken from the table, considered and adopted. It is as follows: “ Since the last Convention, two new chapters of the Beta Theta Pi have been constituted, one in Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, the other in Hanover College, South Hanover, Ind. Your committee have also the pleasure of announcing the resuscitation of two chapters, the one defunct, and the other nearly so when the last Convention was in session. One at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, the other at Michigan University, Ann Arbor, Mich. The chapter at Hudson we are informed is now in a better condition than for some time past and with fair prospects. Several applications for new chapters are now under consideration, and will probably be soon granted. A t this time there are eleven duly constituted and properly organized chap­ ters of the Beta Theta Pi. “ Some difficulty having arisen relative to the proper designa­

48

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

tion of the various chapters in consequence of the revival of some either virtually or actually defunct, and their claim for their old designation: your committee recommend that hereafter when a chapter is declared by a Convention defunct, it thereby loses its name and seal b u t can be revived at any time by the action of any one chapter of the Association. To obviate present difficulty your committee recommend th a t the designation of the several chapters be as follows: A lpha— Miami U niversity....................... Oxford, Ohio B eta....... W estern Reserve College............ Hudson, Ohio Gamma. Jefferson College......................... Canonsburg, Pa. D e lta .. . . Indiana-Asbury University....... Greencastle, Ind. E psilon. . Centre College............................. Danville, Ky. Z e ta ........Hampden-Sidney College..........Hampden-Sidney, Va. E t a ......... N orth Carolina U niversity........ Chapel Hill, N. C. T h e ta .. . . Ohio Wesleyan U niversity........ Delaware, Ohio I o ta ........ Hanover College.......................... South Hanover, Ind. K a p p a .. .Ohio U niversity...........................Athens, Ohio L am bda.. Michigan U niversity... .............Ann Arbor, Mich. “ Y our committee, in cpnclusion, congratulate you, and with reason, they think, on the recent history, present condition and prospects of the Association. Since the last Convention every step has been onward. You are not called upon at this time to lam ent the demise of a single chapter, b u t are privileged to re­ joice over two new born and two raised from the dead. H ar­ mony and good feeling prevail throughout the Association, with the exception of Zeta, E ta, and T heta (which in this m atter seem very culpable). All the chapters keep up a regular and frequent correspondence. We have reason to believe th a t all promote the interests and a t least partially, in their respective spheres, accom­ plish the ends of the Association, now in a highly prosperous condition and with brighter prospects than ever before appeared in its horizon.”

The Committee of Arrangements reported th a t the expected orator of the Convention had failed to appear. The report was accepted and the committee discharged.

The D elta C hapter a t Indiana-Asbury University was declared the presiding chapter, until the next Convention.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1854

49

The Epsilon chapter— with Zeta as alternate— is to make the arrangements for the next Convention. The Gamma and Epsilon chapters are instructed to transmit, as soon as possible, copies of the proceedings of the Convention to the other chapters.

Having accomplished the business before it, by a very brief, yet very busy and exceedingly pleasant session, the Convention adjourned, Thursday, August 17th, at 5 o’clock, P. M., sine die.

G e o . K . C l a r k e , President.

T. N. U r m s t o n , W m . E. H u n t , Secretaries.

The convention of 1851 had not formally rearranged the names of the chapters, but between 1851 and 1854, when chapters were established, the names of the chapters then inactive were completely disregarded. In April, 1852, the Miami chapter was revived. April 28th, 1852, a chapter was es­ tablished at the University of North Carolina and called Eta; in October, 1852, a chapter was established at Hanover College and called Iota; and in April, 1853, one was established at Ohio Wesleyan University and called Theta, and the chapter at Ohio University and the University of Michigan were revived in 1854, and called^ Kappa and Lambda respectively.

A t this convention, the system of committees was continued and be­ came customary.

The names of the chapters decided on at this convention remained un­ changed for many years.

M linutes o f t^e Convention, o f 1856 OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI ASSOCIATION A T LOUISVILLE, K Y .

August 13-15, 1856.

A t 2 o’clock P. M., delegates of the Beta Theta Pi met at the “ Owen House,” and on motion D. W. McClung was called to the chair, and H. Keigwin appointed Secretary.

Names of delegates in Convention: Alpha, I. M. Hughes, D. W. McClung, J. A. Battle, T. H. Rogers and John Woods; Gamma, J. P. Houston and Wm. McGregor; Delta, A. D. Lynch, J. Howard and Rev. B. F. Crary; Epsilon, J. F. McKee, Sami.

McKee, A. W. Irvine and H. B. Boude; Eta, J. E. Lindsay; Theta, Chas. Parrot and J. A. Hamilton; Iota, Wm. I. Craddock, J. A. Cooper, C. A. Johnson, H. Keigwin, Alex. Hunter, J. K. Patter­ son, W. K. Patterson, G. W. McCauley, B. K. Smoot, J. E. Rankin, and H. C. Warren; Kappa, Rev. J. P. Safford; Mu, S. C. Love; Nu, J. W. Hughes; Pi, W. Evans.

On motion, the President appointed a committee of one from each chapter to report on the Constitution, composed of Brothers Rogers, Houston, Lynch, Lindsay, Parrot, Smoot, I. W. Hughes, Evans, S. McKee and Love. On motion a committee of three— consisting of I. M. Hughes, Alex. Hunter, and J. K. Patterson— was appointed to draw up a suitable mode of initiation. Also Brothers Rankin, Warren, and Howard were appointed a com­ mittee to report on chapters and the condition of the organiza­ tion. “ Resolved, That the Committee on Constitution be in­ structed to include the addition to the list of officers of a Record­ ing Secretary in the proposed amendment to the Constitution.”

Adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock this evening.

8 o’clock, P. M. Convention met, pursuant to adjournment, and was called to order by the President, Brother McClung. The Secretary 5i

52

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

being absent, Brother H. C. W arren was appointed to fill his place pro tem. “ Resolved, T h at a committee of four be appointed to inquire into the expediency and practicability of having a Beta festival and having our address at th a t tim e.”

Brothers Boude, W arren, H unter and Lindsay were appointed said committee. “ Resolved, T h at a committee of three be appointed to report on catalogue and periodical, and th a t the President of the Con­ vention be the chairman thereof.” Brothers McGregor and Rogers were appointed the other members of the committee.

On motion, the house resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole to confer and inquire in relation to the condition, pros­ pects, etc., of the order. Brother J. L. McKee presented a. plausible and well digested plan in relation to a periodical, and on its feasibility, he and several others expatiated with much interest. “ Resolved, T h at we consider ‘P utnam ’s M agazine’ second to none in the U nited States.”

On motion, committee rose.

Adjourned to meet at 9 o’clock to-morrow morning.

O d d F e l l o w s H a l l , A. M., August 14, 9 :30.

The fine-looking, intelligent and dignified body of Greeks; convened pursuant to adjournment in Odd Fellows Hall, and were called to order by the President.

On motion, the Committee on Festival was heard. It reported as follows: “ To the members of the Convention:— Your Committee on Festival do most heartily and unanimously recommend that the Convention as a body hold no festival.” — H e n r y B . B o u d e , Chairman of Committee.

The report was adopted and the committee discharged.

Some discussion then arose with regard to the proper time for hearing the address. “ Whereas, the address was prepared for a popular audience, and only a small portion of it is applicable to the Association, therefore Resolved, That at 3 o’clock this-

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

53

afternoon the House resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole, at which time the address will be delivered.”

On motion, “ Resolved, That any member of the Convention be allowed to invite as many friends as he may deem proper.

Resolved, That a committee be appointed to wait upon and invite the editorial corps and their dignitaries of the city.”

Committee, Brothers Hamilton, Warren and Boude.

The Committee on Constitution submitted part of their report, viz:— “ That they recommend to the Convention the institution of a secondary badge in the form of a watch key, and the appointment of a committee to effect the same.”

A motion was then carried to appoint a committee to report to the Convention some suitable secondary badge. Committee, Brothers McGregor, Craddock, and Woods. “ Resolved, That three secretaries be appointed from the presiding chapter, whose duty it shall be to copy the proceedings of the Convention and send a copy to each chapter not repre­ sented therein. Committee, Brothers Irwin, Van B. Carter, and Boude. “ Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and send an address to those chapters not represented in this Con­ vention.” Committee, Brothers Patterson, Johnson and Rankin.

The Committee on Chapters and the condition of the organi­ zation presented a report which was on motion received, but after some desultory remarks on one objectionable point, it was on motion referred back to the Committee for Correction.

The Committee on Initiation then reported through the chairman at considerable length. The report was on motion received. But many objections being urged against it on account of the inexpediency of practising a mode so formal,— so very binding, etc., and after considerable discussion as to the propriety of conventions prescribing any ceremony at all, in addition to what the Constitution already contains, it was “ Resolved, That the report be referred to the Committee on Constitution.”

The Committee on Catalogue and Periodical reported verbally and were granted time to make out a written report.

Adjourned to meet at 2 P. M.

-54

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

2 o’clock P. M. The delegates convened at Odd Fellows Hall, and were called to order by Brother S. McKee. The report of Committee on Secondary Badge was heard and on motion received. After some discussion as to its adoption, action on it was postponed indefinitely, the time having arrived for the regular business of the evening, the Address.

On motion, a recess of fifteen minutes was granted to give the audience tim e to assemble. Brother McKee then favored the Convention with a sound, chaste, and eloquent address on the subject, “ Disregard of Moral Principle Detrim ental to the Best Interests of the C ountry.”

The House now being in Committee of the Whole, the dele­ gates of the different chapters reported on the conditions and prospects of their respective chapters, their mode of proceedings a t meetings, exercises, state of feeling among members, etc., etc.

These remarks were fraught with interest, wit and humor, and gave undoubted indications of the highly flourishing condition of the organization and the perfect unanim ity of sentiment th at reigns throughout the chapters generally. Io ta appears to be the only chapter not in a flourishing condition, which arises from the fact of their having been overcome by the underhand workings of the overwhelming opposition last year from the President of the college and other barbarians. “ Resolved, T h at a committee of three be appointed to super­ intend the publication of Brother J. L. McKee’s address. Bro­ thers Boude, Yates and H enry were appointed. A vote of thanks was tendered to Mrs. K ate H unter for the production of the B eta waltz.

On motion, the consideration of the Constitution was made the special order of business for to-morrow morning.

Moved and carried, to adjourn to meet this evening a t 8 o ’clock a t the “ Owen House,” and Brother Johnson was ap­ pointed to procure a room for the meeting.

8 o’clock P. M., O w e n H o u s e .

The delegates convened at the appointed hour and were called to order by the chairman.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

55

Moved that Johnson and Irwin be appointed to collect funds from the delegates to defray contingent expenses. “ Resolved, That all surplus funds be placed in the hands of Brother McClung to assist in defraying the expenses of publish­ ing Brother M cKee’s address.”

The report of Committee on Catalogue and Periodical was heard, and on motion received and adopted. It is as follows: “ Your Committee on Catalogue and Periodical submit the following report:— A t the last Convention the whole control of the catalogue and its publication was confided to the Alpha chapter. Alpha received at this time from Gamma, two hundred and three dollars. The interest, before this was used, increased it to two hundred and six dollars. About one hundred dollars was subsequently contributed, and, in addition to this, thirty-five dollars was advanced by one member of Alpha. This has not been refunded. Your committee recommend that the Convention call the attention of chapters to this, and order some means of discharging the debt. B y examining the catalogues and compar­ ing them with the plan ordered by the last Convention it will be seen that in almost every particular the instruction has been departed from. The reasons are these: The instructions were found so very inconvenient or so palpably inexpedient that Alpha assumed the responsibility of superseding them.

With regard to the periodical it is recommended that the project of an independent magazine be abandoned, and that the Convention appoint a committee to endeavor to obtain on some terms a claim on the columns of some good magazine so that articles worthy of publication may appear in it. D. W. McClung, Chairman, Committee. “ Resolved, That a committee be appointed to make all arrangements in regard to a periodical, and report the same to the Epsilon chapter.” Committee, Brothers J. L. McKee, Beattie and Matthews. “ Resolved, That the collection of the deficit on catalogues be intrusted to Alpha, who is hereby empowered to make the due assessment on each chapter.”

The Committee on Secondary Badge submitted a report which was received and adopted as follows: “ Your committee report that it is inexpedient for the Convention to adopt a second­

56

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

ary badge. They however recommend its adoption, and further recommend that the Alpha Chapter— consulting with all the other chapters— shall adopt such a badge as she may think proper.

They would also suggest that the badge consist of a watch key with the design of the present badge engraved thereon.” Mc­ Gregor, Craddock and Woods, Committee. “ Resolved, That the Convention recommend to each chap­ ter that it keep in its archives a catalogue in which the names of all members entering the Association shall be added to the list of chapter introducing them.” The report of the Committee on Chapters was then heard, received, amended and adopted as follows: R E PO R T OF TH E C O M M ITT E E ON CH APTER S “ Since the last Convention we have the pleasure of reporting that six new chapters of the Beta Theta Pi have been established, viz: M u ....... . Cumberland U niversity.... . . . . Lebanon, Tenn.

N u ........ .Washington College........... . . . .Washington, Pa. X i ......... . Knox College...................... . . . .Galesburg, 111.

Omicron .University of Virginia........ . . . . Charlottesville, Va P i......... . Indiana University............. . . . . Bloomington, Ind. Rho. .. . .Washington College........... . . . .Lexington, Va. We may add that two or three others are under contempla­ tion, viz:— Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind.; University of Nashville, Nashville, Tenn.; and Illinois College, Jacksonville, 111. “ No defunct chapters were resuscitated. Our chapter at Hudson, Ohio, we are sorry to relate has but one member in college, but they do not wish to be considered defunct. There is strong probability that new life will be infused next fall. Thus we are happy to state that there are seventeen properly constituted and duly organized chapters of your Association. These are generally or universally flourishing finely, though, as you are well aware, often meeting with strong opposition in one sense, but owing to the mental imbecility of the opposers, they have invar­ iably succeeded in riding the storm, still bearing the banner of * The Committee did not seem to know that Pi at Indiana had been originally established in 1845 and became inactive in 1849, and that this was a revival.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

57

Beta Theta Pi far above the reach of the greatest barbarian exertions. Still they ride safely on, all having cheering prospects.

In relation to Iota, we would say, that neither from fear, necessity, nor superiority, but that they may find foemen worthy of their steel, they have all (save one valiant standard bearer) concluded to seek another battle ground. Though it is the anxious expecta­ tion and constant hope of all that— should the college become worthy of it— Iota chapter, subsiding into secrecy, will again take the stand among the brave, as true a champion as at present.

In consideration of the question with regard to the resusci­ tation of chapters actually or virtually defunct, these, when thus declared, lose their title and seal and cannot again be revived without the usual and constitutional procedure of organizing new chapters. But until they have been positively thus declared dead, they shall retain their name and seal and be subject to revival by any one chapter of the Association. Most cordially do we welcome the delegate from North Carolina University and congratulate her, hoping her remoteness from the majority may not serve to mar the beauteous workings of the Beta Theta Pi, and that she may claim and hold a place as one of the brightest in the gay galaxy. For the infant Pi, we would wish all success.

M ay it soon stand forth blooming and valiant in the full vigor of manhood. Most of the chapters have responded nobly to the call, and our large attendance shows that the flag of Beta Theta Pi still triumphantly waves in the breeze; the flame of Beta love still burns with an ardent glow in the breasts of all who “ wear the badge and bear the name of Beta Theta Pi.” We are most happy to hear from the reports this afternoon of the high moral tone of the character of the members throughout the order.

We would recommend that the chapters devote much more time to literary performances than the majority of them do, as indi­ cated by the reports of the delegates this evening. Thus your committee congratulate you upon the present flourishing condi­ tion, late history, and prospects of your Association.”

H . C. W a r r e n ,

A. J. H o w a r d , H . E . R a n k in ,

Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

Moved and carried that Brothers Boude and Rogers distri­ bute as many catalogues to delegates here as may be necessary for the use of their chapters, and the remainder to be left to the care of Epsilon chapter for distribution.

Adjourned to meet at Odd Fellows Hall to-morrow morning.

O d d F e l l o w s H a l l , 8 o ’clo ck , A. M., August 15.

The delegates convened at the proper time and were called to order by the chairman. The regular business being the con­ sideration of the Constitution, the report of the committee was heard, received, and .after much discussion adopted, article by article, as follows: R E PO R T OF TH E C O M M IT T E E ON CO N STITU TIO N “ Your committee have great difficulty in performing the duties falling to their share, for the reason that no correct copy of the Constitution is before them. The copies to which we have had access lack the amendments of several previous Conventions.

Nor have we been able to obtain the minutes of any except the last of these Conventions We have been at a loss, therefore, to know what has been already amended and what remains for us to do. Your committee would call attention to this matter in order that it may not so occur in future. And we would suggest that every chapter, and especially such as have in their record books the minutes of all past Conventions, should take care to send their records to every Convention. We also think that minutes of Conventions when adopted should be copied into the book of each chapter.

We have but few amendments to offer. We do not consider it best to change essentially that excellent Constitution which has so long been the bond of our union and the source of our pros­ perity. It links us to the past in our history and we would dis­ courage any essential change.

We recommend the following amendments: First. That Art. 3, Sec. 2, be amended so as to read “ for the purpose of recog­ nition between members, this Association shall have a grip and passwords, and these shall in no case be committed to paper.”

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

59

Second. That Art. 5, Sec. 1, be changed to read “ The offi­ cers of each chapter shall be a President, Recorder and two Cor­ responding Secretaries, who shall be elected, etc.”

Third. That of Art. 5, Sec. 3, all after the word “ Property” be stricken out and these words substituted: “ And to do all the writing not otherwise provided for.”

Fourth. That the following be added to Art. 5, as Sec. 4, “ The duties of the Corresponding Secretaries shall be to carry on a system of monthly correspondence with the other chapters for the promotion of a regular interchange of information and sympathy.”

In addition to these amendments we recommend two resolu­ tions. The first has been already reported to the Convention and acted upon, viz: “ That we recommend the adoption of a secondary or additional badge in the form of a watch key, and that a committee be appointed to effect the same.”

It was resolved secondly, “ That hereafter the presiding chapter shall make arrangements for holding the Convention, and that until the next Convention the Zeta chapter shall preside.

In conclusion, the committee state that one of the directions of the last Convention has been neglected. It was then provided that an amended copy of the Constitution should be sent to each chapter. This we find has not been done, and as the copies of the different chapters disagree somewhat, and many of the late amendments are wanting in some of them, we deem some further action necessary.

B y the amendments now offered we have endeavored to change the Constitution so as to procure a more faithful attention to the duties already enjoined.

The correspondence between chapters and the semi-annual report of “ Condition and Prospects” have been greatly neglected.

B y dividing the labor of the Recorder we have endeavored to attain a better attention to these duties. We hope that in future the Constitution will be better lived up to, and that each “ will endeavor after a new obedience.”

F. H. R o g e r s , Chairman.

The Convention then decided that the next Biennial Conven­ tion be held at Berkley Springs, Va.

6o

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1856

Resolved, That Alpha chapter be instructed to employ some one of the members to transcribe and transmit to all the chapters a correct copy of the Constitution. Also to employ some one to copy and transmit to all the chapters a copy of the minutes of this Convention and to levy contributions on the chapters to defray expenses.

No further business being before the house, the Convention adjourned at 12 o’clock on Friday, August 15.

General good feeling and vivacity characterized the meetings of the Convention, worthy the warm souls of the sons of Beta Theta Pi, and all left feeling “ it was good for us to be here.”

D. W . M c C l u n g , President.

H a r r y K e i g w i n , Secretary.

Transcribed by D. C. Marquis, November 1, 1854.

A t this convention the notion of a secondary badge arose, and persisted for more than twenty-five years. It has been suggested that the reasons for desiring a secondary badge were two, viz.: the alumni wished to be distin­ guished from the undergraduates and the members generally wished a badge which could be given to women friends. Many of the fraternities did adopt secondary badges.

The minutes of this convention were the first to contain a regular, well considered report from the committees on chapters and on the constitution.

The Beta Waltz by Mrs. Kate Hunter, wife of Alexander Hunter of the Hanover Chapter, for which the authoress was thanked by this convention, was, so far as we know, the first piece of instrumental music dedicated to a college fraternity, but it may be that we were not the pioneers in this matter, as such music is ephemeral in character and soon gets out of print. This waltz was a pretty, melodious piece written in B flat. The lithographed cover displays a rustic arch from the top of which is hung the badge of the frater­ nity over a knot of ribbon and a star. Underneath is the title “Beta Waltz, Composed and Respectfully Dedicated to the Beta Theta Pi, by Mrs. Kate Hunter, Louisville, 1856.”

^ttiitutes o f tl)e Convention. o f 1858 PR O CEED IN G S OF TH E B IE N N IA L CO N VEN TIO N H ELD A T B E R K L E Y SPRINGS, VA. August 13- 16, 1858 Delegates present assembled at Pavilion Hall at 4 P. M., August 13, and called Brother W. A. Han way to the chair pro tem., and elected D. H. Moore Secretary pro tem. There were present: John C. Hester, Gamma; Miles Saunders, Epsilon; D. H. Moore, Kappa; D. M. Johnson, Lambda; W. A. Hanway, Nu; Henry W. Ballentine, Pi. Hoping that other delegates would arrive, the Convention adjourned to meet to-morrow, pursuant to call of the chair.

Attest D. H. M o o r e , Sec. pro tem.

P a v i l i o n H a l l , 4:30 P . M., August 14.

Agreeable to call of the chair the delegates met. The min­ utes of the previous meeting were read and adopted. The hearts of the faithful were rejoiced by the appearance of Brother R. S. Caruthers, Jr., representative of Mu. With an eye to the “ good time coming,” the Convention adjourned to meet as chair may determine.

P a v i l i o n H a l l , August 15, 1858.

No new delegates having arrived, the Convention was called to order at 6 o’clock A. M., by the chair, and on motion proceeded to effect a regular organization. W. A. Hanway was chosen President, Miles Saunders and R. L. Caruthers, VicePresidents, and D. H. Moore, Secretary. The following committee were then appointed: on Constitution; Miles Saunders, Henry W. Ballentine, and George Paul; on Catalogue, R. L. Caruthers, John C. Hester and D. M. Johnson; on Chapters, David H. Moore, Miles Saunders and W. A. Hanway, the latter being called to the committee by the Convention.

6i

62

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858

Moved and carried, that all suggestions to committees be handed to the chairman thereof in writing.

A committee of three was then on motion appointed to draft a circular expressive of our feelings in regard to the chapters not represented. Committee Brothers Ballentine, Moore and Hester.

A motion to adjourn, pursuant to order of chair, to enable hungry Betas to be fed and reports of committee prepared, was carried.

P a v i l i o n H a l l , 12 M., August 15.

Brother Hanway called delegates to business. The minutes of the morning session were read and approved.

The committee on Constitution reported. The report was accepted, having been voted upon article by article, amended somewhat and finally adopted as follows: We think our well tried and excellent Constitution admits of but little improvement. There is needed only a faithful adher­ ence to its letter and spirit, to make our society prosperous and useful and happy. We are, however, constrained to report that many of its provisions stand as almost dead letters upon its pages, for instance, those in reference to the presiding chapter, monthly statements and semi-annual reports. We recommend that the Convention enact such laws from time to time as may seem to be necessary to define and secure a right compliance with the provisions of the Constitution, and that they require these to be appended by each chapter to its Constitution, and to be while they remain in force of equal binding authority with the Con­ stitution.

First: T hat a third section be added to Art. 2, as follows: “ New chapters shall be established, and charters and copies furnished them only by the presiding chapter or by its order, and no chapter shall recognize a new chapter until informed of its establishment by the presiding chapter.”

Further that a second section be added to Article 9, as follows: “ After the alphabet shall have been exhausted, the priority of the chapters shall be indicated by commencing again at the beginning of the alphabet and repeating the letters— e. g., A A,

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858

63

BB, etc., pronounced, Alpha Alpha, Beta Beta, etc., and hereafter should a chapter become defunct, no chapter shall take its name.

(Signed) M il e s S a u n d e r s , H. W. B a l l e n t i n e , G eorge P a u l,

Committtee.

The report of Committee on Catalogue as amended and adopted was as follows: Knowing the importance of a well arranged catalogue, and believing that there are many deficiencies in our last, we, your committee, suggest the propriety of having a new and some­ what differently arranged catalogue, and that some chapter be selected by the Convention to take charge of the publication of the same. We respectfully recommend that the engraving of the last catalogue be retained; that the chapters be arranged in al­ phabetical order; that the names of the members of each chap­ ter be placed as in the last, with the addition of honorary titles, if any; and that there be, as in the last, an alphabetical list of members. We would call the attention of the Convention to the importance of impressing upon the chapters the necessity of for­ warding to the chapter to which the publication of the catalogue may be assigned, corrected lists of their members, so that the catalogues may be issued at the earliest possible moment. The chapter publishing the catalogue shall assess a tax upon the chapters sufficient to defray the expenses of publication. R. S. Caruthers, Jno. C. Hester, D. M. Johnson, Committee.

On motion, the superintendence of the publication of cata­ logue was committed to Kappa chapter, and two thousand copies ordered to be issued. It being 2:15 P. M., on motion, convention adjourned to meet at 3 P. M. P a v i l i o n , 3 o’clock P . M.

The delegates met and were called to order by President Han way.

The report of the Committee on Chapters was read and adopted, with one amendment, as follows:

64

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858

In regard to the present condition of our Association we can report, as far as our information extends, prosperity smiles upon us. The standard of membership is high. The mind and heart are regarded rather than numerical strength. Consequently Betas are everywhere the “ bone and sinew” of the institution with which they are connected. The opposition in most in­ stances is determined, but is being more and more convinced of the Phoenix-like nature of our glorious order. Correspondence, we are sorry to state, has been neglected on the part of many chapters. To this, more than anything else in the opinion of your committee, the slim attendance at this Convention is attri­ butable. We would urge upon Corresponding Secretaries the necessity of a more prompt and faithful discharge of their duties.

The future of our fraternity is with one exception cloudless, and we go forth to meet it with glad hearts and free, buoyant with hope and nerved with zealous energy. Since we last assem­ bled in conventional capacity, there have been four births in our family: Sigma, Illinois College, Jacksonville, Illinois; Tau, Wabash College; Upsilon, South Carolina College, Columbia, S. C.; and Phi, Davidson College, N. C. Although not repre­ sented the babes are reported to be thriving on the pure milk of Beta Theta Pi. We hail them with joy and bid them welcome to the gorgeous temple of Betaism.

We have no defunct chapters to report. The action of the last Convention in reference to Iota has been considered, and as we have nothing definite from that chapter we can but pass her silently, hoping that her star, emergent from the shroud of adver­ sity, may soon shine among the brightest in the galaxy of pros­ perity.

The whole number of properly constituted chapters is twenty-one. The establishment of a chapter at the Louisville University has been proposed, but your committee deem it impolitic. We would especially recommend to the consideration of our Fraternity that the chapters which will bear the names of three remaining letters of the alphabet, be located in none but institutions of the highest merit and reputation; and we would call your earnest attention to the Constitutional amendment adopted by this Convention in relation to the establishment of new chapters.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858

65

We are pleased to learn that so much attention is paid by the chapters to literary exercises.

Let there ever be a happy blending of mutual improve­ ment with social culture.

In conclusion, your committee would state that they feel assured that if Betas are but true to Beta principles, no opposi­ tion, however formidable, will be able to stay the onward march of Beta Theta Pi to universal supremacy. D. H. Moore, Miles Saunders, W. A. Hanway, Committee.

The following law, after considerable discussion as to its feasibility, was enacted.

Each member, after leaving college, shall report every change in his residence and profession to the chapter to which he belongs.

The following was also enacted after a great discussion as to its constitutionality: After a member has left the college in which his chapter is located he shall be amenable not only to his chapter, but also to the Convention of our Association.

Against this law, the following protest was entered: “ We, the undersigned, hereby protest against the law making a member after leaving college amenable to the Convention for his conduct, believing it opposed to Article 10, Sec. 2, of the Constitution, which defines the object of the Convention to be to consider and promote the general interest of the Association.

Also Article 8, Sec. 1, which reads, Each chapter shall have power to make regulations for itself respecting resignations and ex­ pulsion.— H. W. Ballentine, George Paul, W. A. Hanway.”

A law entitling a member after leaving college to the right of appeal to the Convention in case of expulsion from his chap­ ter, was warmly discussed and finally ruled by the chair uncon­ stitutional and consequently out of order. The house sustained the chair.

A motion to add Brothers Hanway and Paul to the committee on the Circular Letter to Chapters not represented at this Con­ vention was carried.

On motion, it was resolved that the next Biennial Convention meet at Columbus, Ohio, August 15, 1860, and until then Eta chapter shall preside.

Carried, that Mu be instructed to employ some of her mem­

66

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858

bers to transcribe the minutes of the Convention and forward a copy of the same to each chapter.

The Convention then chose Brother R. L. Caruthers to delivery the valedictory, after which it resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole on the state of chapters. A charming and racy love feast followed which conclusively showed the unity of purpose and harmony of spirit which characterizes our order. The committee then rose.

On motion, it was resolved, that we, owing to our ignorance of the Committee on Secondary Badge appointed by the last Convention, take no action thereto further than to continue said committee and instruct them to report to the Convention at Columbus.

The delegate from Lambda, Brother Johnson, asked the advice of the Convention in regard to the cases of Brother W. K. Gibson and H. A. Reeves, who since their initiation ijito the Beta Theta Pi have become attached to a society of similar nature. Several palliating circumstances and arguments were presented, but the unanimous voice of the Convention was that the offending brethren be expelled.

The following law was enacted: “ Each Convention shall record its laws separate from the minutes, and each shapter shall copy these laws into its statute book.”

On motion, it was resolved that Gamma be requested to collect all the laws passed by previous Conventions, and transmit a copy of the same to every chapter.

The minutes of the entire Convention were then read and approved, after which the delegates were enraptured by the eloquent and soul-stirring valedictory of Brother Caruthers.

The Convention, fervent with Beta enthusiasm, glowing with fraternal love, and mighty in the depth of its devotion to our motto, on motion, adjourned to meet as before resolved.

Attest:

W. A. H a n w a y , President.

D. H. M o Dr e , Secretary.

This convention had an unusually small attendance. Although it does not appear in the minutes, the fact was that the notices sent out by the pre­ siding chapter mis-stated the time at which it was to be held, and some of

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1858 the chapters sent delegates before and others after the proper time. mistake was not known at the time the convention met.

67 This

The two members of the Michigan chapter referred to in the minutes as having joined another fraternity were William K. Gibson and Henry A. Reeves, who with other students from Michigan had emigrated to Union College, owing to the trouble between the students and the faculty at Ann Arbor, and while at Union they became members of Delta Phi. These men were subsequently reinstated in Beta Theta Pi. While Beta Theta Pi remained substantially a western fraternity, it was not unusual for its members, going to eastern colleges, to join eastern fraternities, although it was forbidden by the constitution. In some cases the men were expelled and in others they were not. It seemed largely to be determined by the intention. If the member really intended to leave Beta Theta Pi, he was, of course, allowed to do so, but, if, as in many cases, he considered that membership in the two fraternities was not incompatible, and remained loyal to Beta Theta Pi, he was allowed to retain his member­ ship.

Unites o f tlje (Convention o f I860 M IN U T E S OF TH E T H IR D B IE N N IA L CO N VEN TIO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI ROOM No. 141, N E IL HOUSE, COLUM BUS, OHIO 2/^ o’clock, August 13, 1860.

The Convention was organized by calling to the chair F. C. Wilson and electing the delegate from Alpha Secretary. The following members were enrolled. Miami, John Woods, M. C. Williams, O. J. Dodds; Jefferson, W. B. Cook, J. L. Sample; J. M. Maxwell, W.A. Hanway; Ohio Wesleyan, J. F. Earle; W. W. Fountain, A. N. Mead, M. B. Gilbert, I. R. Dickinson; C. H. Rippey; Ohio, J. W. Short; Michigan, I. H. Elliott; Washington (Va.), F. C. Wilson; Davidson, J. P. Graham; Indiana-Asbury, J. G. Dunbar; Hanover, James Wilson; Indiana, H. McNeil.

On motion, the usual committees were appointed by the President.

Constitution, I. H. Elliott, O. J. Dodds and H. McNeil.

State of Chapters, J. M. Maxwell, W. W. Fountain, and J. P. Graham.

Address to Chapters, J. G. Dunbar, C. H. Rippey, and W. B. Cook.

Correspondence, J. F. Earle, M. C. Williams, and J. L. Sample.

It was resolved that the chairman of each committee be authorized to receive suggestions in writing from any member present. Convention then adjourned till 8 :30 o’clock to-morrow.

8:30 o’clock, August 16, 1860. • Convention met. Roll called, and Brother Dunbar from Delta found absent. The Committee on Changes in the Consti­ tution presented their reports as follows: 6q

70

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

R E PO R T OF TH E C O M M ITT E E ON THE CON STITU TIO N Your committee think of all the leagues, instruments, and constitutions that were ever penned by conventions, assemblies or councils, the Constitution of the glorious order of the Beta Theta Pi stands the wisest, best and noblest, and should be revered as was the Delphic oracle of the Greeks of old. Solon and Lycurgus could never have penned it, nor could Jefferson, unless he had graduated at one of the Institutions where a chapter of this order is located. A tree is known by its fruits; a man by his works; and a Republic by its laws, and a society is developed and held together, as its constitution is sound, wise, and just.

However, we conclude from the confidence, intellect, strength and unity of our order that the instrument of our government is wise and good, and but slight change in it is necessary.

We would suggest to each member to give earnest heed to its laws and directions. We consider the following changes, however, expedient: The committee recommends four amendments to the Con­ stitution— by way of addition (1) One on the subject of com­ mitting to writing the three Greek words expressing the object of the Association; (2) One on the subject of requiring delegates to the Biennial Convention to bring a copy of the Constitution and general laws, in possession of their respective chapters; (3) One fixing the time of meeting of the Biennial Convention; and (4) One on the subject of a secondary badge.

Of these amendments, the first, third and fourth were voted down, and the second laid on the table to be taken up in some other form. The subject of a secondary badge elicited much dis­ cussion, and indicated that while there is a general desire for an additional badge, there is much diversity of opinion as to the proper design. A motion to adopt, as a secondary badge, the design of a watch key presented by Alpha chapter, agreeably to the action of the last Convention, was lost by a vote of six to five.

A committee of three was appointed, however, consisting of Brothers Earle, Dunbar, Williams, to draft one or more designs and report to this Convention.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

Committee on Constitution: I. H. Elliott, 0 . J. Dodds, H. McNeil.

The Committee on the State of the Chapters signified their desire to have more time and were granted leave to sit again.

Brother Graham requested and obtained leave to absent himself from the remaining sessions of the Convention.

The Committee on Correspondence then presented their report, which was received, taken under consideration, adopted as follows: Gentlemen of the Convention: Your Committee on Corres­ pondence present the following report (the Secretary’s eye is a little crooked), for your consideration. In the first place there is quite a remissness in this matter. Some chapters are not heard from at all, while others are very infrequent and unsatisfactory in their communications. This is owing partly to the want of knowing who the real correspondents are. The remedy we sug­ gest is that each chapter send an annual catalogue of its college to every other chapter, marking the Beta Theta Pi members at the time of sending it, and the Corresponding Secretary particularly.

We recommend also that Seniors never be elected Corresponding Secretary during their last term, in order to avoid letters being sent to them after they have departed from college. As to the matter of letters, your Committee think best to say a word; complaints have been made of the occasional receipt of letters containing matters too indelicate and improper for the chapter’s ears. Humor and the interchange of social wit in our letters is commendable, but correspondence should never, through thought­ lessness or love of the ridiculous, so indulge in vulgarity as to sacrifice the dignity of the society. The committee is glad, however, that this indiscretion is by no means common. It has been observed only in a few cases. The good of the society at large and of the individual chapters requires freedom from vulgarity and propriety in the communications of the Secretary.

For the interest and order of our epistolary relations with each other, the committee recommend the following improvements.

We suggest that an engraving be stamped upon all the paper used by the society in its correspondence, the design to consist of a representation of the society badge with the sunbeam around it, as in the device on the cover of the catalogue, and that

72

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

arrangements be made with some lithographer or engraver in Cincinnati, Ohio, to supply the chapters with paper thus pre­ pared. We would also recommend that each chapter provide a printed form divided in five columns; the first containing the name of all the chapters, the second the name of their respective colleges, the third the post office, and the other two to be left for the names of the Corresponding Secretary and the date of the last letter received from each chapter.

(Signed)

J. F . E a r l M . C . W il l i a m s , J. L . S a m p l e .

Alpha chapter was appointed by resolution to carry into effect the recommendations of the Committee on Correspondence which relates to a supply of paper stamped with the adopted design.

The Committee on Address to the unrepresented chapters presented a report, which was adopted.

After hearing a narration of the delegates from the various chapters and reports of their prosperity and increase, the Con­ vention adjourned, until 3 P. M. N e i l H o u s e , 3 P. M., August 16.

Minutes of morning meeting read and adopted.

The Committee on the State of the Chapters made the following report, which was received.

Gentlemen:— Your committee are rejoiced to report the uni­ versal prosperity of the Association. The increase in members during the past two years has equalled, if not surpassed that of any previous year. The same care has been exercised with regard to qualifications of candidates for membership that has ever characterized the order. We are happy to report it as standing pre-eminent in genuine moral worth and high mental endowment; it being a principle of our order to admit no one as a member who bears a suspicious moral character or whose reputation is in the least degree tarnished.

Your committee beg leave to congratulate the Convention in this particular, and the chapters generally for their rigid adher­

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

73

ence to the principle to admit none who will ever be likely to bring into disrepute the bright name of Beta Theta Pi. Your committee beg leave to suggest the propriety of taking some measure in regard to the establishment of new chapters.

This we believe to be an important matter, and one on which our future success in no small degree depends.

Since our last Convention there have been applications for the founding of new chapters at Beloit College, Wis., Westmin­ ster College, Mo., and others. We only feel ourselves safe in recommending among these William and M ary College, Va., Beloit College, Wis., and Westminster College, Mo. In regard to epistolary correspondence between the chapters there has evidently been too little interest manifested. Doubt­ less this is owing frequently to the ignorance of some of the chapters as to who the corresponding secretaries of the others are.

To remedy this, we suggest that each chapter report the name of its Corresponding Secretary to the presiding chapter, whenever elections take place, and that it be the duty of the presiding chapter to send a list of all the Secretaries to all the chapters.

We would respectfully suggest that a charter be granted for the establishment of a chapter in no case except in institutions of known standing and where the standard of scholarship is high.

Our success depends more on the character than on the number of our members.

(Signed)

J. M . M a x w e l l , J. P. G r a h a m , W. W. F o u n t a i n , Committee.

The Committee on the Periodical submitted the following report: We think a literary publication composed of contributions from the members of the Beta Theta Pi would prove beneficial both to the individual members and to their order generally.

But as we can now devise no feasible plan for the immediate

74

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

establishment thereof, we refer the matter back to the chapters for further legislation at the next Convention.

(Signed)

J o h n G. D u n b a r , J ohn W o o d s,

C. H. R i p p e y , Committee.

The report was adopted without discussion.

The committee appointed to draft a design for the secondary badge then made their report as follows: Your Committee on Secondary Badge report as follows: The badge to be a watch key, the body of which shall be, on one side, a facsimile of the present pin, with the exception of the diamond in the center of the wreath, and on the other side to be plain gold engraven with first the Harp and Scroll; second, the name of the owner; and third the date of the foundation of his chapter.

(Signed) J. F. E a r l , M. C. W i l l i a m s , J. G. D u n b a r , Committee.

The following resolutions were then passed by the Con­ vention : 1 st. “ Resolved, That By-Law 2nd be stricken out, being unconstitutional, as it conflicts with 8th Art. which reads as follows: “ ‘ Each chapter shall have power to make its own regulations respecting resignations and expulsions.’

2nd. “ Resolved, That in case of a hiatus occasioned by a chapter becoming defunct or incapacitated to assume the respon­ sibility of presiding chapter, the presidency shall fall to the chapter immediately succeeding, and not to the meeting as was the case during the last two years.

3rd. “ Resolved, Theta be recognized as the presiding chapter during the present term.

4th. “ Resolved, That the orator for the next Convention

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF i860

75

be chosen by Theta, and thereafter the orator be elected as directed by the Convention.

5th. “ Resolved, That Tau chapter be and is hereby ap­ pointed to execute and send to the several chapters copies of the minutes of the Convention.

6th. “ Resolved, That Kappa chapter be authorized to send copies of the circular of the Convention to the unrepresented chapters.

7th. “ Resolved, That Nu chapter be authorized to con­ tract for the manufacture of the Secondary badge adopted by the Convention.

8th. “ Resolved, That when this Convention adjourns, it be to meet at Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, on the second Wednes­ day of August, 1862.

F. C. W il s o n , President.

J o h n W o o d s , Secretary.

Mtlnutes of tlje Convention of 1864 PR O CEED IN GS OF THE TW ELFTH BIE N N IA L CONVEN TION No. 84 BATES HOUSE, IN DIAN APOLIS, IND. August 19, 1864.

The Twelfth Biennial Convention of the “ Beta Theta P i” fraternity, assembled pursuant to the order of the presiding chapter. The following chapters were represented by the follow­ ing persons: Miami, John Morton; Western Reserve, S. E. Williamson; Indiana Asbury (De Pauw), H. J. Dunbar; Indiana, John Roberts; Ohio, W. O. Young; Michigan, J. B. Root; Hanover, J. A. Dean and J. A. Kellar.

A motion for temporary organization being carried, the fol­ lowing officers were chosen: Mr. Roberts, Chairman; Mr. Kellar, Secretary.

On motion, a Committee on Permanent Organization and Order of Business was appointed. Committee, Root and Wil­ liamson.

On motion, a Committee on Printing and Publication was appointed, committee, Dean and Morton.

On motion, a Committee on the Reorganization of the Fra­ ternity was appointed. Committee, Young and Williamson.

On motion, the Convention adjourned until 3 P. M. J o h n R o b e r t s , President.

Afternoon Session, 3 P. M. The Convention convened and was called to order by the temporary chairman, who called for reports.

On motion, the reports were made at the committees’ desks.

The Committee on Permanent Organization and Order of Business reported as follows: 77

78

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1864

To the Beta Theta P i Fraternity:— Your committee, having had under consideration the matter assigned to them, beg leave to report as officers, President, Brother Roberts; Secretary, Brother Kellar.

As an Order of Business, we would recommend: 1st. Read­ ing of the Minutes; 2nd. Presentation of Credentials; 3rd.

Reports of Committees; 4th. Reports of Delegates; 5th.

Miscellaneous Business.

For the evening, 8 ^ o’clock: 1st. An oration; 2nd.

Festivities under direction of Brother Kellar; 3rd. Final adjournment. J. B. Root, S. E. Williamson, Committee.

On motion, the report was adopted without amendment.

The Committee on Printing and Publication reported as follows: To the Beta Theta P i Fraternity:— Your committee, having duly considered the matter referred to them, would recommend: 1st. That there be no catalogue published until after the next Convention.

2nd. That it contain a “ Roll of Honor” consisting of all members who are now, or have been, in the service of the United [States, and that no rank under that of Colonel be mentioned in the chapter list, but reference be made to the Roll of Honor.

3rd. That Beta chapter be authorized to publish such numbers of copies of a song book of the fraternity as each chap­ ter m ay order for herself previous to the first of November, said song book to be composed of such number and kind as may in her opinion be best.

4th. That calls for Conventions hereafter be printed.

5th. That each chapter be furnished a list of members and such other information in order that a catalogue may be published by the next convention.

6th. That “ A lpha” be authorized to compile a catalogue and present it to the next Convention for approval, and that each chapter by looking over the old correspondence prepare a »complete list of the members of the chapters not now in existence and send them to “ A lpha” prior to the first of November for -compilation.

I. A. D e a n , J ohn M orton ,

Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1864

79

On motion, the report with amendments was adopted.

The Committee on Reorganization of the Fraternity re­ ported as follows: To the Beta Theta P i Fraternity:— Your Committee on the Reorganization of the Fraternity would recommend: 1st. That Lambda be presiding chapter until the next Convention.

2nd. That the presiding chapter take immediate measures to ascertain the number and names of the existing chapters and their Corresponding Secretaries, and inform the other chapters of their existence at some time between the first of September and the first of October of each year.

3rd. That Art. 10, Sec. 1, of the Constitution be amended by inserting “ Annual,” instead of “ Biennial.”

4th. That the next Convention be held at Ann Arbor, the last Wednesday in January, 1865.

5th. That the following be and is hereby added to Art. 2 of the Constitution: “ And it shall be the duty of the presiding chapter, when requested by one-third of the existing chapters, to appoint a committee of two, who shall visit any college at which it is proposed to establish a chapter and prepare a report which shall be sent to any chapter desiring it.” .

6th. That a committee of two be appointed by the chair of this Convention, who shall prepare an address to Psi Upsilon fraternity, and which shall be presented to the next Convention for approval.

7th. That the following be and is hereby adopted. Re­ solved that the Beta Theta Pi fraternity does not deem it for her best interests to establish chapters in eastern institutions.

8th. That this Convention refuse to grant applications a Meadville and Monmouth.

Moved, that since the sixth resolution of the Committee on Printing and Publication makes it a duty of the chapters to report to “ Alpha,” that delegates defer their reports until September, and make them to Alpha.

On motion, the following resolution was adopted ^ ‘ Re­ solved, that delegates attending the next Convention furnish historical sketches of their chapters, which shall be preserved in the Archives of the Fraternity.”

8o

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1864

On motion, the following resolution was adopted: “ Re­ solved, That the delegates attending the next Convention furnish copies of their Constitutions for purposes of correction.”

On motion, the Convention adjourned to meet at the Spencer House at 7 P. M. J o h n R o b e r t s , President, J. A. K e l l a r , Secretary.

This convention was held during the war. During the period from i860 to 1864, chapters had been established at Bethany College, West Vir­ ginia, P si\ Beloit College, Wisconsin, C h i; and the United States Naval Academy, then at Newport, Rhode Island, Omega. The men who estab­ lished the Psi chapter were also the founders of a society called Delta Tau Delta, which afterwards became a general college fraternity. A t the time, however, that Psi was established, the organization of Delta Tau Delta at Bethany had practically been abandoned, and but for the fact that a chap­ ter of Delta Tau Delta had been organized at West Liberty College, West Virginia, that society would have had no further existence.

When the war broke out the southern chapters at Hampden-Sidney, North Carolina, Cumberland, the University of Virginia, Washington Col­ lege (Virginia), South Carolina College, Davidson College, and Oglethorpe University were at once cut off from the rest of the fraternity. The chapter a t Centre College also became inactive because of the fact that its members, .dividing between the North and the South, enlisted in both armies. The .chapters in existence at the outbreak of the war were therefore Miami, West,em Reserve, Ohio, Jefferson, Asbury, Indiana, Michigan, Wabash, Ohio Wesleyan, Hanover, Washington College (Pa.), Knox, Illinois College, and Bethany; and at the time of the convention of 1864, as before stated, two ^additional chapters had been chartered, namely at Beloit and the United .States Naval Academy, but were both practically inactive.

The chapters at Western Reserve, Jefferson, Wabash, and Hanover were in poor condition owing to the enlistment of many of their members in the army, the chapter at Illinois never properly got on its feet, and the chapter at Bethany was composed of a very few members. Indeed, the only chapters that could be said in any sense to be flourishing were Indiana-Asbury, Indiana, Ohio Wesleyan, Hanover, Knox and Michigan.

For some time prior to 1864, the chapter at the University of Mich­ igan had been conducting a friendly correspondence with the chapter of Psi Upsilon at Dartmouth, at first with a view to securing from such Dartmouth chapter the constitution of Alpha Delta Phi which that chapter was sup­ posed to possess, having stolen it some time in the early fifties. This corre­ spondence conducted in school-boy fashion resulted finally in a desire on the part of these two chapters to effect a consolidation of the two fraternities.

Psi Upsilon at that time had a relatively imposing roll; its chapters were located at Union, New York University, Yale, Brown, Amherst, Dartmouth, Columbia, Bowdoin, Hamilton, Wesleyan, Harvard, Rochester, and Kenyon; it had not entered the South, and none of the chapters except the one at Union had been affected by the war. J. B. Root, Michigan ’65, was the leading

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1864

81

spirit in this movement. As will be seen from the minutes, he was the dele­ gate from the Michigan chapter to the convention, and he endeavored to further the project by all means in his power. And in pursuance of this intent, he secured the appointment of the Michigan chapter as the presiding chapter, caused the refusal of applications from Allegheny and Monmouth Colleges, promoted the passage of a resolution not to establish any chapters in eastern colleges, and caused the appointment of a committee to prepare an address to the Psi Upsilon Fraternity.

A t his own expense, during the remaining months of the calendar year — 1864-65, he visited the chapters of Psi Upsilon and persuaded them to grant a charter to the Michigan chapter, refusing to effect a consolidation with the entire fraternity, and early in 1865, on January 26th, all of its members but two were initiated into Psi Upsilon, returning their archives and papers to the Miami chapter. Undoubtedly the men of the Michigan chapter thought that Beta Theta Pi was on the point of extinction and that they were merely saving themselves by deserting a sinking ship, but of course actually they were, even according to inter-fratemity standards of that time, disloyal and treacherous. The men who thus desertedlwere Abraham J. Aldrich, William H. Barnes, James D. Cornelius and John B. Root, of the class of '65; Henry W. Hubbard, William B. Sager, Henry H. Wines, and Alfred E. Mudge of the class of '66; Albert M. Henry, Milton Jackson, George L. Maris, and Joseph A. Mercer of the class of ’67; and Adoniram D. Carter, Thomas Cresswell, Galusha Pennell, and Edward L. Water of the class of ’68. f in addition there were subsequently initiated some alumni of the chapter who had been associated with the movement, namely, Orville W. Coolidge and Henry M. Hurd of the class of '63; Schuyler Grant, George C. Palmer, and Bluford B. Wilson of the class of ’64; Martin L. D ’Ooge of the class of ’62; Charles K. Adams, Edwin Hadley and Jonas H. McGowan of the class of ’61. The chapter also claimed to have taken with them Orlando M. Barnes of the class of ’50 and James C. Watson of the class of ’57, but these two men, with John L. Turrell, ’64, repudiated the arrangement and remained in Beta Theta Pi. There were two Betas in college at the time who did not join in the movement. These were Edward C. Boudinot ’65, and Clement J. Whipple, ’67, the latter having been initiated at the Knox chapter.

M tinutes o f tl>e Convention o f 1865 PR O CE ED IN G S OF TH E T H IR T E E N T H C O N V EN TIO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y H ELD IN D E T R O IT February i, 1865 Names of delegates: John H. Patterson, Alpha {Miami); H. C. Clark and Henry M. Wright, Beta (Western Reserve); Alfred Ryors, Epsilon {Centre); C. R. Bagg and Oliver A. Brown, Theta {Ohio Wesleyan); J. A. Kellar, Iota {Hanover); Sidney D. Miller, Ira Olds, T. M. Baxter, E. C. Boudinot and W. W. Dedrick, Lambda {Michigan); Hamilton S. McRue and E. M. McDonald, Pi {Indiana); R. B. F. Pierce, Tau {Wabash); D. G. Hamilton, Delta {Indiana Asbury).

The Convention was called to order at 3 :3o o’clock by Mr. Patterson, and Mr. McDonald was requested to act as Secretary.

Committees were then appointed as follows: On Permanent Organization, Messrs. Hamilton, Pierce and Brown.

On Order of Business, Messrs. Hamilton, Kellar and Ryors.

The Convention then took a short recess with a view to the consultation of committees.

The Convention having been called to order, the Committee on Permanent Business reported, presenting the name of J. A. Kellar as permanent President, and the name of Oliver A. Brown as permanent Secretary, which was adopted. J. A. Kellar taking the chair.

The Committee on Order of Business then reported as follows: (1) Reading of Minutes.

(2) Presentation of Credentials.

(3) Reports of Committees.

(4) Reports of Delegates.

84

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1865

(5) Miscellaneous Business.

(6) Final Adjournment, and was adopted.

The Committee on Credentials reported that each member of the Convention be considered a delegate, and that the society badge be considered a sufficient guarantee for the delegate’s identity.

Proceeding now in the regular order of business, the minutes of the last Convention were read.

The report of the Committee 011 Credentials making the Society Badge a sufficient guarantee for the delegates’ identity covered all business under this head.

The following committees were now appointed in order to give them sufficient time to prepare their reports to present at the evening session.

On revision of Constitution, Messrs. Pierce, Hamilton and Patterson.

On resolutions, Messrs. McDonald, Baxter and Brown.

Alpha chapter was empowered by motion to compile and publish a catalogue of the fraternity. The Convention then pro­ ceeded to the appointment of a presiding chapter, resulting in the choice of Iota, the Hanover chapter, to act as such by the unanimous voice.

In order to meet the exigency of a case similar to the one of late arising from the action of Lambda chapter, the following resolution was presented to the Convention. “ Resolved, that Alpha chapter shall resume her functions as presiding chapter of this fraternity should Iota chapter at any time refuse 01* neglect to act as such.”

This was referred to the Committee on the Revision of the Constitution.

The Convention then adjourned to 8130 o’clock P. M. Convention met, pursuant to adjournment, at 8:30 P. M., Wednesday.

The Committee on Revision of the Constitution now made its report.

The Committee on Constitution report that, as a Constitu­ tion, they believe it to be almost perfect, and that it needs no­

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1865

revision, except such as the emergency of our condition demands.

We therefore offer the following as an amendment to the Con­ stitution Art. 2, Sec. 3: If at any time the presiding chapter should refuse or neglect to act as such, then the oldest existing chapter shall assume the function of presiding chapter.

This report being adopted, the Committee on Resolutions presented their report, and it was received by the Convention.

On motion, the resolutions were taken up one by one and con­ sidered. The first being read, which was as follows: (1) That we, the members of the Beta Theta Pi Conven­ tion, do appreciate and approve the course taken by Mr. Ed. C. Boudinot, in regard to the late disgraceful action of the members of Lambda chapter, and in consideration thereof we do hereby extend to him our heartfelt thanks for his manly bearing in maintaining the dignity and honor of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

This was unanimously adopted.

(2) As the sense of this Convention that the only way to foster and engender a true feeling between the chapters of the fraternity is by a constant interchange of thought and feelings, and, therefore, we do enjoin upon each and every chapter the vital necessity of keeping up a regular and systematic corres­ pondence with each other.

Which was unanimously adopted.

(3) That the resolution passed at the last Biennial Con­ vention prohibiting the re-establishment of chapters in eastern colleges, be, and is hereby revoked.

After much discussion upon the resolution, this was pre­ sented as a substitute: (3) That as a declaration of general policy this Convention deems it inexpedient that the society should seek establishment in or affiliation with eastern colleges or societies.

This being rejected, the original resolution was adopted.

(4) This was a repetition of the third, and was rejected.

(5) Whereas: cases may arise in which two chapters may dispute in reference to each other’s jurisdiction: Therefore, be it Resolved, that in case of such disputes the presiding chapter

86

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1865

shall have the power to decide, first having obtained the evidence of both parties; and such decision shall be final, subject to an appeal to a majority of the chapters.

This resolution was referred to the Committee on Constitu­ tion, which was directed to report immediately. They reported, after a moment’s consultation, the following as an amendment to the Constitution, Art. 2nd, Sec. 3.

In case of dispute with reference to each other’s jurisdiction between any two chapters, the presiding chapter shall have the power to decide, first having obtained the evidence of both parties, and such de­ cision shall be final, subject to any appeal to a majority of the chapters.

This report after considerable discussion was adopted.

(6) That the grip be changed.

A committee consisting of Messrs. Baxter, Olds and Pat­ terson, were appointed to decide upon some change in the grip and to report immediately. The committee submitting their report, it was adopted.

Two resolutions were now presented which were accepted and adopted, namely: 11 Resolved, That the resolution passed by the last Biennal Convention, authorizing an address to the Psi Upsilon fraternity, be, and the same is hereby rescinded and expunged from the records of this society. “ Resolved, That the following persons (naming them) formerly members of this fraternity, have in joining the Psi Upsilon society by their own action expelled themselves from the Bieta Theta Pi Society, and we, the delegates in annual Con­ vent on assembled, accept and ratify the expulsion which they have forced upon us, and declare them no longer members of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.”

The following resolution, being presented, was adopted. “ Resolved, That this Convention request Brother Boudinot to maintain the chapter at Ann Arbor, and that we pledge our hearty support to further him in his endeavors.”

Three other resolutions were submitted and adopted, reading as follows:

THE M I N U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1865

87

“ Resolved,, That the existing chapters of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity learned with deep regret the serious disorganization in Lambda chapter of the fraternity. “ Resolved, That we regard this alienation of affection for the fraternity as partly owing to a neglect in cultivating those feelings of mutual co-operation among the chapters and fidelity to one another which are the essence and spirit of the Con­ stitution. “ Resolved, That we will make an earnest endeavor to main­ tain a chapter of Beta Theta Pi at Michigan University, and in order to accomplish this we recommend the several chapters to endeavor to send some true Greeks to receive their degrees at the University of Michigan, and aid in the building up of the chapter.”

Delta chapter was authorized by the Convention to compile and publish a song book for the fraternity.

Messrs. Baxter and Dedrick were appointed as a committee to order the publishing of a notice of the meeting of the Conven­ tion in the Detroit daily papers. A resolution as follows was adopted: “ Resolved, That we, the delegates from abroad, do hereby extend our thanks to the resident members for the kind and courteous manner in which we were received and have been entertained.”

The business before the Convention having been accom­ plished by a brief, yet very pleasant session, it adjourned at 1 o’clock A. M., Thursday, to meet the first Tuesday in May, 1866, the place of meeting to be determined by the presiding chapter by giving two months’ notice.

J o h n A. K e l l a r , President.

O l i v e r A. B r o w n , Secretary.

This convention was held a week later than the date set, and its legis­ lation is naturally to be viewed and read in the light of the desertion of the Michigan chapter.

Probably at this time the fraternity was at its lowest ebb; the Mich­ igan chapter had just deserted, the Western Reserve chapter, as will be seen

88

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1865

later, was planning to desert, the chapter at Centre College was practically inactive, as were the chapters at Illinois and Bethany; the Washing­ ton (Pa.) College chapter was in process of consolidation with the Jefferson chapter owing to the union of the two colleges, and the only chapters really having an active existence were those at Miami, Western Reserve, Jeffer­ son, Indiana-Asbury, Ohio Wesleyan, Hanover, Indiana, Wabash, Ohio, and Knox.

^ttiixutes of tfye Convention. of 1866 S p e n c e r H o u s e , C i n c i n n a t i , O h io , M ay i, 1866.

Pursuant to the adjournment of the last Convention, the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity assembled in the parlors of the Spencer House, Cincinnati, at 10:30 o’clock A. M. The hearts of the faithful were made glad by the appear­ ance of twenty-three brothers, representing Alpha (Miami), Beta (Western Reserve), Delta (Indiana Asbury— De Pauw), Epsilon (Centre), Theta (Ohio Wesleyan), Iota (Hanover), Kappa (Ohio), Mu (Cumberland), Nu (Monmouth), X i (Knox), and Pi (Indiana) chapters. Everything promised such a Con­ vention in numbers, interest and importance as has not been held for many years.

Brother Olin R. Brouse (Delta), was appointed chairman pro tem. Brother Edw. Thomson (Theta), Secretary pro tem.

Brothers Rusk (Theta), Moffatt (Nu), and Hayner (Xi) were selected a committee to effect a permanent organization in the absence of the President of the presiding chapter. Brother Rusk was reported for Chairman, Brother Hanford for Secretary, and Brother Iglehart (Delta) for Assistant Secretary. The report received, and valuable and interesting remarks listened to from the chairman. Brother J. H. Lozier (Delta) was requested to report to the papers proper information in regard to the Con­ vention. Brothers Monfort (Iota), Iglehart and Gillett (Pi) were appointed a Committee on Arrangements. Brother Lozier reported that Judge Storer would address the Convention in private, not having sufficient time to prepare a public oration.

It was stated that Brother Hills would address the Convention at 10 o’clock to-morrow. A resolution was adopted that every member of the fraternity, whether a delegate or not, be invited to take active part in the proceedings of the Convention. Pending the report of the Committee on Arrangements, Brother James Mendenhall (Theta) responded to the call of the Convention in a few remarks.

89

go

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

Brothers Brouse, Moffatt, and Campbell (Beta) were ap­ pointed a committee to report on the condition of the chapters.

Brothers Carnahan (Tau), Thornton (Iota), and Ewing (Cum­ berland) were appointed a Committee on Catalogue. Brothers Brouse, Ewing, Moffatt, Thornton and Durrell (Alpha) were appointed Committee on the Constitution.

The Committee on Arrangements reported that the room would be made more suitable for the dignity of the Convention, and also reported unfavorably on the merits of the several halls and parlors in the city.

Delta chapter was authorized to collect moneys from the several chapters to defray the expenses incurred in publishing the song book and to distribute the books in proportion to the amounts received from the several chapters.

A committee of three on the ritual were appointed as fol­ lows: Brothers Lozier, Moffatt and Kennan (Beta). Brothers Turner (Theta), Banning (Alpha), and Whittaker (Alpha) were selected a committee to invite Betas of the city to the Con­ vention.

Carried, that we meet at 9 o’clock A. M., to-morrow to dis­ cuss in Committee of the Whole the question of a “ Roll of Honor.” Adjourned at half past twelve.

The voting delegates present at this morning’s session, were J. H. Patterson of Alpha, F. S. Hanford of Beta, O. R. Brouse of Delta, J. T. Rusk of Theta, G. G. Dunn of Iota, L. M. Jewett of Kappa, C. M. Ewing of Mu, J. E. Moffatt of Nu, and F. M. Hayner of Xi. M ay 1, 1866.

The Brothers assembled at half past two in informal meet­ ing. There being doubt as to whether Judge Storer was a mem­ ber of the fraternity, and he having been engaged by some inadvertency to address us, it was carried that a committee of two be appointed to wait on the gentleman and ascertain if he is a member of Beta Theta Pi. If he is, to renew the invitation to address us; if not, to state the case plainly and break the en­ gagement. Jewett and Patterson appointed. Adjourned.

Pursuant to adjournment, the Brothers assembled in Con­ vention at half past three. Additional delegates had arrived,

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

91

and other brothers from abroad, as well as from the city, were present. Brother Jewett reported that Judge Storer appreciated the situation in which we were placed by our mistake in engaging him and kindly urged business of such nature as to prevent him from addressing us. The Committee on Arrangements reported progress and desired further time. The remainder of the com­ mittees reported the same and requested more time.

Kappa’s delegate not having arrived, it was moved that Brother L. M. Jewett be allowed to act for her, until the regular delegate should arrive. This was carried after some discussion and the showing of similar proceedings in previous Conventions.

A motion was carried that Brothers be appointed to make reports to the various papers. Brothers Mendenhall and Jewett were appointed for the Gazette, Lozier for the Commercial, and Swormsted for the Advocate. Brothers Moffatt and Hayner were requested to write to the Chicago Tribune and Republican, and Brother Ewing to some Nashville paper.

The Committee on Catalogue submitted a report as follows: After examining the lists of several of the chapters, we find them very defective and would, therefore, recommend that these lists be referred to their respective chapters for correction,, and that they be returned to Iota chapter immediately, Iota to have the plate engraved and the catalogue to be issued on or about the first of June, the expenses to be borne by the different chapters, according to the numbers of their members.

Respectfully submitted, Carnahan, Ewing, Thornton, Com­ mittee.

The report was received, and the committee dischargedIt was carried that the presiding chapter immediately ascer­ tain the votes of the several chapters in regard to establishing a chapter at the Iowa State University.

Brother J. T. Rusk was appointed an additional member on the Committee of Arrangements. A t half past four the Brothers, adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock.

M ay 1, 1866, 8 P. M. The Convention assembled at eight. It was carried that the appointed hour for the Committee of the whole to discuss the matter of a “ Roll of Honor” be reconsidered. The original

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

question was lost, and it was decided that the matter be dis­ cussed this evening.

After a thorough and protracted discussion of deep feeling and generous sentiment which demonstrated that the interests of Beta were first in the hearts of all, and that political divisions were of minor importance, the idea of a Roll of Honor was com­ pletely abandoned, and the Convention adopted the following resolution: “ Resolved, That in publishing the catalogue no military titles be used, except those in the service of the United States at the time of publication.”

Nominations were then made for places to hold the next Convention. The selection was made by ballot and resulted in the choice of Indianapolis. The selection was made unanimous by acclamation.

The Committee on Arrangements reported preparations for a supper to-morrow evening at which addresses are to be de­ livered.

The Committee on Ritual gave a brief written report with further verbal explanations. Carried that the committee prepare a full report and to that end be granted further time to elaborate it, and when completed that it be sent to the Secretary of the Convention to be incorporated into the minutes. Adjourned at half past eleven until 10 o’clock to-morrow A. M. M ay 2, 1866.

The Brothers assembled in Convention at 8:30 A. M., a yet larger number being present than the day before. The meeting was opened by a Beta song. Brother Hills offered prayer.

The Brothers were then addressed by Brothers Hills, Fuller­ ton, Dudley, Stevens, Finch, Monfort, Jewett, Bennett, Ewing, Mendenhall and Black. All spoke as only Betas can address Betas, and, whether newly or long since graduated, with such depth and warmth of feeling as testified well to the hold which Beta maintains on the sentiments of her sons.

The Committee on Chapters requested each delegate to hand to it a statement of the condition and prospects of the several chapters.

The Committee on Catalogue recalled their lists to strike out titles.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

93

The delegates made brief reports of the conditions of their chapters.

Claims for the presiding chaptership were then heard.

After much discussion, it was moved that according to prece­ dent the presiding chaptership be handed down in alphabetical order. Carried, and Kappa appointed.

The question of the proposed union with Zeta Psi being agitated, the Convention swept it entirely away by declaring their intention never to unite with any other secret society in a manner demanding any surrender of identity.

The second Tuesday of April, 1867, was the date fixed upon for holding the next Convention. A t half past twelve ad­ journed until two.

M ay 2, 1866.

The Brothers assembled in Convention at half past two.

Brothers Spinning and Monfort were requested to report to the Commercial concerning to-day’s proceedings. Brother Geo. L. Spinning, President of Iota, the presiding chapter, reported in writing generally and particularly concerning the interests of Beta Theta Pi during the past year, as follows: H a n o v e r , I n d ., April 30, 1866.

To the Annual Convention of Beta Theta Pi:— Whereas, by a provision of our Constitution, the presiding chapter is made the depository of all general and particular information, and is expected to disseminate the same throughout the fraternity, and as it is exceedingly difficult to perform the latter duty properly by correspondence, we would respectfully submit a summary of all intelligence we have been able to glean of things concerning our order during the last year in the following report of the transactions of Iota as presiding chapter of the Beta Theta Pi from February 4th, 1865, to M ay 1st, 1866: When Iota was called upon to occupy the place of presiding chapter, the fortunes of our order were at a lower ebb, her pros­ pects more gloomy than they ever had been since the time of its origin. Judging from the status of any one chapter, all seemed to be well; but glancing around over the whole fraternity, one might readily perceive that the Greek fire upon our altar had smouldered down to a mass of coals— covered with ashes of

94

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

sloth and apparently dead. Each chapter seemed content with enjoying the social pleasure ever to be found within its own circle, thoughtlessly supposing that the order at large could take care of itself. Correspondence had been almost entirely neglected, many chapters not knowing positively of the existence of any other, till this culpable neglect and want of vigilance had culminated in the disastrous decision of the Lambda. This blow was sudden and unexpected. We had fondly deemed that no man (much less a whole chapter) who had taken upon himself the obliga­ tions of a member of Beta Theta Pi, could ever prove false to them. But, for the Beta of our motto, Root and his compeers returned us enmity and injury; our “ T heta” had taught them the opposite of its true teachings, and for our “ P i” we received in return from them only the blackest of treachery. But so low had we descended— so cold had we grown— that even this stroke only raised a feeble glimmering blaze, which, after a few futile fulminations, subsided and all was again in a state of torpidity.

Iota confesses that she was as much to blame as anyone. It was not until September last that she awoke to a sense of her duty.

We then called upon some of our most active sisters to join with us in striving to arouse the dormant energies of our sister chapters, and bring our quiescent strength once more into full play. We were soon repaid for our effort. Messages full of love and breathing out, in every line, the true Greek spirit, began to pour in upon us,— kind offerings for the common good, friendly greetings of sympathy and counsel. Then, just as we had shaken off our lethargy, were beginning once more to live, and a cheerful, steady blaze had shot up from the smouldering embers upon the altar, came the glad intelligence of the constancy of our Southern Sisters, during the dark years of separation by war, which sent a quickening thrill of joy throughout the whole order.

Further encouragement was furnished by the successful grafting of a healthy shoot of the parent stem into the college at Monmouth, 111. A lively interest has continued to be evinced by a majority of chapters up to the present time.

Such is a general statement of the condition and workings of the fraternity for the past year.

Iota was first officially informed of her appointment as pre­ siding chapter February 4th, 1865, and immediately entered

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

95

upon her duties as such. The first measure that was pressed upon our attention was a painful one— calling upon a sister chapter to vindicate herself from the charge of inconstancy in joining with Lambda in her secession. In reply, we received a full and satis­ factory vindication, which also served to deepen the hues of Root’s dark perfidy, by showing his endeavors to take advantage of the “ implicit confidence” demanded by our pledge to mis­ lead our trusting brothers. We transmitted the purport of Beta chapter’s defense to all the chapters, and all who took any notice of the matter received the explanation as entirely satisfactory.

The decrease of the number of chapters (which number at various times had been so great as to require all the letters of the Greek alphabet to designate them, but had now declined to ten) was a matter of great concern to us; and we resolved that the interests of the fraternity demanded earnest endeavors for the re-organization of defunct chapters at all institutions where the requisite material could be found, and a judicious extension of our boundaries in new directions.

The first institution proposed as a worthy site for a new chapter was the North Western Christian University at Indian­ apolis, Ind. After several months of correspondence upon the subject the requisite number of affirmative votes were cast, and on October 28, 1865, Brothers Geo. F. Hippard (Hanover ’63), and John G. Blake (Hanover ’65), of Indianapolis, were ap­ pointed a committee to prosecute the work; but from their acquaintance with the students of the Institution they have not felt that they would be justified in founding a chapter there.

September 20, 1865, Iota proposed to the fraternity that at Monmouth, 111., a chapter should be organized, which proposi­ tion was so favorably received that November 26, 1865, eleven chapters (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Theta, Kappa, Mu, Xi, Omicron, Pi, Rho and Omega), having voted the affirmation, we appointed Brothers J. E. Moffatt of Pi and G. L. Spinning of Iota to organize the proposed chapter, and December 23, 1865, we were officially informed of the existence of a chapter at Mon­ mouth, 111.

On the 25th of November, 1865, by request of some Brothers residing at Cincinnati, we proposed to the fraternity that a chapter be established at the “ Cincinnati Law School,” but the

Q6

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

proposition was rejected by five negative votes— an equal num­ ber voting favorably.

December 13, 1865, we received, through Pi chapter, a communication from Brother Louis H. Jackson of Sigma Prime (Illinois College), a student at the “ Iowa State University,” requesting authority to establish a chapter at that Institution.

We submitted this request to the chapters. The matter is as yet undecided— nine chapters have voted affirmatively, one negatively, and four have not voted.

November 4th, 1865, we received a communication from Brother Frank C. Wilson, Lexington, Va., informing us of the reorganization of Rho chapter at Washington College, Va., and soon after followed the intelligence of the existence of Mu at Cumberland, and Omicron at the University of Virginia.

We have used all the means at our disposal to carry into effect the resolution of the Convention of 1865, concerning the re-establishment of Lambda, but all Our efforts have been with­ out success, and we finally came to the conclusion that it would be inexpedient to make any further attempts to accomplish this end during the continuance of the present condition of affairs at Ann Arbor.

We have made inquiries concerning the prospects of re­ establishing Epsilon, and have ascertained that there is now no member of the order in attendance at Centre College, but that the fortunes of the college are in the ascendency, and that there is plenty of good material to choose from in the reorganization of Epsilon.

We also made an endeavor to have Zeta reorganized, but ascertained that there is not now a sufficient number of students at Hampden-Sidney College to justify the reorganization of the chapter there. We have also ascertained that all the members of Phi, of whom anything is known, are dead; but there are quite a number of excellent students at Davidson College, who ear­ nestly desire to see a chapter of our order in existence there.

On March 28, 1866, we received a communication from Brother Z. D. Harrison of Milledgeville, Ga., a member of Oglethorpe chapter, requesting authority to reorganize Chi. We decided that as the records of Chi were in his possession, he himself was Chi chapter, and needed no authority to increase the

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

97

chapter according to his discretion, and so informed him. But we have not as yet heard from him in reply.

In September, 1865, at the request of members of Nu prime, we decided that Nu chapter should be removed to Canonsburg, Pa., and carried on under the name of Gamma, and that the chapter at Washington should cease to exist.

On M ay 4th, 1865, Iota proposed that a diploma plate * should be made for the fraternity, and that each member upon becoming a college graduate should receive a diploma from his chapter. As yet but four chapters have voted for and one against the proposition.

M ay 11 th, 1865, we received a communication from D. J. Jenkins, of Auburn, N. Y ., informing us that he designed pub­ lishing a work to be entitled “ Secret Societies in Colleges,” in which he designed to set forth in a favorable light as much of the histories of all the first class Greek associations of this country as they should deem expedient to submit to him for the purpose, and requesting a sketch of the history of Beta Theta Pi for the proposed work. We submitted the proposition to the various chapters, and by November 25, 1865, all but two of the chapters then in communication with us having voted in favor of the proposition, we forwarded instructions to each chapter to prepare its history and were considering whom we should select to com­ pile the sketches into a general history of the order, when we received notice from Mr. Jenkins, that owing to certain unfore­ seen contingencies he would not be able to publish the proposed work.

September 20, 1865, there being but one member at Alpha, we relieved him of the arduous duty of publishing the catalogue.

We received the manuscript comprising the lists of all the chap­ ters, excepting Beta, Lambda prime, Sigma prime, Chi prime.

Some of these lists, however, were incomplete, and the lists of the Southern chapters had to be replaced by revised ones, as soon as we heard from the chapters. Owing to our inability to obtain a correct list of Lambda prime, and several questions hav­ ing arisen in regard to the “ Roll of Honor,”-and affixing military titles to the names of members (which questions will probably be discussed by the body now addressed), it was decided, after * This idea is the germ of our present “ shingle.”

q8

THE M I N U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

obtaining the sanction of a majority of the chapters, to delay the publication till after the Convention. We have now correct lists of all chapters except Lambda and Chi, and those will be in our hands in a few days. A t the burning of Pike’s Opera House, the engraved plate for the frontispiece was lost, but we do not antici­ pate any delay from this, as another plate will be furnished by the time the body of the work is ready for the press.

And now at the close of our administration, we would take the present opportunity to return to each chapter, through its delegate, our acknowledgment for the prompt assistance given us whenever needed and their cheerful acquiescence in all our decisions. We would congratulate our sisters on the progress that has been made in the last year, the present encouraging state of affairs, and the unanimity and brotherly love that prevail throughout the order. We would not claim that the prosperity of the fraternity is the result of the endeavors of Iota, and will only hope that our shortcomings may be passed over without censure, and that if at any time we may have committed a mistake, or offended any brother, our failings will be attributed to our desire for the welfare of the whole order.

G e o r g e L. S p i n n i n g ,

Hanover '67.

B y order of the chapter,

(Iota’s Seal)

W. W. E a s t m a n , J r ., Assistant Secretary.

An enthusiastic vote of thanks was unanimously awarded to the presiding chapter and to Brother Spinning.

The Committee on Constitution report as follows: Your Committee on Constitution consider that the Constitu­ tion should be positive and all copies should be alike, and for this purpose we recommend a few corrections to some of the copies as follows: That all be made to read in Sec. 2nd, Article 3: “ For the purpose of recognition between the members, the Association shall have a grip and password and these shall in no case be committed to paper. “ Art. 5, Sec. 1: The officers of each chapter shall be a President, Recorder, and two Corresponding Secretaries, who shall be elected semi-annually, etc., etc.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

99

“ Art. 5, Sec. 3: The duties of the Recorder shall be to keep regular minutes of the proceedings of the chapter, to take charge of all its property, and to do all writing for the chapter not other­ wise provided for. “ Art. 5, Sec. 4: The duties of the Corresponding Secretaries shall be to carry on a system of monthly correspondence with the other chapters for the promotion of a regular interchange of information and sympathy. “ Art. 10, Sec. 1: There shall be an annual Convention of delegates from all the chapters, each chapter sending at least one representative, with as many more as it may deem advisable, but a delegation from a single chapter having but one vote. “ Art. 2, Sec. 3: There shall be a presiding chapter chosen at each annual Convention, which shall be made the depository of particular information in regard to each chapter, to whom all propositions requiring the action of the Association shall be sub­ mitted, and by whom the decisions of the chapters shall be ob­ tained and transmitted to the several chapters, and which shall be the centre of all business correspondence. “ Art. 2, Sec. 3: New chapters shall be established, and charters and copies of the Constitution furnished only by the presiding chapter, or by its order, and no chapter shall recog­ nize a new chapter until informed of its establishment by the presiding chapter. “ Art. 7, Sec. 2: After the alphabet shall have been exhausted, the priority of the chapters shall be indicated by commencing at the first of the alphabet and repeating the letters, as ‘A A ,’ ‘B B ,’ pronounced ‘Alpha Alpha,’ ‘Beta Beta,’ etc., and hereafter should a chapter become defunct no chapter shall take its name.”

We recommend the passage of the following resolutions: “ Resolved, That all sections of the Constitution either in conflict with any of the above or covering the same points be and are hereby annulled.”

We also recommend that all laws passed by this and previous Conventions be compiled and sent to each chapter by the pre­ siding chapter. We also recommend that the following be made one of the laws of Beta Theta Pi: The priority of the chapters shall be determined according to the date of foundation, and not by the letters of the alphabet.

100

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

We also recommend that each chapter endeavor to perfect its copy of the Constitution and adhere strictly to all its pro­ visions.

Respectfully submitted, O . R. B r o u s e , Chairman.

Brother Harvey Young was received as Gamma’s delegate— though not regularly constituted such by Gamma.

The report of the Committee on Constitution was received by separate articles and sections under a call for the Ayes and Nays. All were passed unanimously, or by decided majorities, except the section relating to making the Convention annual instead of biennial, which barely was passed by a vote of 7 to 5.

A t four o’clock the Convention adjourned to half past eight.

M ay 2, 1866.

The Convention assembled at 9 o’clock in the reception rooms of the Spencer House, and was opened with songs by the Brothers and prayer by Brother Rogers.

Brother Black, the poet selected for the occasion, then read his poem, entitled “ Cedar Creek.” The attention which the reading of its half-hour length received was most flattering, and was justified by the merit of the production, demonstrating that Beta Theta Pi need not go out of her own ranks to engage a poet of the highest order. It was immediately and unanimously car­ ried that a committee of three be appointed to publish Brother Black’s poem as soon as possible. Brothers Brouse, Carnahan and Monfort were selected. The Convention awarded a hearty and enthusiastic vote of thanks to Brother Black.

Carried that copies of the Gazette of Cincinnati and Journal of Indianapolis, promising to have full reports of the Convention, be procured by Brothers Monfort and Finch and sent to Kappa, to be forwarded to the several chapters.

A t ten o’clock the Brothers formed and proceeded to the dining room to transact business at which all Greeks are adepts.

There was nothing lacking in the good spirits of the Brothers, the excellent provision for refreshment, the kindness of the hotel managers to make the occasion long to be remembered for its joviality and universal good feeling. But the hours flew as fast

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

101

as the wit and wisdom, and it was soon necessary to gain order to listen to the toasts and responses as follows: ‘ ‘ Our Native Land, ’ ’ response by Brother Jewett; “ The Army and N avy,” response

by Col. Dodge; “ Our poet, whose worth is only equalled by his modesty;” gracefully responded to by Col. Black; “ Our old members the Patriarchs of the Fraternity,” response by Dr. Stevens; “ Our College Memories,” response by Judge Herron of Alpha. The “ Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, may she, armed with the divine power of love, walk forth upon the troubled waters of our national existence, bid them, Peace, be still, call prosperity from the buried past, confidence from our Association, and bestow universal joy upon our Country,” drunk standing; response by Brother Carnahan.

Brother Ewing (Mu) in a feeling speech proposed “His Chapter,” response by Brother Brouse. After singing “ Our Founders” as only Betas can sing, the Convention adjourned to the parlors to transact some unfinished business.

The Committee on Chapters reported as follows: Alpha, though small, is composed of good men, all true to the principle “ let the chapter go down, rather than take in one unworthy of Beta Theta Pi;” her prospects are pretty good.

Beta numbers eight, with good prospects for next year.

Gamma has a goodly number, and her future prospects, though hazy, are, we think, good.

Delta has a good number, and her prospects never seemed brighter. The amount of timber is very large. She endorses fully Alpha’s motto.

Epsilon being one of the Southern chapters has not yet been resuscitated, but we fondly expect that she will soon again be one of our lively sisters.

Zeta is another of our Southern sisters not yet reorganized, and the prospect for her reorganization is not flattering.

Eta— another Southern sister not heard from.

Theta numbers thirteen members, prospects very good.

Iota, our former presiding chapter, is in good condition, but has not at present the brightest prospects for next year. The status of the college is poor.

Kappa, the present presiding chapter, is in good condition, influence strong, and prospects good.

102

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

Lambda. We hope soon to have a new chapter at the Michigan University, but hope she may be christened with a new name, so that the letter and word Lambda may continue to be a reproach throughout eternal ages.

Mu, another reorganized Southern sister, has fifteen mem­ bers, and reports a clear horizon.

TVT Nu, our baby, numbers ten, and has good prospects before her. M ay she be able to deliver the “ clouts” to her successor “ untarnished.”

X i is in splendid working order and her future is very promis­ ing.

Omicron, though not represented in the Convention, we are assured is alive and having some seventeen members “ rules the roost” in the first college of the South. She has been re-estab­ lished within the last year and reports well.

Pi reports a fine condition of affairs and most flattering prospects.

Rho, another southern chapter in Virginia, along with her sister Omicron, seems to be full of the right spirit. She numbe s some eleven members.

Sigma is defunct and the college nearly so.

Tau reports well and has fine prospects for the future. We wish we had several more as true as Tau. Upsilon, at Columbia, S. C., and Phi at Davidson College, are not yet heard from since the war.

Chi at Ogelthorpe, Milledgeville, Ga., is now being re­ established with every promise of success.

Psi, at Bethany, has not been heard from for some time. On account of strictness of college regulations there, she will probably go down.

Omega has not been heard from for some time. Things look dark for her, the officers in the Naval Academy being so directly opposed to any secret order.

We find as active members of the order at present about 165 as far as we can know— there may be more. Thirteen chapters are represented in this Convention and two, Omicron and Rho, not represented, are alive and prosperous.

We congratulate the Convention and the order on the favor­ * This refers to the chapter at Monmouth College.

THE M I N U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

103

able condition of its affairs and especially that our sisters of the Southern States, who have often proved themselves worthy of Beta during this war by signal and noble Greek acts of their members, are being rapidly revived in all parts of .the South.

We recommend that the establishment of new chapters all over the country, and especially the West and South, and the re­ establishment of our defunct and dormant chapters, be pushed forward energetically and yet cautiously. We suggest that too much care cannot be taken in establishing chapters and selecting members that Beta Theta Pi may remain as pure as mortals can keep her.

Respectfully submitted, O . R. B r o u s e , Chairman.

The Committee on Finances and Arrangements report as follows: “ The necessary arrangements were made for the delivery of the address, the reading of poem, and the social entertainment given in the dining room.”

The finances are as follows: To circulars, stationery and stamps................................... $ 9.25 Banquet..................................................................................

58.50 To Brother Black’s expense................................................. 20.00 T o t a l ..........................................................................

Submitted by E. R. M

$87.75

o n fo rt,

F erd C . I glehart, O . T. G i l l e t t ,

Committee.

It was moved and carried that each delegate pay to the chairman of the Committee on Finance and Arrangements the sum of eight dollars.

The presiding chapter was empowered to change the name of Nu from Nu to Alpha Alpha, if Nu desire it. Motion was carried that the presiding chapter decide who is entitled to the Orator and Poet arbitrarily.

104

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866

The following resolution was then introduced and carried after much discussion by an Aye and Nay vote of eight to three. “ Whereas, Wm. Stevens of Theta chapter is not worthy to bear the name and wear the badge of Beta Theta Pi, and, “ Whereas, he was admitted to Theta chapter when one of her members was not present and did not vote, therefore, “ Resolved, That we hereby declare him unconstitutionally elected and, therefore, not a member of Beta Theta Pi.” The President’s valedictory then followed and the Conven­ tion adjourned to meet at Indianapolis on the second Tuesday in April, 1867.

In closing our rather extended minutes we cannot refrain from congratulating the brotherhood on the success which has attended the labors of their Convention, on the numbers present, both delegates and non-delegates, in and out of college, on the cordiality with which all were received because they were brothers in the truest bonds of Beta Theta Pi, on the unanimity and en­ thusiasm so heartily displayed. Probably no Convention before has had as difficult and delicate questions to discuss and decide as the present, but they were grappled with in a generous and brotherly spirit; hearts were brought to the work, and if errors were committed, they were of the head. The Convention then, with a clear conscience, submits this, the programme of its action, for the approval or disapprobation of the several chapters.

T. R u s k , President.

F. S. H a n f o r d , Secretary.

F. C. I g l e h a r t , Assistant Secretary.

J.

This was the first convention to which the presiding chapter made a report. It was also the first convention at which the Committee on Chap­ ters made a report in detail of the condition of the several chapters, and its report showed that the chapters were beginning to be revived in the South and were recovering elsewhere from the period of depression incident to the war.

Just prior to this time, the Washington College at Washington, Pa., was consolidated with the Jefferson College at Canonsburg, Pa., under the name of Washington & Jefferson College. The Gamma Chapter was at Jefferson and the Nu chapter at Washington, and for some years there was confusion about the name of the consolidated chapter. The site of the con­ solidated college was at Washington, Pa., and for that reason many Betas thought that the chapter should be called Nu, and that the Gamma should

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1866 be considered as having become extinct— but the adherents of the Jefferson chapter argued that it was still the Gamma Chapter as before. Finally, for a while it was called Gamma Nu, and then sensibly enough the title Gamma was chosen and has been used ever since. For a short time the Monmouth chapter was called “ N u ” and it is so designated in the minutes of this 1866 convention, but after this date it at once took the name Alpha Alpha.

The desertion of the chapter at the University of Michigan profoundly affected the fraternity in one way, namely, it created a deep suspicion of the men attending eastern colleges which was accentuated by the desertion of the Western Reserve chapter to Delta Kappa Epsilon in 1868, and it resulted in the extension of Beta Theta Pi for the next ten years to colleges west of the Alleghenies— and not of the first rank, at least at that time. The best equipped and best endowed colleges were then in the Eastern States and naturally Beta Theta Pi was anxious to place chapters in them, but seeing that its chapters at Brown and Williams had been induced to desert by Alpha Delta Phi and its chapter at Michigan by Psi Upsilon, these being then the leading Eastern fraternities, the opinion prevailed that the Eastern college men were not square and honest. It was a long time before the Betas realized that the college men of the East could not be judged by the actions of these two fraternities.

^ttlnutas of tt)e (Convention of 1867 Synopsis of the minutes of the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi, held at Indianapolis, Indiana, on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 9th and 10th of April, 1867.

O FFICER S OF TH E CO N VEN TIO N President, General John Coburn of Tau (Wabash); Vice President, John Overmeyer of Delta (Indiana Asbury); Secre­ tary, L. B. Wilson of Pi (Indiana); Assistant Secretary, James R. Carnahan of Tau (Wabash).

General Coburn on taking the chair delivered a very eloquent nd stirring address.

The delegates were: Miami, E. S. Scott; Western Reserve, H. H. Rice; Indiana Asbury, John Overmeyer, C. F. Goodwin; Wabash, John Coburn, J. R. Carnahan; Indiana, L. B. Wilson; Ohio, D. H. Moore; Cumberland, H. H. Lurton.

The following resolution was passed: Resolved, That when this convention adjourns, it adjourns to meet at Mammoth Cave, K y., on the second Tuesday in July 1868 (i.e., July 14th, 1868).

The following named gentlemen were appointed a committee to report on the propriety and practicability of building a Beta Temple at Oxford, Ohio. David H. Moore, Chairman, C. F. Goodwin, H. H. Rice, E. S. Scott, and H. H. Lurton.

Report of Committee on building Temple.

Your committee to whom was referred the subject of build­ ing a Beta Temple at Oxford, Ohio, beg leave to report: “ 1st. That we regard the project as entirely practicable and expedient. “ 2nd. That we regard Oxford, Ohio, all things considered, the most suitable place for its location. “ 3rd. That we recommend to the convention to take measures to inaugurate the movement at once.”

(Signed) D. H. M o o r e , Chairman.

10 7

io8

THE MINUTES O F THE CONVENTION OF 1867

On motion, the report was received and adopted.

This committee was instructed to proceed to the collection of funds for the building of the said temple, to be commenced when two thirds of the amount ($10,000) shall have been paid and all subscribed.

The following Amendments to the Constitution were adopted. For Article 2nd, Section 1st, the following was sub­ stituted : This association shall be composed of chapters established at such colleges, cities and towns as may be deemed worthy by three-fourths of the existing chapters, and shall possess concurrent powers, except that the chapters out of the colleges shall have no power to elect or initiate new members, and shall be named in the order of their establishment, the chapters out of the col­ leges being designated as Alumni Chapters.”

To Article 10th, Section 1st: Immediately after the words “ in the convention,” the closing words of said section, add: “ In this Convention all who have borne the name of Beta Theta Pi without reproach shall be admitted to all the privileges of delegates, except the right to vote upon questions upon which a vote by chapters is required. The President of the Convention may be chosen from the alumni, but all other officers shall be regular [undergraduate] delegates.”

The following resolutions were passed: “ Resolved, That the words of our motto and passwords * * * * shall be entirely erased from all records of the fraternity, leaving all definitions of said words the same as at present.”

General John Cobum, President.

L. B. Wilson, Secretary.

James R. Carnahan, Assistant Secretary.

The above synopsis was received from the Secretary of the presiding chapter, Mu, and contains all action of consequence taken in the Convention.

R. S. Devol, Recording Secretary, Kappa.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1867

log

We have only the synopsis of the minutes of this convention, having never been able to discover a full and unabbreviated set of the minutes.

The matter of building a Beta temple was broached at this conven­ tion, and continued to occupy the attention of the fraternity for some years, until it was finally dropped as undesirable if not impracticable. The idea seemed to be to establish at Oxford, Ohio, a building of Greek design, called a “ temple,” in which should be deposited the records and archives of the fra­ ternity. It is difficult to learn just precisely what was intended in detail, and possibly the details were never worked out as the funds to erect the building were never secured. It certainly was not intended to be a chapter house.

So far as we know the amendment to the constitution at this convention, establishing alumni chapters, was the first legislation on the subject by any college fraternity. Theta Delta Chi had a graduate chapter in New York City as early as 1856, but it admitted members and so did the so-called “ Com­ munity ” chapters of Alpha Tau Omega established in 1866. Neither of these were alumni chapters in our present use of the term.

52tinutes of tl)e Convention of 1868 Senate Chamber, Nashville, Tenn.

J u ly 14, 1868.

The delegates met at 10 o’clock A. M., and on motion of Brother Hamilton Parks, delegate from Mu (Cumberland) Chapter, Brother C. F. Moody, Alumnus of Mu was called to the chair pro tem.

The convention was opened with prayer by the Rev. H. B. Boude, Alumnus of Epsilon. Brother Parks of Mu was elected Secretary pro tem.

On motion, the following were appointed a Committee on Credentials: J. W. Allison, of Rho (Washington, Va.); C. H. Little, of Tau (Wabash); and W. H. Johnson, of Delta (Indiana Asbury).

They reported the following delegates present: W. L. John­ son, Delta; A. L. Robertson, Zeta; C. E. Stanley, Theta; Hamilton Parks, Mu; J. W. Allison, Rho; C. H. Little, Tau; T. H. Cahal, Zeta Zeta (Nashville Alumni); J. W. Lovett, Delta.

The Chairman appointed as a Committee on Permanent Organization, Allison, Rho; Little, Tau; Stanley, Theta; Parks, Mu; Johnson, Delta; Cahal, Zeta Zeta.

R. L. Caruthers, of Mu, was elected permanent President of the Convention. Secretaries: H. L. Bentley, S. R. Cockrill and W. S. Davis.

On motion of Brother Cahal, Brothers Johnson and Little conducted the President-elect to the Chair, and on taking his seat he delivered a short, appropriate and forceful address.

Brother H. B. Boude was elected Chaplain of the Conven­ tion.

On motion, the Minutes of the last Convention were read, approved and accepted.

On inquiry, the following alumni members were found to be present: George A. Howard, Mu; Ferdinand C. Maury, Mu; E. W. Hoge, Gamma; Jno. L. Yargan, Alpha; James W. Blackmore, Mu; Newton J. Finney, Mu; Gates P. Thruston, Alpha;; h i

112

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

H. B. Boude, Epsilon; Walter S. Draper, Mu; and many others whose names the Secretary failed to ascertain.

Brother Cahal of Zeta Zeta moved that Brothers Allison, Johnson and Little be continued as a Committee of Credentials during the session of the Convention. Motion carried.

Brother Boude desired the President to state what would be proper for him to report to the newspapers in regard to the Convention. The President declining to decide the matter with­ out first hearing the opinion of the house, Brother Thruston, Alumnus of Alpha, offered a motion, which prevailed, to the effect that any delegate wishing to report any of the proceedings of the Convention may take notes, but such notes must be sub­ mitted to the secretaries, and if approved of by them, such reports may be published.

The President next assigned to the Alumni members present, seats on the floor. Brother Cahal, of Zeta Zeta, was next in­ structed by the President to read the minutes of the Convention which met at Indianapolis, which he proceeded to do. Brother Johnson moved that a committee of five be appointed to prepare an order of exercises for this convention. Motion carried, and Brothers Johnson, Thruston, Maury, Little and Boude were appointed.

On motion of Brother Jones the convention then adjourned to meet at 3 o’clock, P. M. Evening Session, July 14, 1868.

The President called the Convention to order, and the roll of delegates having been called, two of the representatives were found to be absent.

The report of the committee appointed to prepare an order of exercises for the Convention was called for by the President, and the committee offered the following: To the officers and members of the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity: Your Committee on the order of business have the honor to report the following: 1. The report of the presiding chapter.

2. The appointment of a committee of three, on Consti­ tution.

3. The appointment of a committee of three on chapters.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

113

4. The appointment of a committee of three on arrange­ ments for the oration of Brother Blackmore.

5. The Committee of the whole on ritual and general interests of the order.

We recommend that the several committees report in the order in which they are appointed. We further recommend that the Committee on entertainment be continued as appointed by the resident Greeks.

F. C. Maury, W. L. Johnson, H. B. Boude, G. P. Thruston, C. H. Little.

The report of the Committee was adopted.

The report of the presiding chapter having been called for, Brother Parks on behalf of that body presented the following report: To the delegates of the Beta Theta Pi in Convention assembled, Greeting: We, the presiding chapter of your fraternity, have the honor to submit the following report as to its condition and prospects.

Perhaps never since our Association sprang into existence has the star of Betaism shown so brightly as now. Our banner is slowly but surely and steadily advancing wherever virtue and intelligence lead the way. Year by year we are sending out into active life numbers of our noble brothers, and wherever they are called, whatever part they are called to play in the grand drama, they are found at the post of duty, laboring with uncompromising energy, and looking forward to the bright laurels of glory that await them in the future. “ Onward and upward” is the motto of every true Greek, and with the propitious smiles of Heaven to cheer us, we press on in our triumphant course to the day soon to come when the glory of Betaism shall encompass the world.

We have first to report that a greater degree of promptness is needed in the correspondence required by our Constitution.

Although this correspondence has been comparatively regular, yet several chapters do not by any means come up to the full

114

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

requirements of the constitution. We would recommend that measures be instituted by the Convention to secure a full com­ pliance with our laws in that respect.

We learn from our correspondence that all our active chap­ ters are in a flourishing condition. However, in regard to some of the chapters a little more vigor and energy would add greatly to their prosperity and well being.

A sufficient number of votes has been given for the estab­ lishment of chapters at the following places, v iz : at Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri; at the Iowa Wesleyan University, M t. Pleasant, Iowa; and at Yale College, New Haven, Connect­ icut, and for the establishment of Alumni Chapters at Nashville, Tenn., and at Clarksville, Tenn.

The chapters at Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri, and at Iowa Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, have been established, and from what we know of them we are qualified to report their condition as prosperous as we could desire. The chapter at Westminster College was named Delta Delta, and the Chapter at Iowa Wesleyan University has received the name of Epsilon Epsilon. The Alumni Chapter at Nashville, Tenn., has been organized and named Zeta Zeta. The Alumni chapter at Clarksville, Tenn., has not yet been organized, but we hope soon to see it enrolled as E ta Eta. The organization of the Chapter at Yale College was placed in the hands of Brother George H. Perkins, who is now a student in that College. He has recently informed us that existing circumstances render its organization at present impracticable. We hope that the matter will be attended to at the opening of the Fall term, 1868, of that School, and that the standard of our noble order will be planted in the East.

None of the defunct chapters have been reorganized during the past year, but we hope that during the next year all will be reorganized on a firm basis.

From the minutes of the last convention we learned that a movement had been placed on foot to establish a chapter at the University of Mississippi at Oxford, Mississippi. We have been unable to ascertain anything further on that subject, and conse­ quently said chapter has not been organized. We would, how­ ever, recommend this institution as being in every way a most

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

115

desirable location for a chapter, and hope that the next presiding chapter will direct special attention to this subject.

Gamma chapter at Washington, Penn., reported to us sev­ eral months since that the college authorities had suppressed secret societies, but our president decided against this right, and ordered correspondence to be kept up, Gamma retaining her vote upon all questions. She has been at a standstill since then, having taken in no new members. We wish the Convention to take the matter under consideration.

A very favorable proposition was received from Rho chapter to organize a new chapter at the Virginia Military Institute, but on submitting it to the vote of the chapters, it was rejected. We think that the reasons in favor of establishing a chapter at that place were not sufficiently explained to the other chapters, there­ fore we hope the Convention will consider the matter.

We recently received a proposition from Omicron for the establishment of new chapters at the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and at Washington University, St. Louis, Mis­ souri. The prospects arte very flattering, especially at the first named place. The proposition came so late that we had not time to submit it to the various chapters, and so we lay it before your honorable body hoping that it will receive particular attention.

We desire to see chapters organized at all the principal colleges of the South, as these institutions are supplied with young men of great moral and intellectual worth, consequently, we believe a glorious field is here opened for the extension of our beloved Fraternity.

A proposition originated in the Presiding (Mu) chapter some time since to change the place of meeting of the Convention from Mammoth Cave, K y., to Nashville, Tenn. The Cave was considered a place unsuitable for holding a convention, owing to the want of a hall to meet in, etc. The proposition was carried b y a vote of the Chapters, and we immediately notified all the chapters.

The presiding chapter would respectfully call your attention to the importance of taking some action towards adopting a uniform form of initiation. A t present each chapter arranges its own form, and as a natural consequence no two chapters have the same form of initiation. All well organized and well regulated

h

6

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

Fraternities we believe have the same form of initiation in all their chapters, and we earnestly hope the subject will not be overlooked by your honorable body.

There is still another important matter which we would urge upon the consideration of this body, viz: the adoption of a grand seal of the Order. Each chapter at present has its own individual seal, but the idea has occurred to us that it would be better to have one Grand Seal to be kept by the Presiding Chapter, the impress of which should be stamped on all impor­ tant documents emanating from the order at large. The chapter seals may and should be still preserved by the several chapters, but only such documents as emanate from or belonging exclu­ sively to the Chapters should be stamped by them.

The importance of establishing a Beta Magazine was spoken of in our last convention, but action on the matter was deferred until this meeting; we would therefore suggest that the matter be attended to if possible.

A committee was appointed also at the last Convention to inquire as to the expediency of having published a book of Beta songs and it is earnestly hoped by your presiding chapter that the plan be carried into successful operation.

There are other matters of importance which have been dis­ cussed in some of our sister chapters and which meet with our approval; we hope that they will meet with favorable considera­ tion by you.

We are deeply sensible of the high honor conferred upon us in being called upon to act as your Presiding Chapter. We have endeavored to prove ourselves worthy of the great trust reposed in us, but if we have in any respect failed to meet the requisitions made at our hands, we can only ask the kind indulgence of our Brothers, feeling at the same time that we have faithfully en­ deavored to advance the permanent interests in our noble Order.

For the honor conferred upon us we tender our sincere thanks, and in conclusion we would humbly invoke the blessings of High Heaven upon our Fraternity, individually and collec­ tively. M ay it withstand the storms of time, and when its star shall at last disappear, “ may it sit as the morning star which goes not down behind the darkened west, but melts away in the brightness of Heaven.”

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

117

J. L. Rosseau, President, N. J. Tierney, Recorder, W. B. Campbell, Corresponding Secretary, of Mu Chapter.

The report as presented was on motion adopted, and the Convention then passed a vote of thanks to Mu Chapter for the able and faithful manner in which she had discharged her trust as presiding chapter.

Brother Robertson of Zeta next moved that the Committee on Oration be appointed; motion carried, and Brothers Terry H. Cahal, Ferdinand C. Maury, and A. L. Robertson were ap­ pointed, who after consultation offered a verbal report to the following effect: that they deemed it best that Brother Blackmore’s oration be delivered to-morrow evening in the Hall of Representatives, and that the public be invited to attend. The report was on motion adopted.

Moved and carried that brother Robertson be requested to prepare and present to the morning papers of the city for pub­ lication a brief synopsis of the history of our Order.

Brother Cahal offered the following resolutions relative to the death of Brother Frank Read of Kappa (Ohio, ’ 70).

Whereas, the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity in Convention assembled have just heard of the recent death of Brother Frank Read of Kappa Chapter, at Athens, Ohio: therefore, Be it resolved, That we tender to our brothers of Kappa chapter our fraternal sorrow and deep regret in their late bereave­ ment.

Be it further resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of our deceased brother as expressive of our deepest sorrow and sympathy with them.

These resolutions were adopted.

On motion, the convention then adjourned until to-morrow at 9 o’clock.

Wednesday morning, July 15, 1868.

A t the appointed hour, Brother R. L. Caruthers, President of the Convention, called the House to order, and the exercises were opened by Brother H. B. Boude, Chaplain.

Several new delegates made their appearance, and were instructed by the chair to refer their credentials to the Committee

n8

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

yesterday appointed.

This committee than presented the following names, which were ordered to be enrolled among the list of delegates.

P. N. Moore, Alpha {Miami); P. A. Otis, Beta (Western Reserve); Harry C. Warren, Iota (Hanover); Z. W. Ewing, Omicron (Virginia); O. W. Shryer, Iota (Hanover).

Brother Boude came forward, asking a seat as a delegate from Epsilon chapter, but as that chapter was considered defunct by the Fraternity, several brothers thought it could not be entitled to representation and Brother Boude as her delegate.

On motion, the report of the Committee was adopted by the Convention.

The minutes of yesterday were read, and on motion adopted.

Brother Bently was compelled to be absent from the Con足 vention, and offered his resignation as Secretary, which was accepted.

The convention next proceeded to the selection of a Secre足 tary, which resulted in the choice of Brother Harry Warren of Iota.

On motion of Brother Cahal the Convention passed a vote of thanks to Brother Bently.

The Committee on Credentials reported the following addi足 tional delegates: J. D. Glass, Beta Beta (Iowa University); Eli Caruthers, Alpha Alpha (Monmouth).

On motion, the House preceded to the regular order of busi足 ness.

The following committees were appointed: on Constitution, Johnson, Little, Cahal; on Chapters, Moore, Ewing, Boude; on Publication, Stanley, Otis, Shryer; on Greek Characters, Glass, Caruthers, Robertson. On motion, a Committee on Finance was appointed. Brother Allison was substituted in place of Brother Glass on the Committee on Greek Characters, by request of Brother Glass. Guild, Maury, Blackmore, were named the Committee on Finance.

On motion, a committee was appointed to present to the Convention a design of a Coat of Arms and Grand Seal for the use of the Fraternity at Large, and the following were appointed: Allison, Moore, Stanley, Otis and Lovett.

On motion, a recess of twenty minutes was taken.

A motion prevailed that a committee of five on Ritual be

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

119

appointed, and Brothers Parks, Moore, Otis, Lovett and Caruthers were appointed.

The report of the Committee on arrangements for the oration was adopted.

On motion, two ushers were appointed and instructed t° reserve two seats for each delegate. Brothers Davis and Cahal were appointed as ushers.

The report of the Committee on Publication was then made as follows: Your Committee on Publication respectfully submit the following: Resolved, 1st, that Beta Chapter be instructed to compile and publish a selection of Beta Theta Pi songs.

2nd. That the minutes of this Convention, also of the annual conventions held at Indianapolis and Cincinnati, be published, and the Secretary of the Convention be instructed to furnish a copy to the Committee on Publication.

All of which is submitted by your Committee.

P. A. E. C.

Ot is ,

President.

St a n l e y ,

O. W . Sh r y e r ,

Secretaries.

On motion, the report was adopted with the following addi­ tion offered by Brother Thruston.

Resolved, That each chapter be instructed to send to Beta Chapter any songs they may desire inserted in the new book, and that a selection therefrom be made by the Committee which Beta Chapter may designate.

The report of the Committee on Constitution was next made.

(The report is herewith filed marked “ A .” ) Convention adjourned until 2 o’clock.

Afternoon session, July 15, 1868.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment.

The President read a dispatch from Brother David H. Moore, chairman of Temple Building Committee. On motion, said Committee was discharged and the building of a temple post­ poned indefinitely. A vote of thanks was tendered to the said

120

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

Committee for the able and efficient manner in which they have discharged their duty.

The Report of Committee on Chapters was read, and on motion, adopted (and herewith filed marked “ B ” ).

On motion, the report of the Committee on Constitution was taken up and considered article by article.

A motion that there be incorporated into the Constitution the Article which the Committee designate as Article 12, referring to the form and necessity of legal credentials of delegates to Convention, and also the article designated Article 13, for the raising of a sinking fund, after lengthy discussion, prevailed with but one negative vote. “ The Article in the Constitution of this Association which heretofore has been known as Article 12 shall hereafter be known as Article 14.”

The minority report authorizing Alumni Chapters to initiate outsiders was defeated by an overwhelming vote.

The Committee on Ritual then made its report, and on motion this was received, discussed and adopted, and the convention recommended its adoption by the chapters, and the Presiding Chapter was directed to transmit a copy to each Chapter of the Order.

On motion, leave of absence was granted to Brother Boude.

House adjourned until 9 o’clock A. M. proximo.

Thursday morning, July 16, 1868.

The Convention met pursuant to adjournment.

Brother R. L. Caruthers, President of the Convention, called the House to order.

The minutes of yesterday’s meeting were read, and on motion were approved.

On motion, the thanks of the Association were tendered to Brother Blackmore for his able, eloquent and beautiful address delivered to the Fraternity, last evening in the Hall of Repre­ sentatives.

A motion, prevailed that a copy of the address be called for and published with the minutes. Also that the address be pub­ lished in the Nashville Banner. Brother Robertson was appointed committee therefor.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

121

On motion, a Committee was appointed to publish in the Nashville Banner a succinct account of such of our proceedings in Convention as may fittingly be made public; also of the enter­ tainment this evening. Brothers Robertson, Maury and Hoge were appointed such committee. On motion, an assessment was made to defray expenses. Brother Robertson appointed therefor.

Upon a motion, the selection of a city wherein shall be held the Convention of 1869 was taken up, and the following places proposed: Louisville, K y., Springfield, O., Columbus, O., Clarks­ ville, Tenn.

Springfield, Ohio, was selected as the place for the meeting of the aforesaid convention by a two-thirds vote. On motion, the vote was made unanimous. The seventh day of July, 1869, was selected as the time therefor.

The Report of the Committee on Greek characters was made, and being incomplete, upon their suggestion, the entire subject was referred to Beta chapter and they were requested to furnish the Presiding Chapter an explanation of all of the Greek Charac­ ters in our Catalogue and of the Frontispiece.

On motion of Brother Warren, the following was adopted: That the action of the Convention admitting Brother Boude as a delegate from Epsilon having full privileges on the floor, was the result of special circumstances, and should not be taken as a precedent.

On motion, the following resolutions were passed: Resolved, That the delegates of this Convention be requested to lay before their respective chapters the question of establishing a chapter at the Virginia Military Institute, and explain the points in favor thereof which strike us as very favorable thereto.

A resolution as follows unanimously passed: Resolved, That the convention of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity tender our thanks to Captain Heiberger and the State Authorities for the kindness they have manifested by allowing us the use of the Legislative Halls in the Capitol Building, and for all other courtesies extended.

Resolved, That this Convention tender to Mrs. Gov. A. V. Brown our thanks for her kindness in extending the hospitalities of her house to the brothers of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity.

122

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

B y motion, the above resolutions were directed to be pub­ lished in the Nashville C ity papers.

Resolutions as follows, unanimously passed: Resolved, That we, the delegates to the National Convention of Beta Theta Pi, tender our thanks to the Brothers of the alumni chapter of Nashville and the Presiding chapter for the kind and courteous manner in which they have received us and for their unwearied devotion to our comfort and pleasure.

Resolved, That the Fraternity of Beta Theta Pi, in conven­ tion assembled, tender our thanks to Brother R. L. Caruthers, our able President; to Brother Harry C. Warren, our Secretary, and his assistants, Brothers S. R. Cockrill and Walter Scott Davis; to our energetic Sergeants-at-Arms, Brothers Hoge and Maury; and Brother C. E. Moody, our temporary chairman, for the prompt, affable and diligent manner in which they have dis­ charged the onerous duties which have devolved upon them.

The report of Committee on Coat of Arms and Grand Seal was submitted to the House, and by their request the entire matter was referred to Alpha Chapter, to be submitted to the next annual Convention.

A t the instance of Brother Glass the report of Committee on Publication was reconsidered, and adopted after striking out the clause relative to the publication of the minutes of the Con­ ventions held at Cincinnati and Indianapolis.

Brother T. H. Cahal was unanimously selected to deliver a farewell address to the convention, which he did impromptu, in an able, eloquent and impressive manner, showing himself a live, generous and brilliant Greek.

On motion, fifty copies of the minutes of the Convention were ordered printed, the expense thereof to be assessed on the various chapters by the Presiding Chapter for the incoming year.

A motion prevailed that X i Chapter be the Presiding Chap­ ter of the Fraternity for the ensuing year.

After singing some glorious Beta songs, the Convention adjourned to meet at Springfield, Ohio, July 7, 1869.

R. L.

President.

W a r r e n , Secretary.

C aruth ers,

H arry C.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

123

(E X H IB IT A) TH E R E PO R T OF T H E C O M M IT T E E ON TH E CO N STITU TIO N A R T IC L E V III Sec. 1. This Association shall have a “ reserve fund,” raised in the manner, and appropriated to the purposes pre­ scribed in the future sections of this Article.

Sec. 2. Each member of this Order shall be assessed with a yearly tax of one dollar, said amount to be paid in the Treasury of the Chapter of which he is a member.

Sec. 3. If any member of this order, after leaving College, shall connect himself with any Alumni Chapter, he shall pay the yearly tax at the time and as provided in Sec. 2 of this Article into the Treasury of said Alumni Chapter, but if he should fail to connect himself with any Alumni Chapter he may be exempt from said yearly fee.

Sec. 4. The funds thus raised shall be forwarded to the National Convention of the Order by the different Chapters, in the manner deemed most practicable, which, when received, shall be in the hands of a committee appointed for that purpose by the Convention.

Sec. 5. These funds shall be used to defray all the necessary expenses of the convention, and for the defraying of any other expenses of a general nature by the Fraternity, as ordered alone by the Convention, but in no instance shall this fund be used for the payment of the expenses of any individual chapter.

Sec. 6. The balance of the funds remaining unexpended shall be placed, before the adjournment of every Convention, in the hands of the presiding chapter for the next year, who will take charge of the same, be held responsible for the safe keeping thereof, and hold it subject to the order of the Convention.

A R T IC L E X , SEC. 5 Sec. 1. Each delegate to any general Convention of this Association shall come duly accredited with credentials from his

124

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

respective chapter, signed by the President and Recording Secre­ tary thereof, and sealed with the Chapter Seal.

The credentials prescribed in this section shall be made out in the following form.

Hall of

Chapter, Beta Theta Pi.

.................................. State o f.......................

TO A L L WHOM IT M A Y CO N CERN : Know ye, that the bearer hereof, Brother .................., is duly authorized, commissioned and empowered to represent .................. Chapter, as her delegate at the National Convention of the Fraternity, to be holden i n .................., State o f ..............., on the day of , next ensuing, with full power to cast the vote of said Chapter on all questions coming before the Convention.

In testimony whereof we have hereunto subscribed our hands and affixed the seal of .............. Chapter, this . . . . day of .................. , 18. . . and in t h e .........year of the existence of our Order. .................. , President. .................. Chapter. .................. , Recording Secretary.

No delegate to any Convention of this Association shall be allowed to cast the vote of his chapter therein, unless he comes accredited as in this section provided, or unless permitted to do so by the consent of the Convention to which he has been sent as a delegate.

(E X H IB IT B) TH E R E P O R T OF TH E C O M M IT T E E ON CH APTER S Your Committee on Chapters would report as follows: Alpha Chapter, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, reports a favorable prospect both in spirit and numbers, having at present six good Greeks working for the cause, and bidding fair to con­ tinue in her career of usefulness.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

125

Beta, Western Reserve, Hudson, Ohio, reports a favorable condition, and sharp men to guard the secrets of our order.

Eleven Greeks banded for the good cause.

Gamma, Jefferson College, owing to the position of the barbarian faculty, is in a languishing condition, and will probably die, as all new students are pledged not to join secret organiza­ tions.

Delta, Indiana Asbury University, Greencastle, Ind., has a good reputation for morals, eleven good fellows who wear the emblem of our order over generous hearts.

Epsilon, at Centre College, K y., has at present no student members, and is kept alive in the noble breasts of resident Greeks.

Zeta, Hampden-Sidney College, has lately been reorganized with fair prospects. She has six members, who dare work in the face of barbarians.

Theta, Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, is doing well. She has eighteen members, who, if they stand the test of a warm vacation, will be made Greeks.

Iota, at Hanover College is unwell, and the Convention extends its sympathies to the solitary Greek, who now stands alone in his efforts .to do good. Should the condition of the col­ lege not improve, it would be best to suspend.

Kappa, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, is doing as well as she can under the circumstances. She has seven members, and her eyes are wide open for more good fellows.

To Mu Chapter, Cumberland University, as the presiding .chapter, we would respectfully lift the hat and say, “ Well done.”

She has presided with dignity and honor, and we thank her for her noble conduct, and good-looking Greeks. She has twenty as good fellows as ever outwitted the barbarians.

Xi, Knox College, Galesburg, 111., is in good condition, and working well.

Omicron, University of Virginia, has fourteen members and working as Greeks should.

Pi, Indiana University, has nine members, and as good fellows as ever ate at midnight.

Rho, Washington College, Va., has fourteen members, and the prospect for usefulness as good as any.

126

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1868

Tau, Wabash College, has eleven members splendidly equipped for the fray.

Alpha Alpha, Monmouth College, has eight members doing nobly.

Beta Beta, Iowa University, has sixteen members with heads up and making headway steadily against the opposition.

Gamma Gamma, Wittenberg College, has eighteen members doing work for the promotion of those principles hidden in the pleasing symbols of our Order.

Zeta Zeta, is an Alumni Chapter, with some bright stars which make the barbarian night in and about Nashville doubly dark.

Delta Delta, Westminster College, and Epsilon Epsilon, Iowa Wesleyan University, are two new chapters at colleges of good repute, and we expect a good report from them next year.

We would further congratulate the order upon the success of the presiding chapter in organizing the Chapters in the South, thus fulfilling the hopes of the last annual Convention.

We would also request the presiding chapter to push forward the matter of organizing the defunct chapters, and if possible put a chapter in each of the old colleges in the east.

Finally, we recommend vigilance and active correspondence as the sure means for the promotion of the objects of the order.

P. N. H. B .

Z. W.

M

oore,

B oude, E

w in g ,

Committee.

This is the first convention at which an'alumni chapter was represented.

Beginning in 1865, and for several years thereafter, the alumni chapters at Chicago, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Nashville, and Evansville (Indiana), exer­ cised considerable influence in the fraternity.

The use of exhibit letters to designate committee reports and docu­ ments first appeared in reports made to this convention, and so far as we can learn this is the first use of this simple and convenient device at any fraternity convention. Reference to documents as “ Exhibits” is, of course, an old practice in legal procedure.

^ttinutes of tfye Convention of 1869 Supreme Court Room, Columbus, Ohio.

July 7th, 1869.

The delegates met at 11 o’clock A. M. and, on motion of Brother R. V. Foster, of Mu Chapter, Brother Hugh Boyd, an Alumnus of Kappa Chapter, was called to the chair pro tem., and Brother Allison Maxwell of Pi Chapter was elected Secretary pro tem.

On motion, Brothers Foster of Mu, Brouse of Delta, and Wilson of Epsilon Epsilon, were appointed a Committee on Permanent Organization. On motion, Brothers Will of Kappa, Short of Alpha, and Thompson of Iota were appointed a Com­ mittee on Credentials.

Brother Foster of Mu, moved that a Committee of one be appointed to furnish for the city papers an account of any part of our proceedings that it might be proper to make public. An amendment to the effect that Brother Fullerton constitute that Committee was offered by Brother Brouse. Motion and amend­ ment both carried.

On motion, the convention adjourned until 1130 P. M. Afternoon Session.

The Convention was called to order by the President, and after devotional exercises, the Committee on Credentials reported the following delegates present.

J. W. Short, Alpha (Miami), E. H. Terrell and J. W. Lovett, Delta (Indiana Asbury); J. M. Thompson, Iota (Hanover); Henry C. Will, Kappa (Ohio); R. V. Foster, Mu (Cumberland); Allison Maxwell, Pi (Indiana); Henry B. Young, Alpha Alpha (Mon­ mouth); T. W. Shaw, Delta Delta (Westminster); W. G. Wilson, Epsilon Epsilon (Iowa Wesleyan); Henry A. Delano, E ta E ta (Denison); R. W. Smith (Williams), and Olin R. Brouse (Indiana Asbury), Alpha Alumni (Chicago).

On motion, Brother Shepard Barclay was received as dele­ gate from Omicron (Virginia), and Iota Iota (Washington, Mo.) 12 7

128

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

Chapters (his credentials not having arrived on account of irreg­ ularity in the mails).

On motion, the following report on permanent organization,, from the Committee appointed for that purpose, was adopted.

We, the Committee on Permanent Organization, beg leave to report as the officers of this Convention: For President, General Robert W. Smith, Williams, ’50, of Alpha Alumni. For Vice-President, Allison Maxwell of Pi. For Secretary, Henry B. Young of Alpha Alpha. Assistant Secretary, J. M. Thompson, Iota. For Chaplain, Rev. Hugh Boyd, Kappa.

Respectfully submitted, R. V. O. R.

F o ster, B r o u se,

W. G. W

il s o n ,

Committee.

The President-elect was then escorted to the chair by Brother Barclay.

Brother R. W. Smith, on taking the chair, favored the Con­ vention with a short, but very appropriate address.

On motion, Brothers Wilson of Epsilon Epsilon, Foster of Mu, and Brouse of Alpha Alumni were appointed a Committee on the Order of Business.

While the Committee was engaged in preparing its report, the report of the Presiding Chapter was read by Brother Young of Alpha Alpha— the Presiding Chapter not being represented.

(See report marked Exhibit A.) On motion of Brother Will, the report was referred to a Revisory Committee of three, v iz.: Will, Barclay and Maxwell.

The Committee on the order of business then made the following report, which was adopted: We, the Committee on Order of Business, respectfully report the following: Appointment of the Committees on Chapters, Constitution, Initiatory Ceremonies and Finance.

The Report of Presiding Chapter.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

129

The Reports of the Committees on Chapters, on Constitu足 tion, Initiatory Ceremonies and Finance.

R. V. F o s t e r , O . R. B r o u s e , W . G. W i l s o n , Committee.

Brothers Terrell, Short and Delano were appointed the Committee on Chapters. Brothers Shaw, Brouse and Hill (of Tau) were appointed a Committee on the Constitution. Brothers Lovett, Smith, Wilson and Lozier (Indiana Asbury) were appointed a Committee on Initiatory Ceremonies. Brothers Maxwell, Foster and Thompson, were appointed a Committee on Finance.

On motion, Brothers E. B. Fullerton, G. B. Wright, W. H. Scott, T. C. Thurman and Isaac Crook were appointed a com足 mittee to make arrangements for our customary banquet, and also for the delivery of the annual Oration and Poem.

The Revisory Committee then made the following report, which was received and adopted: We, the Revisory Committee, would report the following points worthy of consideration by the Convention: (1) Establishment of chapters at the Universities of Ken足 tucky, Georgia, Mississippi, and Michigan, at Beloit College, and the Northwestern University; (2) publication of the Cata足 logue; (3) the late Beta Chapter; (4) the Song Book; (5) Honorary Membership; (6) the system of naming chapters, Active and Alumni.

Respectfully submitted, H e n r y C. W * l l , S hepa rd B arclay, A l l is o n M a x w e l l ,

Committee.

Brother G. B. Wright* was then introduced to the Convention and delivered a short but pointed address, alluding in a very interesting manner to the early days of the order when he was an active member. * Until his death in 1903 he used to recite his reminiscences at all the Beta gatherings within easy reach of his home at Columbus, O.

130

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

Iota Chapter then made its report on the state of affairs at Lexington, K y., which was referred to the Committee on Chap­ ters.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock P. M. Evening Session.

The President called the Convention to order, and after roll call, Brother H. C. Will, Chairman of the Committee on Creden­ tials, reported the following additional delegates: C. F. Hormel, of Gamma Gamma (Wittenberg) and W. T. Haines, of Tau (Wabash). The latter, being without credentials, was, on motion, admitted to a seat on the floor.

The Committee on Constitution being called on for their report, Brother T. W. Shaw, chairman of the Committee, read the original constitution and the proposed changes which were then taken up seriatim. After a lengthy discussion, the whole report was laid on the table till the next morning.

Brother E. H. Terrell, Chairman of the Committee on Chap­ ters, presented his report, which was adopted. (The report will be found annexed, marked “ Exhibit B .” ) Brother J. H. Lozier then presented resolutions in regard to colleges prohibiting Greek letter societies, which were adopted.

(The resolution will be found annexed, marked “ Exhibit C ") and consent was given by the Convention to make said resolu­ tions public.

On motion, the convention adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock A. M. Morning Session, July 8, 1869.

The Convention was called to order by the President, and after devotional exercises, the minutes of the previous session were read, corrected and approved.

On motion, the chair appointed Brother Shepard Barclay Sergeant-at-Arms.

Brother Will, Chairman of the Committee on Credentials, reported the presence of Brother Hermes Cronkleton of Theta Chapter (Ohio Wesleyan), and on motion he was admitted to a seat in the Convention, as delegate of that Chapter.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

131

The report of the Committee on Constitution was then taken from the table, and finally disposed of.

On motion, the Committee on Constitution was instructed to see that each chapter is provided with a copy of the Consti­ tution as corrected by this Convention.

The Committee on Initiatory Ceremonies was called on for its report, but not being prepared, said report was made the special order of business for three o’clock P. M. Brother Maxwell, Chairman of Committee on Finance, offered the report of said Committee, which was adopted. (The report will be found annexed, marked “ Exhibit D .” ) Brother Foster, on behalf of Mu Chapter, then offered a scheme for the issuing of a monthly Fraternity magazine. The general plan proposed was read by Brother Foster, and on motion of Brother Delano, the whole matter was referred to a committee of three. The chair appointed Brothers Delano, Foster and Lo­ zier as such committee.

Brother Brouse then offered the following resolution: Resolved, That we hear with unfeigned delight of the pros­ perity of our Southern Chapters, which suffered so seriously by the late war. That it has long been a cherished project of our Order to place our Southern Chapters in a healthy condition before the public, where, we judge from the past, they will do honor to our glorious order. That we hereby extend our heart­ iest sympathies to the noble Greeks who are manfully battling to reinstate our Southern Chapters against so great odds and so many discouragements.

O . R. B r o u s e , J. M. T h o m p s o n .

The resolutions were adopted.

Brother Will stated to the Convention that during the past year Gamma Gamma Chapter mourned the loss by death of one of her members, Brother C. A. Collier; and on motion a committee of three was appointed to draft suitable resolutions.

Brothers Will, Hormel and Barclay were appointed such com­ mittee.

Brother Short made a motion to the effect that the Frater­ nity publish a Catalogue during the present year. An amend­

132

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

ment was offered by Brother Lozier to the effect that the Com­ mittee on the Constitution be instructed to insert as an article in the Constitution that the Fraternity will hold Quinquennial Conventions, the first to be held 1870, the next in 1875, and so on, and that immediately after said Convention the Fraternity shall publish a catalogue. After some discussion, Brother Brouse moved that the whole subject be laid on the table, and the vote being a “ tie vote,” the President decided in favor of the affirma­ tive.

The report of Delta Chapter on the subject of the song book was called for by the President, and Brother Terrell reported that as the songs had not all been sent to them, it was impracti­ cable to publish a book. Brother Terrell made a motion to the effect that one man from each of three neighboring chapters be appointed as a committee for the publication of said book. An amendment was offered to the effect that the committee be chosen from Delta, Pi and Tau Chapters. The motion as amended prevailed, and Brothers L. N. Pattison of Delta, C. H. Little of Tau, and C. W. Henderson of Pi were appointed, and on motion, Brother Maxwell was added to the Committee.

Brother Lozier moved a reconsideration of the resolutions offered by him relative to Colleges that opposed Greek letter societies. The motion prevailed, and the resolutions, after much discussion, were adopted in their original form.

On motion, a committee of three was appointed to furnish a copy of these resolutions to each of the Annual Conventions of the other Fraternities. The chair appointed Barclay of Omicron, Lozier of Delta, and Davis of Omicron.

Brother Brouse reported from the Committee on Constitu­ tion, in favor of changing the words “ Sinking Fund” (Art. 8th) to read “ Reserve Fund,” and on motion the change was ordered.

Brother Fullerton, Chairman of Committee on the Arrange­ ments, made the following report, which was accepted: Mr. President and Gentlemen: Your Committee of Arrange­ ments beg leave to report that they have ordered and sent out between four and five hundred invitations to the Literary Exer­ cises in the Senate Chamber, at the following cost: Printing, $6.00; Envelopes, $2.50; Distribution, $5.00.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

133

The members last night reported in favor of a banquet, but owing to the unexpected absence of the other members of the Committee, the undersigned has been unable, from lack of time, to make the necessary arrangements.

Respectfully etc., E. B. F u l l e r t o n , Chairman.

Brother Lozier made a motion that a committee of three be appointed, of which Brother Fullerton shall be chairman, to make preparations for a Beta Supper, the expense of which shall not exceed one dollar per member. The motion prevailed, and the chair appointed Brothers Fullerton, Wilson and Maxwell.

Brother Delano, chairman of the Committee on Magazine, made the following report: Your Committee appointed to consider the propriety of publishing a Fraternity Monthly Magazine, would report as follows: That the project of said publication be for the present deferred, and held subject to the consideration of some subse­ quent meeting of the Fraternity in Convention, when by the reestablishment of numerous chapters in the South, and new chapters in other parts of the country, the triumph of so large an enterprise may be the better secured.

Respectfully, etc., H. A. D e l a n o , J. H. L o z i e r , R. V. F o s t e r , Committee.

On motion resolutions of condolence on the death of Brother C. A. Collier were adopted, and a copy bearing the signatures of the officers of the convention and the members of the com­ mittee, was ordered to be forwarded to the family of the deceased brother.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to meet at 1.30 P. M. Afternoon Session.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment and was called to order by the President.

The report of the Committee on Initiatory Ceremony was then heard.

134

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

(Before any action was taken on this report Brother Charles J. Seaman was received as delegate from Eta Eta Chapter in place of Brother Delano, who was called away.)

The ceremony as reported by the Committee was on motion adopted as the proper mode of initiation to be observed by all the chapters.

The Committee on constitution reported another article to the constitution, making the Convention every fifth year, begin­ ning with 1870, a quinquennial, which was on motion adopted.

Alpha chapter, as a committee on a Grand Seal for the Fra­ ternity, made its report, and on motion the design presented by said Chapter was adopted. (Report will be found annexed, marked “ Exhibit E .” ) On motion, it was resolved that the next Convention should be held in Chicago, 111., on the first Wednesday of July, 1870.

(July 6th.)

The Revisory Committee reported the system of naming alumni chapters recommended by the late presiding chapter, which was adopted.

The recommendation relating to changing the names of some of the college chapters was referred to the next presiding chapter.

Brother Brouse presented the following resolutions relative to the action of the late Beta Chapter.

Resolved, That we learn with great satisfaction of the fidel­ ity of many of the members of Beta Chapter, while the most of the active members basely betrayed their trust and violated most wantonly their solemn vows. That while we condemn the meanness of the betrayer, we sympathize with and glory in those who remained true to the order and themselves, and cordially invite them to co-operate with our several chapters in furthering the immortal principles of the order.

O . R. B r o u s e , T. W. S h a w .

The resolutions were on motion adopted, and the presiding chapter instructed to forward copies to loyal members of that chapter.

On motion, Omicron Chapter at the University of Virginia

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

135

was declared presiding chapter of the fraternity for the ensuing year.

Brother Fullerton made a verbal report in regard to the arrangements for the evening, which report was adopted.

The following resolution of thanks was presented by Brother Lozier: Resolved, That the thanks of this Convention are hereby gratefully tendered to Captain J. H. Groves, the superintendent of the capitol buildings, and his assistants, for kindly permitting us to occupy the Supreme Court Rooms and Senate Chamber gratis, during the session of this Convention.

J o h n H o g a r th L o z ie r , O.

R.

B ro u se.

The resolution was adopted, and the secretary instructed to furnish Captain Groves with a copy.

On motion, thirty dollars was appropriated from the “ reserve fund� for the publication of fifty copies of the minutes of this Convention.

On motion, the work of publication was given to Alpha Alpha chapter, and instructions given to send such copies of the minutes to the presiding chapter as soon as published.

After singing a song, the Convention adjourned to meet at 7.30 P. M., in order to hear the annual oration by Dr. E. B. Stevens, and the poem by Brother J. H. Lozier.

Evening Session, Senate Chamber, July 8, 1869.

Pursuant to adjournment, the Convention met in the Senate Chamber to hear the annual address, delivered by Edward B. Stevens, M .D., of Cincinnati (Alpha Chapter) and the poem

by Rev. John Hogarth Lozier, A.M ., of Indianapolis (Delta Chapter). A very select audience of about three hundred ladies and gentlemen were assembled to listen to the address and poem.

After singing several songs, the Convention adjourned to the Banquet Hall.

Banquet Hall, 10 P. M., July 8, 1869.

Convention was called to order by the President. On motion of Brother Terrell, it was

136

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

Resolved, That the excellent oration and poem, delivered in the Senate Chamber, be published in pamphlet form.

On motion, a committee of three was appointed to wait upon Brother Stevens and Lozier in order to procure their manu­ scripts. The chair appointed Brothers Brouse, Foster and Maxwell.

A motion prevailed to the effect that Alpha Chapter be appointed a committee to prepare a catalogue of the fraternity, for publication by the Convention of 1870.

Unanimous thanks were tendered to Brothers Stevens and Lozier, for their able and elegant addresses.

Unanimous thanks were tendered to Brother Fullerton for the great aid he had rendered the Convention, and his arduous work in preparing for its comforts.

Unanimous thanks were also tendered to the President and officers of the Convention, and after singing some glorious songs, the Convention adjourned to meet at Chicago, 111., July 6, 1870.

R

Attest:

H arry

B.

Y

oung,

obert

Secretary.

W.

S m it h ,

President.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

137

E X H IB IT A R E PO R T OF X I, K N O X COLLEGE, PR E SID IN G C H A PT E R To the delegates of the fraternity, in Convention assembled, Greeting: Your presiding chapter for the year has the honor to submit to you the following report: As to the general condition of the fraternity, we are glad to report very favorably. The correspondence has, for the most part, been carried on with commendable zeal, while the spirit and energy manifested in some chapters has been very gratifying.

We have every reason to believe, that now, as formerly, our order stands first in our colleges, and that her members are men of high moral and intellectual worth. No other class than this should be allowed to bear the standard of our noble order; and by thus preserving ourselves intact, we can gain a reputation which no society can raise by all the grand display and pomp imaginable.

Let Greeks speak for themselves, let their actions and entire lives be such as shall bring honor upon the fraternity, and then nothing else will be needed.

During the past year propositions have been made and carried for the establishment of chapters at the following places, viz: Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, V a .; Denison Uni­ versity, Granville, Ohio; University of Kentucky, Lexington, K y .; Washington University, St. Louis, Mo.; University of Chicago, Chicago, 111., and for an alumni chapter at Chicago, 111.

Chapters at Denison University, Virginia M ilitary Institute, Washington University, and Chicago, 111., have been established, and respectively named Eta Eta, Theta Theta, Iota Iota, and Alpha Alumni.

The college chapters are as prosperous as could be desired, and the alumni chapter at Chicago is working hard for the estab­ lishment of a chapter at Chicago University. When the propo­ sition was made for the latter place, there were already three

138

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

societies at the university, and since then a fourth has been organ­ ized, but such is the character of its members that our own welfare will not be hindered in the least. A student had been pledged and was working hard to establish the chapter; but he has left the institution, and consequently our progress has been retarded.

But the Chicago brothers will by no means give it up, and start­ ing with but a few men, they confidently promise a chapter which shall do honor to the fraternity.

In reference to the University of Kentucky, Iota will present a report. This is a fine institution, and J. K. Patterson and W. G. Strange, of Omicron, are professors there, but there are laws pro­ hibiting secret societies, £nd hence it will be difficult if not impossible to locate a chapter there.

There was for some time a great deal said in our Correspon­ dence in reference to the University of Georgia, Athens, Ga., but no proposition being regularly made, the question was not placed before the chapters. This is one of the most influential colleges in the South, and if it were not for the opposition with which we would there meet, we would heartily recommend it to the notice of the fraternity.

The University of Mississippi is also a flourishing institution, and since a southern chapter will preside next year, we earnestly recommend that full information in reference to it be obtained.

None of the defunct southern chapters have been reorganized during this year. Centre College, in which Epsilon was situated, is hardly such an institution, being yet small and not having regained its lost strength, as would merit the reorganization of our old chapters.

As to the University of North Carolina, we at present have no information. The catalogue of 1866 and 1867 showed an attendance of over one hundred in the college, but since then the exercises have been suspended. They were, however, to be reopened last fall. We would especially recommend this institu­ tion to the notice of the next presiding chapter.

The location of Upsilon (formerly at the University of South Carolina), is unknown to us, and we know nothing of the circumstances of the college.

Zeta chapter has informed us that two of her members are going to Davidson College, N. C., after Commencement, and if

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

139

the college is deemed worthy, they will endeavor to reorganize Phi chapter.

Psi chapter, at Bethany College, West Virginia, should by all means be reorganized. We are informed that the college is doing well, and unless there are too many societies there, we see no reason why we should not have a flourishing chapter.

There are a great many first class colleges in Virginia, and under the leadership of Omicron we shall expect to see great things accomplished next year. It should be our special aim to plant chapters in all the southern colleges of importance, since the South is a most promising field, and one to which we have the fullest right of access.

The East will not always lay claim to the most thorough scholarship and the most flourishing institutions, but already the tide of learning is turning westward; while before the late war, colleges such as the University of Virginia and North Carolina were fully the rivals of Harvard and Yale, Ann Arbor now draws students almost from under the walls of Yale itself, and before long Greencastle and Iowa C ity will be as widely known as seats of learning and true culture as any one of the cities of New Eng­ land.

We think that every measure possible should be used to plant a chapter at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Just before our Lambda chapter became defunct, the Greeks took the highest ranks in the institution and notwithstanding the immense outside influence of eastern societies against them, they held their own, and had they possessed the requisite courage and resolution, Lambda chapter might now outrank all the eastern societies which boast so much of their prestige and renown.

But she basely betrayed us, and we have reason to believe that many have heartily regretted it. Our principles do not underlie the foundations of many other societies, and dreaming of another society which had the same foundation as that of our order and with a grander superstructure, they soon realized that it was different entirely. With our reputation as the only western society of much importance, added to the prevailing jealousies at Ann Arbor of eastern institutions, we think a first class chapter might be organized. About the only practicable and sure way of accomplishing this end, we think, is the following: Let every

140

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

western chapter, if possible, and surely those in Indiana and Ohio, send a brother there next year, and let them organize a chapter. It will pay any one to spend a year at Ann Arbor, the place being one of superior advantages, and at the same time a chapter of our order will be planted there. We would advise your honorable body to take definite action upon the matter.

When our chapter at the Chicago University is established, we shall hope to see a chapter at Beloit organized, and also one at the Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., a young college, but magnificently endowed with a large and learned faculty and numerous students. Almost a proposition for the latter place has reached us, but it is too late for the action of the fraternity this year.

During the past year a circumstance has happened which was slightly anticipated, and yet which we could hardly believe would come to pass. We refer to the action of the late Beta chapter at Western Reserve College. It is hardly regretted; and yet their previous members were such as have done honor to the fraternity. If they had degenerated so low as to betray their trust (having joined the Delta Kappa Epsilon), we heartily rejoice that they are out of our circle. Their action was as treacherous and unmanly as could be conceived of, and their refusing to give even the names of those who had joined or who had sanctioned their proceedings, was mean and contemptible.

Had we pursued a wise course, probably as soon as their procedure was heard of, we would have addressed communications to all their alumni. But we did not do this, and consequently only a few have been heard from. However, letters have at last been sent to all, and we hope to ascertain all that is in our power.

Those from whom we have heard, numbering some of the oldest alumni as well as the youngest, strongly discountenance it.

In the publication of catalogues we would recommend that the names of all those who are not known to have played the traitor remain, and the others be stricken out. As soon as their treachery was heard of, a resolution was passed expelling the chapter from the fraternity (i.e., the active members), and soon after the votes of a majority of the chapters were received, and an announcement of their expulsion was published in the Chicago Journal.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

141

In the early part of the present year a proposition arose to change the place of convention from Springfield, Ohio, to Colum­ bus, Ohio. This proposition was placed before the several chapters, and received a majority vote. There was some oppo­ sition in favor of Chicago, and that place would have been pre­ ferred by us, had not the other place been proposed first. A t some future time we shall hope to have it held at Chicago.

Propositions were submitted by the presiding chapter for publishing a new catalogue during this year, and for bringing the constitutions of the several chapters to the Convention, in order that they might be revised and made to harmonize. These have been carried affirmatively.

When Beta Chapter became defunct, and consequently the responsibility of preparing a fraternity song book rested on no individual chapter, we commissioned Delta chapter to carry on the work, and the appointment seemed to meet the hearty approval of the different chapters.

The custom of electing honorary members (if there is such a custom prevalent among any chapters) is in our opinion a very bad one, and we would like to see an article in the constitution, or a law, prohibiting such action. If any person is qualified to be a Greek, one of his qualifications is capability and willingness to stand a thorough initiatory course, and we judge no man to be fitted for such a position who is not perfectly willing to stand such a test.

We would also advise your honorable body to take some steps toward a change in the system of lettering chapters. Alumni chapters cannot be expected to have the same energy, and to maintain a correspondence equal with college chapters, and we could not expect to impose upon them the duties of a presiding chapter; so that it seems to us very proper that their letters should be given them separate from those of the college chapters.

(For example, Alpha Alumni, Beta Alumni, etc.) Two alumni chapters now have their names in the same order with the college chapters, and from Upsilon to Omega the letters are designated to chapters which are defunct; so that it might seem advisable to begin with Upsilon and designate five of our latest chapters by the remaining letters of the single alphabet. These, namely, Upsilon, Phi, Chi, Psi, Omega, were small chapters, and it would

142

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

make no great difference to designate live, active chapters with their letters. While, on the other hand, our catalogue would pre­ sent a compact appearance which it now greatly lacks. The remaining defunct chapters, Beta, Epsilon, Eta, Lambda, and Sigma, were large, and their appearance would not be bad, while we hope at the same time some of them may be reorganized.

In closing our report we cannot but glance over this year’s history of our noble order and see what rapid progress has been made in everything which relates to its interest. New chapters have sprung up. The principles of our order, health giving and life preserving, have been disseminated wider and wider through the land. The college chapters seem to exist with new life and energy. Our alumni are going forth to battle with life to the honor and glory of the fraternity, and we cannot but thank a kind Providence for his goodness in the past and humbly supplicate for further mercies in the future.

M ay our order long live to enjoy an uninterrupted pros­ perity. M ay her blessed influence extend wider and wider through our land. M ay she rear a structure in the heart of every one of her devoted followers which shall contain in one 'harmonious whole every principle of right and duty, every pure and noble sentiment toward God and man.

A. J.

V an W agn er,

L u k e P a lm e r , J r .,

W. M.

President.

Recorder X i Chapter.

S a l t e r an d N

elso n

A yres,

Corresponding Secretaries.

We have lately ascertained that Lambda Lambda chapter has been organized at the Chicago University. Only two mem­ bers have as yet been initiated, but a fine chapter is promised.

According to the instructions of the last Convention, Beta Beta prepared fifty copies of the minutes of the same, costing th irty dollars. Twenty-eight dollars of this has been collected from the chapters; the remaining two dollars is uncollected.

A. J. Luke

V an W agn er,

P a lm e r , J r .,

President.

Recorder X i Chapter.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

E X H IB IT “ B ” R E PO R T OF TH E C O M M IT T E E ON C H A PTER S Your Committee on Chapters would report as follows: Alpha, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, reports very favor­ ably, having six live Greeks ready for active work next year.

Alpha’s numbers may appear small, but her motto is “ quality before quantity.”

Gamma, Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, Pennsylvania, is still in a languishing state, owing to the resolu­ tion of the faculty and trustees prohibiting secret societies. If Gamma mu!st die, however, she will die gloriously. She still has five good members.

Delta, Indiana Asbury University, has had eighteen noble Greeks to meet around the sacred altar during the past year.

She never was in a better condition. Six of her men were leading spirits in rival fraternities, but were taken “ ou t” and “ in ” by Delta.

Zeta, Hampden-Sidney College, Virginia, is in a very pros­ perous condition, having a first-class set of men who have taken an unusual number of college honors during the year past.

Theta, Ohio Wesleyan University, with her eighteen noble fellows, is doing a noble work for the order. M ay her career of usefulness long continue.

Iota, Hanover College, Indiana, has had during the year past eight good live Greeks. She has heartily recovered from her late sickness and can now eat the “ dorg” with any of her broth­ ers.

Kappa, Ohio University, has nine as loyal devourers of “ dorg” as we can boast of. The Greeks here have flourished nobly through the year, and are purely indoctrinated with the principles of the fraternity.

Mu, Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tenn., reports pros­ perity. Has eight zealous Greeks to represent our principles at Cumberland University; but has to lament the death of a dear and worthy brother, W. O. Campbell.

Xi, Knox College, Galesburg, 111., is in a first-rate condition.

She deserves and has the thanks of the fraternity for the able

144

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

manner in which she has acted as presiding chapter during the year past.

Omicron, University of Virginia, has twelve members, firstclass men, doing a constant and thorough work. Has taken nine academic and literary honors, which must add still more to the glory of a beloved fraternity.

Pi, Indiana University, has twelve members, of whom we m ay well be proud. The prospects for the future are very bright, and the chapter is bound to succeed against all barbarian ele­ ments.

Rho has six stout Greeks who honor the fraternity at Wash­ ington College, Lexington, Va. Tau, Wabash College, Indiana, has nine splendid Greeks, worthy and efficient workers in the cause.

Alpha Alpha, Monmouth College, 111., reports nine members, standing among the first in the college, with good prospects for the ensuing year.

Beta Beta, Iowa State University, stands high, and is con­ stantly adding new honors to the fraternity.

Gamma Gamma, Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, is :in a flourishing condition, having thirteen members of the first .order.

Delta Delta, Westminster College, Fulton, Mo., has eight enthusiastic members, who maintain with honor the high stand­ ing of the fraternity. Prospects are fine.

Epsilon Epsilon, Iowa Wesleyan University, reports thirteen Greeks. Young in the order, but correspondingly earnest in working for the good and advancement of our noble order.

Eta Eta, Granville, Ohio, is composed of eleven men who represent the most moral and intellectual material in Denison University. Success for them is certain.

Iota Iota, Washington University, St. Louis, Mo. (We must congratulate the fraternity on the establishment of this splendid chapter.) Organized less than a year ago, it now assem­ bles around the altar seven as true hearts as ever beat in a Greek’s breast. We predict a prosperous career.

Theta Theta, Virginia Military Institute, lately established, is in a very fine condition. Has ten noble cadets enrolled under its banner.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

145

Alpha Alumni, Chicago, 111. We are pleased to notice the organization of this grand old Alumni chapter, with a membership of about twenty-five of the most prominent citizens of Chicago, and a good prospect for an increase to forty. The great interest they shall manifest in the progress of the fraternity is highly commendable.

Lambda Lambda, Chicago University, is still under the bush, but will be out in a short time with a fine set of men.

The Committee are of the opinion that the fraternity should be more careful in the selection and establishment of chapters, and would recommend the new plan for voting on chapters pro­ posed by the Committee on Constitution. We also hope that a chapter may be established, if it can be established well, in every well-reputed university and college in the land, and that our order may be extended into every state in the union.

Respectfully submitted, E. H . T e r r e l l , H e n r y A. D e l a n o , J o h n W. S h o r t .

Committee.

E X H IB IT “ C " Resolutions, presented by Brother J. H. Lozier, in regard to colleges prohibiting the establishment of secret societies.

Whereas, It has come to the knowledge of this Convention that the authorities of one or more of our colleges have taken action prohibiting the existence of secret social and literary societies in their institutions, and Whereas, It is our firm conviction, based upon extended observation and experience, that such societies, when properly conducted, have the effect to develop the mental energies of their members in manner and extent not practicable in the public societies usually found in colleges, therefore, Resolved, That all presiding chapters be hereby instructed to prepare and preserve a list of names and localities of such universities and colleges as exclude secret social and literary societies, and that the fraternity at large be requested to use their influence to prevent the attendance of students upon such insti­ tutions; and, provided that this action shall not be construed to affect any denominational institution opposed to secret societies

146

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

in general, from conscientious scruples; nor to affect any institu­ tion that may expel a secret society for immorality or insubordi­ nation, after due trial.

Resolved, That we respectfully refer the foregoing to other secret social and literary societies, and invite their concurrent action.

J o h n H o g a r t h L o z ie r .

E X H IB IT “ D ” R E P O R T OF TH E C O M M IT T E E ON FIN A N CE Your Committee on Finance beg leave to make the following report: As there is continually needed a fund for defraying the ex­ penses of Convention, and for the payment of any other expenses of a general nature by the fraternity, as ordered by the Conven­ tion; therefore, we would recommend the rigid enforcement by the Convention of the amendment to the constitution in regard to the financial scheme adopted by the last Convention. (See Exhibit A, Art. X III, Sec. 2 of minutes of said Convention.)

We would also recommend that the Convention instruct the presiding chapter to place at interest whatever amount of money they may have on hand after defraying the necessary expenses of the Convention. As the result of the scheme adopted by the Convention of 1868, we have the following report: A lpha....................sen ds... $12 Beta B eta...........................

Gamma............................................Gamma Gamma.will send $12 D elta.................... will send 20 Delta D elta.........sends. . . 10 M u ........................sen ds...

15 Epsilon Epsilon.. sends.. . 18 X i......................................... ............Eta E ta ...............................

Omicron............... will send 24 Theta T heta......................

P i .......................... sends. . .

24 Iota Iota.............................

R h o ...................................... ........... Alpha A lu m n i.. .sends. .. 28 T a u ....................... sen ds...

18 Lambda Lambda sends.. .

4 Alpha Alpha.......................

All of which is respectfully submitted, A

l l is o n

J. M . T

R. V.

M

axw ell,

h om pson ,

F o ster.

Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

147

E X H IB IT “ E ” R E P O R T OF ALPH A C H A P T E R C O M M IT T E E ON G R A N D SEAL The committee appointed to present designs for a Grand Seal for the fraternity, to be used in official documents, respect­ fully submit the following design: Argent; in sinister chief, a book or, bearing crossed swords and key, proper; a bend cotised, azure, bearing three mullets, or, and in dexter base, a wreath surrounding clasped hands, sup­ porting a heart inflamed, all proper.

E.

S. S c o t t ,

J ohn W . S h ort, J ohn P h il R W

I. N.

oger

C o v in g t o n , M

W

il l ia m

oore,

il l ia m s ,

S. K

ennedy.

Members of Alpha Chapter.

In the fall of 1868, the chapter at Western Reserve deserted the frater­ nity and made an application for a charter to Delta Kappa Epsilon, which was granted, and the chapter was instituted in December, 1868. The men who thus left the fraternity were: Elwood Williams ’69; William H. War­ ner, James D. Williamson ’70; George G. Baker, Charles R. Baldwin, Morti­ mer H. Dodge, J. R. Kennan, Everton J. Latimer, Edward D. Vance, Clifton B. Beach and Francis A. Hanford ’71; and Thomas F. Gaylord, Thaddeus A. Hoyt and William E. Sherwood ’72. Membership in D. K. E. was offered also to the following alumni of .the chapter, namely, George H. Ford ’62; Cortland L. Kennan’67; Clifton G. Marshall’67; Philo A. O tis ’68; William H. Upson ’42; Samuel A. Wildman’70; Henry M. Wright ’64; Ebenezer Bushnell’46; Thomas Doggett ’48 ; Henry L. Hitchcock (honorary Yale ’32); Henry V. Hitchcock ’55; George W. Knapp ’61; John Pierce ’50; Henry H. Rice '67; and Philo A. Wilbor ’66; and in the D. K. E. catalogue of 1910 there are given dates of initiation into Delta Kappa Epsilon of most of these men at different dates, some as late as 1876. The chapter refused to state which of its alumni had joined in this movement, and for a number of years the alumni of the chapter were quite generally shunned by Betas, but when the Western Reserve chapter was re-established in 1882 an effort was made to find out who had really left the fraternity, and membership in D. K. E. was repudiated

by Clinton G. Marshall '67, Frank L. Baldwin ’67, Cortland L. Kennan ’67, Henry H. Rice ’67, Philo A. Wilbor ’66, John Pierce ’50, George W. Knapp 61, George H. Ford ’62, and Thomas Doggett ’48.

Ebenezer Bushnell ’46, stated that he desired to remain in Beta Theta Pi, but that he had promised a near relative to continue in D. K. E. provided

148

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1869

such relative reformed some personal bad habits, and he was consequently expelled from Beta Theta Pi at his own request.

No further attempt has ever been made to seduce a chapter of Beta Theta Pi from its allegiance, and the .chapters at Williams, Brown, Michigan and Western Reserve, where such attempts were successful as has been recited, have been re-established and are in good condition and a credit to the fra­ ternity. These desertions all occurred when the affairs of the fraternity were at a low ebb, and no doubt the men concerned thought they were im­ proving their condition and prospects by doing as they did. Desertions of this kind have happily become rare in late years, although desertions have occurred from Phi Gamma Delta to Zeta Psi at Williams, from Phi Kappa Psi to Psi Upsilon at Cornell, from Phi Kappa Psi to Psi Upsilon at Wiscon­ sin, from Phi Delta Theta to Delta Kappa Epsilon at the University of Min­ nesota, from Delta Tau Delta to Theta Delta Chi at Wabash, from Phi Gamma Delta to Delta Kappa Epsilon at Stanford, from Chi Phi to Kappa Alpha at Hobart, and from Sigma Nu to Chi Psi at Chicago. Possibly there have been other instances also. Beta Theta Pi has been frequently solicited to grant charters to treacherous chapters of other fraternities, but has always consistently refused. Of course it is a great temptation to a fraternity to issue a charter to a strong experienced chapter, and one which is well estab­ lished in the college where it is located, and such temptation appears to have been too great to have been resisted by the fraternities concerned in the above instances.

It should be noted that Lambda Lambda was the name assigned to the chapter established at Chicago University. When this chapter was actually established it was called at first Zeta Zeta and afterwards Alpha Zeta. There was a lot of confusion about the chapter names just about this time— the name Zeta Zeta had been given to the alumni chapter at Nashville, and when it was determined to name the alumni chapters on a different system from the active chapters, and the name was given up, it was assigned to the chap­ ter at Chicago. This institution was not the present University of Chicago, but was a college under the auspices of the Baptist Church. The present University of Chicago is an entirely different institution with a different charter, a different endowment and under different auspices.

The frater­ nities, however, which had established chapters at the old University of Chicago have generally considered their chapters at the new university as continuations of their former organizations.

This was the first convention at which a committee on finance made a report. When we note the extremely small amounts of money that were paid in for the expenses of the fraternity, we are incited to wonder how the fraternity ever existed at all.

5tlinutes of tl)£ (Tonvention of 1 8 7 0 M IN U TES OF TH E CO N V EN TIO N OF 1870 PR O CEED IN G S OF TH E N ATIO N A L C O N V E N T IO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI SO C IE T Y FOR T H E Y E A R 1870 Tremont House, Chicago, 111., August 31, 1870.

A t 10^2 o’clock A. M. the Convention assembled. Gen. R. W. Smith, President of Alpha Alumni Chapter, called the convention to order and made a welcome speech on behalf of his chapter.

On motion, Col. Jas. B. Black, Alumnus of Delta Chapter, was called to the chair pro tem.

Brother O. R. Brouse, of Alpha Alumni, was appointed secretary pro tem.

On motion, a committee on Credentials was appointed: Craft of Delta, Henderson of Pi, Castle of Xi. On motion, a committee on Permanent Organization was appointed: Henderson of Zeta Zeta,* Gordon of Alpha Alpha, Hormel of Gamma Gamma.

On motion, a Committee on Order of Business was appointed: Hormel of Gamma Gamma, Benton of Alpha Alumni, Warren, alumnus of Omicron.

The Committee on Credentials was charged with the secrecy of the sessions of the convention.

On motion, the chairman was instructed to require each speaker, on rising, to announce his name and chapter.

On motion, a committee was appointed to see to the publi­ cation of such matter relative to the Convention as they should deem fit. Henderson of Zeta Zeta, Brouse of Alpha Alumni.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to 1 o’clock P. M. 1 o’clock P. M. The Committee on Permanent Organization submitted the following report: We, the Committee on Permanent Organization, beg leave to report as the officers of this convention: For President, Col. Jas. B. Black, of Indianapolis, Ind., Delta. Vice-President, J. W. Blackmore, of Gallatin, Tenn., * Chicago University.

149

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Mu. Secretary, W. M. Salter, of Burlington, Iowa, Xi. Assistant-Secretary, E. H. Terrell, of Richmond, Ind., Delta. Chap­ lain, Rev. J. W. Larimore, of Chicago, 111., Alpha Alumni.

Respectfully, C. R. Henderson G. I. Gordon Committee F. C. Hormel / The report was adopted.

The Committee on Credentials reported accredited delegates from fourteen chapters, and thirty-six visitors. (Vide complete list of delegates and visitors, Exhibit H.) The Committee on Order of Business submitted the fol­ lowing report: Your Committee on Order of Business have the honor to report the following: 1.

2.

3.

Appointment of Committee on Constitution.

Appointment of Committee on Chapters.

Appointment of Committee of Conference with Alpha Alumni, on Arrangements and Entertainments.

4. Appointment of Committee on Finance.

5. Report from Presiding Chapter.

6. Report from Committee on Chapters.

7. Report from Committee on Finance.

8. Report from Committee on Constitution.

9. Report from Committee on Initiatory Ceremonies.

10. Transaction of General Business.

Respectfully submitted. \ Frank C. Hormel W. M. Benton \Committee Harry C. Warren The report was accepted.

On motion, a Committee on Constitution was appointed: Trousdale, Mu; Benton, Alpha Alumni; Warren, of Omicron.

On motion, a Committee on Chapters was appointed: Craig of Beta Beta; Hormel of Gamma Gamma, Stillson of Iota.

On motion, a Committee of Conference with Alpha Alumni, on Arrangements and Entertainments was appointed: Johnson, -of Delta; Meiers, of Pi; Corley, of Epsilon Epsilon.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

151

On motion, a committee on Finance was appointed: Castle, of X i; Weller, of Zeta Zeta; Smith of Iota.

On motion, a committee of Conference, as to Finance, with Alpha Alumni was appointed. Meiers of Pi, Johnson of Delta, Blackmore of Mu. The report of Omicron, presiding chapter for the previous year was read, and referred to a committee for special considera­ tion: Williams, of Alpha; Buchtel, of Delta; Thornton, of Iota.

Two members of the Committee on Credentials were in­ structed to proceed around the room and ascertain whether all in the room were members in good standing or not. There was difficulty only in the cases of two persons— *Showalter of Kappa, and Seaman of Eta Eta— who, having gone to Eastern Colleges, joined eastern societies; but on account of their undoubted loyalty to Beta Theta Pi, expressed under all circumstances, they were admitted to the full privileges of the convention.

On motion, a pass word— Alpha Alumni— to be used by those entering the room, was adopted.

On motion, the following resolution was adopted: RESOLVED, that the Committee on Chapters be instructed to ascertain the following statistics and report the same, viz: Number in each chapter during last college year.

Prospects of each chapter.

Any new places for the establishment of chapters.

As to Santa Clara proposition.

As to the Louisville proposition.

As to the reorganization of Southern chapters.

As to the right of one chapter to control in the election of members by another chapter.

And any other matters concerning the relations of the chapters.

On motion, a Committee was appointed to examine our relations with other societies: Terrell of Delta, Hormel of Gamma Gamma, Warren of Omicron, Brouse of Alpha Alumni, Seaman of Eta Eta. On motion, a committee was appointed to see about the propriety of an excursion on Lake Michigan. Maj. R. E. Smith, of Delta, Brouse and Clark of Alpha Alumni. * Showalter had joined Alpha Delta Phi at Yale and Seaman at Brown.

152

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

On motion, a committee was appointed to draft resolutions on deaths that have taken place in the order during the year: Meiers of Pi, Blackmore of Mu, Johnson of Delta.

On motion, the following resolutions were adopted.

RESO LVED , that the Committee on Constitution be instructed to see if all the chapters have correct copies of the Constitution, and if there be any exception to this state of affairs, that they recommend the best way to secure that end.

The convention ajourned.

Ten o’clock A. M., Sept. 1, 1870.

The Convention was called to order by President Black.

The Committee on Excursion reported favorably to the same, and was instructed to procure, for this afternoon, the boat Sarah Van Epps.

The Committee on Credentials reported two new delegates and nine visitors. (Vide Exhibit H.) On motion, a committee of three, consisting of Messrs.

Oviatt, Brouse, and Hamilton, was instructed to invite the orator and poet of last evening to furnish copies of their produc­ tions for publication, the proceedings of the Convention in the matter to be published therewith.

The Committee on Excursion was instructed not to procure the boat if it should be rainy at the appointed time.

Brothers Lockwood, of Iota Iota, and Williams, of Alpha, were received as delegates, in the absence of the regularly appointed delegates for those chapters.

The Committee on Finance reported. (Vide Exhibit D).

The report, amended by omitting Alpha Alumni from any assess­ ment for the yearly tax, was accepted, and the committee was continued.

The Committee appointed to examine the report of the presiding chapter reported. (Vide Exhibit B.) The report was received.

Brother Irvin, of Theta, was received as delegate from said chapter, in the absence of the regularly appointed delegate.

Brother David H. Moore, of Kappa, was received as delegate from said chapter.

The Committee on Constitution reported. The report was

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

153

accepted, read section by section, and finally adopted as seen in Exhibit E. The Committee, with the addition of Brother E. B. Chandler, was continued to the next Convention.

The Committee on Foreign Relations reported. (Vide Exhibit G.) On motion, by Brother Lozier, it was RESOLVED, That the report of the Committee on Foreign Relations be adopted, and that the committee be continued, with instructions to consider any proposition or propositions that have been or may be made looking to such an alliance with an eastern society as may prove to be mutually advantageous; and that any measure they may suggest shall be submitted to each of the chapters for approval, but the final consummation of the alliance shall be left to the next National Convention.

The Committee on Catalogue of Alpha Chapter reported readiness to furnish sheets of the same for publication. The report was received and referred to a revisory committee: E. M. McDonald, of Pi; Williams, of Alpha; Brouse, of Alpha Alumni.

The Committee on Chapters reported. The report was received. (Vide Exhibit C.) The Committee on Obituaries reported. The report was received. (Vide Exhibit F.) On motion of Brother R. W. Smith, of Alpha Alumni, the following resolutions were adopted: RESOLVED, That we tender to Brother Daniel W. Voorhees our earnest thanks for his very able, eloquent, and highly literary oration, delivered before the fraternity, at Crosby’s Music Hall, on last evening.

RESOLVED, That the Chairman of this Convention prepare and furnish to Brother Voorhees an official copy of the foregoing resolution.

The Revisory Committee on Catalogue submitted the following report: Your committee appointed to examine the catalogue as prepared by Alpha chapter report that we find the compilation

by Alpha chapter quite complete as far as we have been able to examine it; and we recommend that it be referred to Alpha

154

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Alumni chapter, for publication immediately upon the adjourn­ ment of the Convention.

E. M. M R

oger

cD onald,

W

il l ia m s ,

O. R . B r o u se ,

Committee.

The report was accepted.

On motion, the following resolution was adopted: Whereas, Our Brother, Roger Williams, of Alpha chapter, has, during the past year, almost alone and unaided, prepared a most perfect and complete compilation of the names of the mem­ bers of our fraternity for publication in catalogue form, therefore be it R ESO LVED , That the thanks of the fraternity in Convention assembled are hereby tendered Brother Williams, for the satis­ factory manner in which he and the members of Alpha chapter have discharged their arduous duties.

The presiding chapter for the ensuing year was instructed to send each chapter a copy of the ritual adopted at the last Conven­ tion.

Eta E ta chapter was instructed to prepare a song book.

On motion, the following resolution was laid on the table: RESO LVED , That there shall be elected annually by the Con­ vention a permanent Treasurer, who shall keep all the moneys of the fraternity, paying out the same only upon order of the Convention by its president and secretary, or upon the authen­ ticated order of the presiding chapter. That such Treasurer shall be required to give a bond in the sum of $1,000 for the proper performance of his duties, such bond to be accepted by Alpha Alumni chapter, and render an accurate statement of moneys received and paid out. That the Committee on Constitution be instructed to report an amendment to the Constitution, carrying out this resolution.

On motion, the convention adjourned, to meet at eight this vening in the ladies’ parlor.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

155

Dining Room, Tremont House.

The members of the Convention assembled in the ladies’parlor at 8 o’clock, and proceeded thence to the dining room, to partake of the bounteous repast furnished by our Brothers of Alpha Alumni. After doing this quite heartily, President Black called General R. W. Smith to the chair, when appropriate toasts and stirring responses became the order of the evening.

On motion of Brother Terrell, Alpha Alumni received the hearty thanks of this Convention for the elegant entertainment furnished by that Chapter this evening.

Mr. Drake, the proprietor of the Tremont House, was unani­ mously thanked for the many kindnesses shown the Convention during its stay in the House.

On motion of Brother Craft, the heartfelt thanks of the fraternity were presented to Brother D. H. Moore, for his beau­ tiful poem read before the Convention last evening.

The exercises were interspersed with fine music, and the banquet closed by singing “ In Beta Theta Pi, M y Boys,” etc., to the tune of “ Auld Lang Syne,” with the appropriate cere­ monies. n}/2 P. M., Sept. 1, 1870.

The Convention was called to order by President Black. A share of the “ dog” food to be eaten in spiritual consecration to “ Wooglin,” was given the delegates of each chapter for safe keeping for his chapter. The Convention adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow morning. g}/2 A. M., Sept. 2, 1870.

The Convention was called to order by Brother R. W. Smith.

The Committee on Finance made an additional report. The report was accepted. (Vide report complete, Exhibit D.) On motion, the name of the Chicago University chapter was changed from Lambda Lambda to Zeta Zeta, and the name of the Alumni chapter at Nashville, Tenn., was changed to Beta Alumni.

The Conference Committee on Finance reported as follows: The Conference Committee, after having conferred with Alpha Alumni chapter, report the Convention indebted to the resident

156

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Greeks $100. Therefore your committee recommend that $100 be paid over immediately.

R. W . M e i e r s , W . H. J o h n s o n , J. W . B l a c k m o r e ,

Committee.

The report was accepted.

One hundred dollars was ordered to be given to Brother Hamilton of Alpha Alumni.

The resolution for a permanent treasurer was taken from the table, and action thereon was postponed indefinitely.

Indianapolis, Ind., was chosen as the place for holding the next annual Convention, and the last Wednesday in August was selected as the time.

Power was given Brother W. R. Frame of Alpha Alpha, now of Princeton, N. J., to reorganize Theta Prime, under the super­ vision of the Presiding Chapter.

On motion, the list of chapters was read over, and, for the purpose of facilitating correspondence, the name of a brother who would be at his college during the coming year was given by each chapter.

The unanimous thanks of the Convention were given to President James B. Black for the tact, promptness, and dignified courtesy which he displayed during the sessions of the Conven­ tion. Thanks were also given to the secretary and his assistant. “ Commodore” Smith, of Indianapolis, was heartily thanked for his efforts in giving us so pleasant a boat ride.

The publishing of the minutes of the Convention was given to the presiding chapter for the ensuing year.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to meet next year at Indianapolis, Ind. Jam es B. B la c k ,

of Delta Chapter, President.

W

il l ia m

M . Salter ,

of X i Chapter, Secretary.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

157

E X H IB IT “ A ” R E PO R T OF OM ICRON, PR E SID IN G C H A PTE R , FOR TH E Y E A R 1869-70 To the Honorable Delegates of the Fraternity in Conven­ tion Assembled: Your presiding chapter for the past year begs leave to submit to you the following report: In considering the various subjects of importance connected with the fraternity, the first that demands our attention is the general condition of our order. This, judging from the corres­ pondence, is very satisfactory. All the chapters lately heard from give universal testimony to an increased zeal for, and stronger attachment to, the interests which most deeply concern us.

Though we are at present favored with smooth seas and prospering gales, yet we must not conclude that our whole course during the past year has been without trials and difficulties. In one or two instances, dangers of an alarming character retarded our headway; but we are happy to state that the clouds which lowered in certain localities have been dispersed, and the sun of prosperity once more shines forth, brightening and enlivening with its beams the united parts of the great whole of our noble fraternity.

Your attention is next called to the several colleges which were deemed by the Convention of last year especially deserving of notice.

In reference to the University of Kentucky, we learned in the early part of the past year that the laws prohibiting secret societies were still in force at that institution, and, consequently thought best not to attempt to establish a chapter until more favorable reports should give some hopes of success. We trust that further information will be obtained on this subject.

The University of Georgia, Athens, Ga., has been under consideration, but from the personal observation of one of the

158

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

members of Omicron, we have concluded the opposition of rival fraternities to be so great as to preclude all hopes of getting the men we wish. Although we earnestly desire to see the standard of our order advancing, it is only on the condition that those who support and defend it shall be worthy to rank with the highest in the land; and the firm foothold, as well as large mem­ bership, already gained by rival orders, at the place above men­ tioned, have so influenced us that we think it best to defer the consideration of this matter indefinitely. The above are the sole reasons for our arriving at this conclusion.

Concerning the University of Mississippi, we can learn abso­ lutely nothing; hence we have deemed it best to take no action whatever in the matter.

Centre College, where Epsilon was located, is still of too little importance to deserve the notice of the fraternity.

The University of North Carolina is in no condition to be worthy the notice of our order. From all we can learn, its sta­ tus is truly deplorable; and unless more favorable reports reach us, it will not be worth while to bestow any attention upon this institution.

Upsilon chapter was located, we understand, at the Univer­ sity of South Carolina, Columbia, S. C. Owing, however, to political difficulties, the college exercises are now suspended, and until these are resumed and the university approximates some­ what to the ante bellum prosperity, it is hardly worth while to take into consideration the re-establishment of this chapter.

In reference to Bethany College, we have been unable to learn anything whatsoever.

In regard to the establishment of a chapter at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, we can only say that the information received during the past year has not been sufficiently explicit to warrant our making the proposition to the fraternity. We earnestly hope, however, that those chapters who are near the scene of action will take the matter in hand and give full reports next year.

Mention was also made, at the Convention of last year, of the Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., and we hope some pains will be taken to learn its status thoroughly. During the past year, we have heard several particulars concerning this

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

159

institution from X i chapter, to whom, by the way, we must return our most cordial thanks for the admirable manner in which their correspondence with us has been kept up; but the information was too meagre in its character to warrant our bring­ ing the matter into general notice.

We understood from letters from Zeta, just before the close of the past session, that Phi chapter, at Davidson College, N. C., was to be reorganized in a few days. Since then, however, we have heard nothing about the matter, and are therefore unable to state whether or not the reorganization was effected.

In this connection, we must congratulate the fraternity on the re-establishment upon a firm foundation of Gamma chapter, which was reported at the last Convention to be in a languishing state. Judging from letters received, this chapter now is in a very flourishing condition, and during the next year we hope continued prosperity will smile upon the laudable efforts of those who have labored so faithfully in behalf of the principles of our order.

The matter in reference to changing the names of certain of the college chapters was left to the presiding chapter for the present year, by the Honorable Convention of 1868-9. After due deliberation upon the question, we have come to the conclusion that this matter is one of so much importance that decisive action upon it would better be left to your Honorable Body. We heartily endorse the suggestion of X i presiding chapter, excepting, how­ ever, the name of Phi chapter. For the reorganization of this chapter there is now some hope; and, in case of success, we think it would be preferable for the chapter in question to retain its former title. We leave this matter, however, to the discretion of the Convention.

During the past year, propositions have been submitted for the establishment of college chapters at the following places, v iz : University of the Pacific, Santa Clara, Cal., and Simpson Cen­ tenary College, Indianola, Iowa; and for an alumni chapter at Louisville, K y. The first of these propositions was carried, and will again be referred to. The second proposition was lost, the requisite three-fourths vote not having been obtained. The third, that for an alumni chapter at Louisville, K y., failed by two votes only of being carried this year. We attribute this result, mainly,

160

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

to a badly regulated system of correspondence. This matter will also be again alluded to.

Reference has been made about the University of the Pacific, Santa Clara, Cal. It is here proper to state explicitly the facts concerning this institution. Early in the past session, a propo­ sition was made to establish a chapter of our order at this uni­ versity. From the information then obtained, the project was considered a worthy one, and consequently about the middle of the collegiate year the requisite three-fourths vote was obtained in favor of the proposition. Owing to the great difficulty in find­ ing out the person to whom the charter could be sent, and the danger of forwarding such a document upon a mere supposition, the constitution was withheld till some time early in May. A t that time, just as positive information reached us concerning the address of the brother authorized to establish the chapter, we received a letter from Alpha, stating that the reports, upon the authority of which the proposition had been carried, had been discovered to be much exaggerated in favor of the college, and that upon further inquiry, a state of affairs totally different from that at first reported had been found to exist at the Santa Clara institution.

On the authority of this information, Alpha not only recon­ sidered her vote and changed it from affirmative to negative, but also requested us, if the constitution had not yet been forwarded, to delay the same, at Alpha’s special request, until the matter could again be brought before the fraternity. The question here presented to us was puzzling in the extreme; being no less than whether, under the present constitution, the presiding chapter had the right to delay forwarding a charter to a chapter which had been already established by a three-fourths vote. After deliberating upon the matter, we came to the conclusion that it was better for us to transcend our authority, even at the risk of censure, than to allow the fraternity to suffer by the establish­ ment of a chapter unworthy our Order. Consequently, we withheld the constitution, at the same time reconsidering our vote on the question, and changing it to the negative. No sooner had we done this than we received letters, both from Iota and X i in reference to the same matter. Iota also reconsidered her vote, and X i cast hers in the negative. Thus confirmed, as it were, in

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

161

our decision, we no longer felt any uneasiness in regard to the judgment of the fraternity in general concerning our action.

True, we, in a measure, transcended our authority— that is to say, there is in the constitution no mention made of a case similar to the one in question, by the legislation in regard to which we could be guided in the present instance— but then, taking all things into view, we thought we would consult the best interests of the fraternity by the course we pursued, and feeling ourselves influenced by the best of motives, did not hesitate to abide by the decision of Your Honorable Body in reference to the right or propriety of the step taken.

Concerning the college chapters, the news from all quarters heard from is favorable in the extreme. All seem to be thoroughly alive to the importance of early and vigorous action in behalf of our cause next year; and though many ranks have been deci­ mated by the loss of those who have gone forth from college walls to begin in earnest the battle of life, yet those who remain evince a highly commendable zeal in their determination to fill the places of those who have left us with brethren worthy to bear the title of “ Greeks.”

In this connection, we must refer to our alumni chapter at Chicago. It is said that comparisons are odious, but we are sure all will join unanimously in returning thanks and praises to Alpha Alumni for the warm interest and generous zeal manifested in our cause. We feel that we would be doing great injustice were we to neglect this opportunity of publicly expressing the obliga­ tion under which the fraternity rests to the members of this chapter, and we congratulate the members of the Convention that it has fallen to their lot to partake of such hospitality as will be dispensed by “ the resident Greeks of Chicago.”

In this report, we beg leave to make mention of the present system of correspondence. We are obliged to confess that during the past year, the correspondence has not been carried on in an altogether satisfactory manner; and in making this statement we do not except ourselves from the number of delinquents, but own, with regret, that we, too, are to blame. As we ourselves come in for a share of censure, we feel at perfect liberty to make a plain statement of the facts.

No one can appreciate the want of a good system of corre­

162

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

spondence so well as the presiding chapter, wherever it may be.

In making out the yearly report, many difficulties necessarily present themselves, since the best information by letter is gener­ ally insufficient. How much more formidable do these difficulties become increased by infrequent correspondence and meagre information! To instance the case in question, we will state that from one of our chapters we received but one letter during the past year, and this was written some time during the winter; while from several others we heard but at rare intervals. Your honorable body can readily conceive how almost impossible it is, under these circumstances, to make out a report in any way satisfactory, either to the Convention which receives it, or the presiding chapter which prepares it.

To cite another instance, just before the end of the past year, about the middle of May, we received letters from Louis­ ville, K y., in regard to establishing an alumni chapter at that place. Several of the alumni of Rho and Omicron were among the body applying for a charter. As soon as we received the letters, we wrote immediately to all the chapters, requesting answers as soon as possible, so that we might establish the chapter before the end of the session, which was close at hand. To these letters many chapters responded at once, but there were five chapters from whom we heard nothing whatever. Even with this deduction, there would have been a three-fourths vote on the question, had all the responses been in the affirmative, since there are about twenty-three chapters all told. Two of the chapters, however, were very undecided, and preferred not voting until something further was heard about the matter; consequently, there were about sixteen affirmative votes. Thus was lost the opportunity of establishing, this year, a fine alumni chapter, simply for the want of two votes. Not that we were certain the votes of the five silent chapters would have been in the affirmative, but we had good reason for thinking, from the enthusiastic “ ayes” which greeted us generally, as soon as the question was proposed, that the other chapters would have also agreed to the proposition.

This example is cited merely by way of illustrating the necessity for a better system of correspondence. As we said before, we, ourselves, come in for a share of blame, in the matter

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

163

of writing promptly; and this subject is brought before the Con­ vention, not for the purpose of reflecting upon individual chap­ ters, but in order to remedy a fault so apt to prove of serious consequence.

In view of the present difficulties, we would urge, most earnestly, that since the matter of correspondence is treated of in the constitution, Art. IV, Sec. 1, the provisions of this article, heretofore neglected, be hereafter rigidly enforced, and, in addi­ tion, we would suggest that each chapter be required to corre­ spond with the presiding chapter at least once in every month during the collegiate year. This plan, we know, will entail a good deal of labor on the corresponding secretaries of the pre­ siding chapter, but the correspondence can be apportioned among the several members of said chapter, and by this means the burden considerably lightened.

Whatever decision may be arrived at by the Convention in regard to this matter, we sincerely hope some steps may be taken to remind the various chapters of their duty in this particular, in order to avoid further embarrassments.

We understand from Alpha that the new catalogue has pro­ gressed as favorably as possible, and will be in readiness at the annual Convention. The members of Alpha deserve the thanks of the fraternity for their efforts in discharging this laborious duty.

In regard to the song book, we have been unable to learn anything, but suppose this is owing to the great difficulty of its preparation, and the hesitation of making mention of it before its completion.

Having thus touched as briefly and rapidly as possible the matters of interest which demanded our attention, we must draw to a close. Though our progress during the past year has not been marked by an increased number of chapters, we have to congratulate the fraternity on the stronger feeling of friendship and intimacy which has arisen between those organizations of our order already in existence. Though no new fortresses unfurl our banner, old territory has been reclaimed, our lines of attack have been reformed, and our troops, strengthened and invigorated by repose and discipline, are eager for the fray and confident of victory.

The chapters in general seem to have had new life instilled

164

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

into them, while in individual instances the enthusiasm in our cause has increased to a marked degree. The results of these improvements, though not now visible, will become apparent during the next year, when we hope to claim supremacy over the fields as yet unconquered.

Let us, then, gird ourselves for the coming struggle, and trusting to a merciful guidance and protection in the future, as in the past, resolve to win countless victories for the glory and honor of our noble and beloved fraternity.

E. D.

W ashbu rn ,

President.

(Seal) Recorder Omicron Chapter.

K i n s o l v i n g , Corresponding Secretary.

W . B . C h is h o lm ,

G.

H.

Owing to the absence of the grand seal, we have been obliged to verify this document with the seal of the chapter.

E. D. W . B . C h is h o lm ,

W ashburn ,

President.

Recorder Omicron Chapter.

E X H IB IT “ B ”

Your committee to whom was submitted for examination the report of the presiding chapter beg leave to submit the following: After a patient reading and careful examination of the paper referred to us, we find that the report contains information which belongs to the Committee on Chapters, to whom we have sub­ mitted the report of the presiding chapter.

We also find one clause which concerns the Committee on Constitution, to whom we have communicated the intelligence which concerns them.

In our opinion, there is nothing further to which it is neces­ sary to call your attention.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

H e n r y A. B u c h t e l , R

oger

W il l ia m s ,

H. C. T

h ornton,

Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

E X H IB IT

“C ”

Your Committee on Chapters makes the following report: Alpha, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, is in fine condition, with good prospects. She enters the coming session with two Greeks.

Gamma, Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, Pa., reports prospects fair. Five zealous Greeks are working to keep the fire burning upon the altar of Beta Theta Pi. Delta, Indiana Asbury University, Greencastle, Ind., reports seventeen live men who monopolize the college honors. Her number next term will be eleven.

Zeta, Hampden-Sidney College, Va., lost five men at their last commencement, leaving them five men for the coming year, strong and hopeful.

Theta, Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, num­ bered sixteen last year; she will renew operations, decreased by seven. They report affairs as most prosperous with them.

Iota, Hanover College, Ind., holds her own standard of prosperity amid the strife with three other contending fraternities; number at present, ten; starting next year with nine. She has determined to test the virtue of a thorough correspondence with all the chapters.

Kappa, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, reports ten working Greeks. Their annual literary exercises are one of the principal features of commencement.

Mu, Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tenn., had five enthusiastic brothers gathered around the altar during last session. The spirit of the chapter is all that could be desired.

Four resident alumni Greeks give constantly their aid, counsel and encouragement.

Xi, Knox College, Galesburg, 111., reports ten members hold­ ing the first positions in college. She enters the coming year with fine prospects and six members.

Omicron, University of Virginia, Va., has ten members. She has the thanks of the fraternity for the able manner in which she discharged the duties of presiding chapter during the past year.

Pi, Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind., numbers twelve live Greeks, having ten ready for active service next year.

166

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Rho, Washington College, Lexington, Va., is reported as being very prosperous, an honor to the institution and to the fraternity.

Tau, Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., was never in a more flourishing condition. There were ten active members during the last year, and the coming year opens with an equal number.

Alpha Alpha, Monmouth College, Monmouth, 111., has, dur­ ing the past year, dispelled clouds that were gathering; and now her sky is clear and bright. The chapter consists of eight mem­ bers, none of whom, we hope, will by their acts dim the stars or disgrace the name.

Beta Beta, Iowa State University, Iowa City, Iowa, reports the interests of Beta Theta Pi as most prosperous with her. She numbered last year sixteen choice men; six graduated, but old members returning give her fourteen for the coming year.

Gamma Gamma, Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, is in a very prosperous condition, having sixteen members who have taken an unusual number of college and society honors.

The eight zealous Greeks with whom she enters the coming year want more opposition to make it lively.

Delta Delta, Westminster College, Fulton, Mo., during the past year numbered nine. Her prospects are flattering; her members are somewhat deficient in energy, however, for want of competition. The coming year will be entered with eight true Greeks.

Epsilon Epsilon, Iowa Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, is in a most prosperous condition, having six active mem­ bers and two others pledged. Wooglin still broodeth peacefully over them.

Zeta Zeta, University of Chicago, Chicago, 111., reports eight confident members. With so brilliant a record, and six earnest sons to begin the year, they must successfully contend with their formidable opponents.

E ta Eta, Granville, Ohio, has nine united Greeks. The present condition and prospects of the chapter are all that could be desired.

Theta Theta, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Va., is reported as progressing finely.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Iota Iota, Washington University, St. Louis, Mo., now assembles around the altar nine true Greeks.

Four patriotic Betas will be ready to meet the expected opposition next year.

Alpha Alumni, Chicago, 111., reports thirty members, seven­ teen of whom are regular attendants upon chapter meetings. “ The prospects are that we shall have forty-three enrolled by the close of the year. Among our number is one of the oldest members of Beta Theta Pi, being the first one initiated after the founding of the order.

Your committee would recommend the establishment of chapters as soon as practicable at the Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., and Wooster University, Wooster, Ohio; also alumni chapters at Indianapolis, Ind., and Louisville, K y. The re-establishment of Lambda, at Ann Arbor, Mich., is also urged.

We have news through Zeta that the efforts made to reor­ ganize Phi have proved futile, the existing laws of the institution being against secret societies.

Our information concerning other extinct chapters is not sufficient to warrant a report.

Respectfully submitted, W. B a y a r d C r a i g , F. C . H o r m e l , J a m e s O . S t il l s o n ,

Committee.

E X H IB IT “ D ” Your Finance Committee would report as follows: Alpha had six members; will forward amount.

Delta had seventeen members; paid $17.00 for ’69~’7o; $14.00 for ’68 -69..................................

Theta had sixteen members; will forward amount.

Zeta had nine members.

Iota had ten members; paid......................................

Kappa had ten members.

Mu paid........................................................................

Nu; no report.

X i had ten members; paid.........................................

$31.00

8.00 14.00 10.00

68

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

Omicron had ten members; paid $10.00 for ’69-70; $10.00 for ’68-’69................................................

Pi had 12 members; paid...........................................

Rho, no report.

Tau had ten members; paid......................................

Alpha Alpha had eight members; paid....................

Beta Beta had 16 members; paid.............................

Gamma Gamma had sixteen members; will forward amount.

20.00 12.00 10.00 8.00 16.00

Delta Delta had nine members; will forward amount.

12.00 3.00

Epsilon Epsilon had twelve members; paid............

Zeta Zeta had eight members; paid.........................

Eta Eta had eight members; will forward amount.

Iota Iota had nine members; paid............................

Theta Theta; no report.

7.00

$150.00 Paid Alpha Alumni.....................................................

Paid Presiding Chapter for ’70-’7 1..........................

Y et due.........................................................................

100.00 50.00 61.00

J . S. C a stle, L. S . S m i t h , O. C. W e l l e r ,

Committee.

E X H IB IT “ E ” Your Committee on Constitution would report as follows: That the following section be added to the Constitution: Art. V, Sec. 5. In addition to the corresponding secretaries as now provided for by Art. V, Sec. 1, of the Constitution, each chapter shall elect one permanent (or stated) secretary, to hold office during his continuance in college; the correspondence, however, to be carried on by the regularly elected Corresponding secretary. It is made the imperative duty of each permanent corresponding secretary, immediately upon his election, to inform

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

iby

the presiding chapter of that fact, giving his address in full, and it is further made the imperative duty of the presiding chapter to inform the other chapters of the fraternity of such election, giving the address of such permanent corresponding secretary in full; and it shall be the duty of each permanent corresponding secretary to keep constantly in his possession a list of all the other corresponding secretaries of the fraternity. Provided: that nothing herein shall be so construed as to debar permanent corresponding secretaries from accepting any other office within the gift of the chapter.

E X H IB IT “ F ” The committee appointed to draft resolutions on the death of members beg leave to submit the following.

Whereas, Death has called from the association of our brotherhood during the past year, some who were wont to meet with us on occasions like this: Therefore, we deem it a just tribute to their memories that we in convention do Resolve, That in their death our loss as an order, and as chapters, has been severe; and while their places may be filled by others equally true, yet in our memories and hearts there is a void which cannot be filled until that great reunion which we expect to hold beyond the skies.

R. W. M e i e r s , J . W. B l a c k m o r e , W. L. J o h n s t o n , Committee.

E X H IB IT “ G ” The committee on our relations with other fraternities makes the following report: We are of the opinion that all members of the Beta Theta Pi that have joined organizations of a similar character should be regarded still as Betas, so long as they pledge fidelity and fealty to the Beta Theta Pi and are willing to show such on all occasions.

There are other matters of varied importance which have been discussed by the Committee, but upon which they do not yet feel themselves qualified to report: and therefore they ask to be

170

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

continued as the Committee on Foreign Relations until the next Convention, when a full report may be made.

E d w in H . T e r r e l l , O. R . B ro u se,

C. J. S e a m a n , F. C. H o r m e l , H a r r y C. W a r r e n , Committee.

E X H IB IT “ H ” Report of Committee on Credentials.

The Committee on Credentials would respectfully submit the following report: D E LE G A TE S: Roger Williams, Alpha; Frost Craft, Delta; J. W. Rosebro, Zeta; J. N. Irvin, Theta; J. O. Stillson, Iota; H. H. Moore, Kappa; J. A. Trousdale, Mu; James W. Blackmore, Mu; J. S. Castle, X i; R. W. Meiers, Pi; L. S. Smith, Tau; George J. Gordon, Alpha Alpha; W. B. Craig, Beta Beta; F. C. Hormel, Gamma Gamma; H. S. Priest, Delta Delta; J. E. Corley, Epsilon Epsilon; O. C. Weller, Zeta Zeta*; C. J. Seaman, Eta Eta; George R. Lockwood, Iota Iota; E. B. Chandler, Alpha Alumni; D. G. Hamilton, Alpha Alumni; Harry C. Warren, Delta Alumni.

VISITO R S: Omer T. Gillett, Pi and Alpha Alumni; Wm. L. Johnston, Delta; W. C. Goodhue, X i; Sidney Thomas, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; C. R. Henderson, Lambda Lambda*; J. J. Halsey, Lambda Lambda*; T. Wiley Hill, Tau; S. L. Ward, Tau; L. M. Vance, Tau; J. C. Kauffman, Gamma Gamma; Wm. M. Salter, X i; F. F. Cooke, X i; Nelson Ayers, Xi; R. E. Smith, Delta; E. H. Terrell, Delta; 0 . R. Brouse, Delta and Alpha Alumni; A. L. Leadbeater, Delta and Alpha Alumni; James B. Black, Delta; Isaac R. Hitt, Delta; C. W. Henderson, Pi; S. T. Wilson, Gamma; Albert McCalla, Alpha Alpha and Alpha Alumni; J. W. Larrimore, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; E. M. McDonald, Pi; J. H. Dunn, Pi; G. S. Mitchell, Pi; Robert W. Smith, Iota Prime and Alpha Alumni; H. C. Thornton, Iota; E. S. Miller, Iota; Z. T. Sweeney, Delta; Frank B. McDonald, Pi; W. M. Benton, X i and Alpha Alumni; J. H. Lozier, Delta; H. A. Buchtel, * Lambda Lambda or Zeta Zeta meant the University of Chicago.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1870

171

Delta; Geo. H. Sisson, Delta and Alpha Alumni; W. R. Frame, Alpha Alpha; T. M. Baxter, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; C. D. Roys, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; Y . M. Oviatt, Beta and Alpha Alumni; J. C. Gordon, Alpha Alpha; J. B. Clayton, Kappa; D. C. Marquis, Gamma and Alpha Alumni; D. C. Stewart, Alpha Alpha; Clarke Gray, Xi; R. S. Wallace, Alpha Alpha; T. S. M c­ Clelland, Chi; C. C. Matson, Delta; W. A. Brown, Delta; W. W. Wheeler, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; Thomas C. George, Epsilon Epsilon; T. S. Bailey, Beta Beta and Alpha Alumni; George K. Clark, Alpha and Alpha Alumni; Arthur Edwards, Theta and Alpha Alumni; Willis M. Hitt, Delta and Alpha Alumni; A. D. Rich, Lambda and Alpha Alumni; J. W. Showaiter, Kappa and Alpha Alumni; John S. Tarkington, Delta.

F rost C r a ft , J . Seym our C a stle, C . W. H e n d e r s o n ,

Committee.

It must be kept in mind that the chapters with double lettered names were located as follows: Alpha Alpha, Monmouth; Beta Beta, Iowa Univer­ sity; Gamma Gamma, Wittenberg; Delta Delta, Westminster; Epsilon Epsilon, Iowa Wesleyan; Zeta Zeta, University of Chicago (also for a term called Lambda Lambda); Eta Eta, Denison; Theta Theta, Virginia Mili­ tary Institute; Iota Iota, Washington University (St. Louis).

Mtinutes of t()e Convention of 1871 Senate Chamber, State House, Indianapolis, Ind., August 30, 1871.

The Convention assembled at 11 A. M. Col. James B. Black, president of the last Convention, took the chair and intro­ duced Gen. John Coburn, who delivered the address of welcome on behalf of Gamma Alumni.

T. S. McClelland, of Alpha Alumni, was appointed secretary pro tem.

The following gentlemen were appointed a committee on permanent organization: J. M. Cropsey, Roger Williams, C. J. Seaman, C. C. Matson, and H. A. Buchtel.

Frost Craft, Frank McDonald, and S. H. Wilson were appointed a Committee on Credentials. C. W. Henderson was appointed reporter to the Convention.

A committee on order of business was appointed, as follows: J. J. Parks, J. C. Kauffman and Oliver A. Brown.

Robert M. Goodwin offered the following resolution: “ Resolved, That if the delegates from the several chapters, or their alternates, are not present, this convention may choose delegates from such chapters to act in the place of those regularly appointed, provided that they are members of the chapter from which they are appointed.” Passed.

From nine to twelve in the forenoon, and from two to five in the afternoon, were determined upon as the hours for holding the sessions. Convention adjourned to 2 P. M. 2 o’clock P. M. The Committee on Permanent Organization submitted the following report: We, the Committee on Perm anent Organization, beg leave to report as the officers of this Convention: President, Hon. i 73

174

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

Oliver P. M orton, of Alpha and Gamma Alumni; Vice-President, Thomas S. McClelland, of Chi and Alpha Alumni; Secretary, H enry A. Buchtel, of D elta; Assistant Secretary, J. W. Shackel­ ford, of Io ta Iota; for Chaplain, Rev. Oliver A. Brown, of Theta.

The report was adopted, and Committee discharged.

In the absence of the president, Senator Morton, the vicepresident, Brother McClelland, took the chair.

The Committee on Order of Business subm itted the following re p o rt: Appointm ent of Committee on Constitution.

Appointm ent of Committee on Chapters.

Appointm ent of Committee on Finance.

Report of Presiding Chapter.

R eport of Committee on Constitution.

Report of Committee on Chapters.

Report of Committee on Finance.

R eport of Committee on Publication of Catalogue.

R eport of Committee on Publication of Song Book.

Report of Committee on Foreign Relations.

The report was adopted, and committee discharged.

The Committee on Constitution was then appointed as follows: Jam es B. Black, L. G. Hay, and M. S. Coulter. The Com mittee on Chapters were: W. M. Salter, J. A. New, J. W. Shackelford. The Committee on Finance: Frost Craft, C. J. Seaman, and A. J. Michael.

The report of the presiding chapter was then read by the secretary. (Vide Exhibit A.) HI Jam es B. Black, Oliver A. Brown, and Frank McDonald were appointed a committee to examine the report of the pre­ siding chapter.

C. J. Seaman of E ta E ta reported th a t the song book would be p u t to press at the beginning of the next collegiate year.

R eport received, and committee continued.

The Committee on Conference with Gamma Alumni was appointed as follows: O. A. Brown, E. D. W. Clark, and C. W. H enderson.

A request for the adoption of certain signs of recognition w as read by Mr. Rankin of Alpha Alpha. This request was referred to the Committee on the Constitution.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

175

The Convention then adjourned to meet at 9 A. M. on Thurs­ day, the 31st.

9 o’clock A. M., August 31.

The Committee on the Publication of the Catalogue reported through Roger Williams. Report received, and committee dis­ charged. (Vide Exhibit B.) The following resolution of thanks was passed unanimously: “ Resolved, That the thanks of the fraternity are due to O. R. Brouse for the very efficient and patient manner in which he has superintended the publication of the Beta Theta Pi catalogue, and also Roger Williams for his labors in compiling said catalogue.

A motion to turn over the funds in the hands of the chairman of the Committee on Publication of the Catalogue to the Chair­ man of the Committee on the Song Book was passed.

J. C. Kauffman, J. R. Berry, and J. J. Parks were appointed a committee to ascertain the names of the permanent corres­ ponding secretaries.

Letters from Gen. Robert W. Smith, of Chicago, and J. D. S. Riggs, of Rockford, 111., referring to the re-establishment of our chapter in Beloit College were received and submitted to the Committee on Chapters.

The Committee on Foreign Relations reported as follows: Your Committee on Foreign Relations beg leave to submit the following: After a thorough investigation of the subject we have come to the conclusion that an alliance with an eastern organization at the present is both impracticable and unnecessary; and although temporarily weakened by the defection of Beta and Lambda, that we have by no means lost our hold in our own territory, the South and West; and if individual Betas and the different chapters will only keep in view Virgil’s “ Labor omnia vincit,” that our future is secure, and the Beta Theta Pi fraternity will rise to a still higher position of influence and power.

C . J . S eam an, H arry C. W a r r en ,

Committee.

176

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

On motion of Commodore Smith, the above report was adopted and the committee discharged.

Adjourned to meet at 2 P. M. 2 o’clock P. M. The committee appointed to examine the report of the pre­ siding chapter reported (Vide Exhibit C), and the committee was discharged.

On motion, the report of the presiding chapter, read at the second session, was adopted.

The Committee on Constitution reported (Vide Exhibit D), and was discharged.

The following resolution of thanks to the orator and poet was then passed: RESOLVED, That the able and eloquent address, and the sparkling and spicy poem, pronounced before the National Convention by Rev. H. R. Naylor, A. M., of New Albany, and Prof. E. E. Edwards, A. M., of St. Louis, respectively, are worthy the distinguished gentlemen to whom we are indebted for them, and also of the fraternity for whom they were delivered; and that we extend to both orator and poet our most profound and cordial thanks for the distinguished part they have taken in contributing to the entertainment and happiness of this memorable occasion.

The Committee on Chapters reported (Vide Exhibit E) The report was received, and the committee discharged.

The Finance Committee reported (Vide Exhibit F). The report was received and the committee discharged.

L. G. Hay, Lee Pattison, and Lawrence Vance were ap­ pointed a Committee on Introduction to serve at the banquet to be tendered the Convention by Gamma Alumni at the Bates House.

Chaplain Lozier was appointed to lead in lifting up the Greek Paeans at the banquet.

The following report from the Committee on Printing was submitted: Your Committee on Printing would suggest that an annual sum of Forty Dollars be allowed the presiding chapter from the

THE M IN U T E S OF THE CONVEN TION OF 1871

177

sinking fund of the fraternity to be used for the printing of frater­ nity correspondence, notifications, etc.

J o h n I. C o v i n g t o n , D. G. H a m i l t o n , H arry C . W a r r e n ,

Committee.

The report was adopted and the committee discharged.

C. J. Seaman, J. W. Shackelford, D. G. Hamilton, J. B. Black, and J. H. Lozier, were appointed a committee to report the Alliance discussion held in the afternoon of the second day, the committee to report at the next convention.

On motion, it was decided to hold the next annual national Convention at Richmond, Virginia, on the third Wednesday in August, 1872.

The Committee on Permanent Corresponding Secretaries reported (Vide Exhibit G), and was discharged.

On motion, Chaplain Lozier was selected to prepare a paper on the Wooglin legend, and its application to chapter life.

On motion, one hundred dollars was turned over to Gamma Alumni to assist in defraying the expenses of the Convention.

Convention adjourned to 9 A. M. to-morrow.

9 A. M., September 1, 1871.

Brother Frost Craft presented the report of Committee on Credentials (Vide Exhibit H). The report was received and the committee discharged.

On motion, C. J. Seaman was selected to superintend the printing of the Wooglin legend.

On motion, Gamma Alumni was chosen to superintend the publication of the minutes of the Convention.

On motion, the thanks of the fraternity were extended to Miss Katie Randolph Sheets for dedicating her “ Student’s G alop” to the Beta Theta Pi. The secretary was instructed to frame the resolution and present it.

The secretary embodied the following in a note to Miss Sheets, dated September 6th:

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

RESOLVED, That the thanks of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity be extended to Miss Katie Randolph Sheets, of Indianapolis, for the honor conferred in dedicating to our Phil-Hellenic Brother­ hood her popular and choice musical composition, “ The Student’s Galop.”

The following resolution was then passed: RESOLVED, That the thanks of this Convention be extended to Gamma Alumni chapter for the hospitable entertainment furnished the visitors and delegates.

On motion, the thanks of the Convention were extended to Brother McClelland for the able and courteous manner in which he discharged the duties of presiding officer. Thanks were also given to the secretary.

After singing the “ parting song,” the Convention adjourned to meet at Richmond, Virginia, on the third Wednesday of August, 1872.

T h o m a s S. M c C l e l l a n d , H e n r y A. B u c h t e l , of Delta, of Alpha Alumni, Secretary.

Vice-President.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

179

E X H IB IT “ A ” R E PO R T OF TH E PR E SID IN G

C H A PT E R FOR TH E

Y E A R 1870-71 To the Honorable Delegates of the Fraternity in Convention assembled, Greeting: Your presiding chapter for the past year begs leave to submit the following report: In presenting the report there are many things to be con­ sidered. However, we shall first turn our attention to that which we consider most important, the general condition of our order.

The correspondence during the past year was heavy, and generally exhibited that zeal which can only animate the hearts of true “ Greeks.” Every letter received while acting in the capacity of presiding chapter was full of encouragement. We can only conclude, under these circumstances, that the fraternity in general was in a prosperous condition. We may congratulate the order that time has only given us strength and rapidly increased our influence; that every year adds to our number many illustrious men, as well as promising students. Notwith­ standing the many opposing factions, and the seeming endeavor to destroy the honor in fraternities of merit and distinction b y' the invention and introduction of trifling fraternities, let us say nothing in opposition to such petty orders, but encourage our noble fraternity still to maintain her prominence among similar sister institutions. During the year only one chapter has seemed to doubt future prosperity, expecting its active membership to cease soon for want of desirable candidates for admission.

However, we hope to hear of the growth of that chapter, because the few members now composing it show in their correspondence the sterling Greek spirit. It is gratifying to know that the chapter has expressed the determination to keep the standing high, and die an honorable death, rather than draw out a discreditable existence. We feel that a few men with this spirit are of more

180

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

value than a large chapter with even doubtful merit in its mem­ bership.

We will next refer the convention to those colleges and uni­ versities which have been soliciting the attention of the fraternity during the past year. However, but few have received the approbation of all the chapters. There are some of our best colleges in which laws prohibiting secret orders are in force, and in others the opposition of rival fraternities would be so great that it would be very difficult to found chapters on desirable material. Therefore it has not been the ambition of the frater­ nity to establish chapters unless under the most auspicious cir­ cumstances. As our order is already large, our influence great, and our membership composed of men of the highest literary qualifications, we would consider ourselves at least sustained without establishing chapters at a risk.

We will first call the attention of the fraternity to the Uni­ versity of Georgia, Athens, Georgia. Although this institution has been under the eye of some of the chapters for quite a while, it has not as yet received the consideration of the fraternity as a whole.

On inquiry we learned that the Universities of the States of North Carolina and South Carolina were not sufficiently strong and active during the past year to deserve our attention, and unless these universities recover from their deplorable con­ dition, it is not probable that any action will be taken to establish chapters at either of these points soon.

In reference to the establishment of a chapter at Ann Arbor, Michigan, allow us to say that it has been our endeavor during the past year to obtain all the information possible concerning the institution. Such information as we have been able to obtain has not been of that character which would safely warrant a successful proposition. As there are resident “ Greeks” in the city, it is hoped that their names may be learned, and that they may be encouraged in such measures as they may deem proper to set on foot an excellent chapter of Beta Theta Pi. In regard to the Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., we submit that sufficient information has been received to recommend the immediate location of a chapter at that institu­ tion. It is hoped that the fraternity will consider a proposition to this effect at the earliest convenient period.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

181

During the year, propositions have been submitted for the location of chapters at the following places, to w it: An alumni chapter at Nashville, Tenn., an alumni chapter at Indianapolis, Ind., an alumni chapter at Louisville, K y., and chapters at Richmond College, Richmond, Va., Franklin College, Franklin, Ind., Northwestern Christian University, Indianapolis, Ind.; and Wooster University, Wooster, Ohio.

The propositions for the three above named alumni chapters were almost unanimously carried, and we are permitted to-day to congratulate the fraternity upon their organization. We al­ ready realize their influence, and we feel that their zeal and inter­ est in the cause have awakened sister chapters to increased energies, and have taught them to know that age does not impair or weaken the spirit of a “ Beta.”

The proposition to establish a chapter at Richmond College, Richmond, Va., was not wholly submitted on account of time.

We think, judging from the number of affirmative votes already cast, that the proposition will be carried, and that soon the organization of a chapter may be effected.

The Franklin proposition was lost, a sufficient number of affirmative votes not having been obtained.

The motion for a chapter at the Northwestern Christian University, Indianapolis, Indiana, was not wholly submitted on account of time and general feeling of the chapters against it.

The principal objection was that the status of the institution was not such as to merit a chapter.

In regard to the Wooster proposition we wish to state to the Convention the action of the presiding chapter. Some time early in the year a proposition was made and was being submitted to the fraternity for the location of a chapter at that institution.

But, for some reason, the proposing chapter withdrew the propo­ sition before it had been wholly submitted. In the meantime, another motion was made to the same effect, by a different chap­ ter. The presiding chapter, thinking that the first proposition had the preference, informed the second proposing chapter that such measures had been previously taken by a sister chapter and that the proposition was then under consideration. But after the withdrawal of the motion of the first proposing chapter, your presiding chapter did not think she had sufficient authority

182

the

MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

to proceed further in presenting the proposition, and took no further action in the premises.

Before the conclusion of this report, allow us to suggest that we consider a better system of correspondence than that under which we labored during the past year, as follows: That, at the opening of each college session, it be the duty of the cor­ responding secretaries of the several chapters to write at once to the presiding chapter, that not only the condition and auspices of the fraternity be known, but the names of the several corre­ sponding secretaries. While we do not altogether object to the manner in which last year’s correspondence was conducted, yet the above mentioned system cannot but be an improvement; because it will relieve to some extent the corresponding secre­ tary of the presiding chapter of unnecessary labors as well as afford means by which we may be enabled to hear from all the chapters during one college session. It is well known that there is nothing so highly appreciated by the chapters as to have a well conducted system of correspondence. In the preceding yearly report to your honorable body, the embarrassments in­ curred by the presiding chapter in consequence of a badly con­ ducted system of correspondence were discussed, and the exper­ ience of your late presiding chapter has been to a great extent similar to that of her sister Omicron. It is earnestly hoped that the several corresponding secretaries will do all in their power to regulate and make more commodious the system of correspon­ dence. And if the fault be in postmasters, who may be interested, it is earnestly requested that the letters be registered or sent by express, in order that they may be safely received.

In reference to the catalogues, permit it to be said, that although they were late in publication, and the cost seemed enormous, yet they bear evidence of careful arrangement and a neatness of typography. The thanks of the fraternity are due to the chapter which performed its duty in such a commendable manner.

The song book will soon be completed, and we have no doubt will, ere long, be ready for publication.

And now to the honorable body in Convention assembled, allow us to say that it has been our endeavor to touch upon all matters of importance that would in any way be of interest to the fraternity as a whole.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

And, in conclusion, we take great pleasure in saying th a t our progress through the past year has been marked, not only by the undying spirit manifested in our brotherhood, but th a t in our national galaxy is concentrated such stars as Alpha, Gamma, Beta, and D elta Alumni, and other chapters of great merit.

We feel to-day th a t our lines have been lengthened, th a t we are welcome to any port in which we m ay desire to cast anchor.

We have, during the past year, incurred no trouble on account of breakers, neither have we been lashed by tidal w aves; and now we feel th a t we have the strength to contend successfully against all the opposing elements th a t can array themselves against us, and we hope to be equally strong in the fu tu re; th a t should storms of misfortune howl around us, and troubles overtake us, we m ay be able to outride the threatening elements and again be able to reach the harbor w ithout the loss of a single spar, F r a n k B. M c D o n a l d , President, J. H. M c M i l l a n , Recorder of P i Chapter, J. E. S h r y e r , Corresponding Secretary.

(Seal) In the absence of the G rand Seal, we are compelled to verify this document with the seal of our chapter.

F . B. M c D o n a l d , President, J. H. M c M i l l a n , Recorder of P i Chapter.

N o t e .—The

original report of the presiding chapter was lost a t the Convention. Brother James A. New, of Pi, reproduced the report. The delay in getting out the m inutes has been occa­ sioned by the fact th a t it took some tim e to reproduce the fore­ going report.— Secretary.

E X H IB IT “ B ” In the absence of Brother O. R. Brouse, Chairm an of the Committee on Publication of Our F ratern ity Catalogue, it devolves upon me to present the following report:

184

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

Number of catalogues published..............................1,200 Amount received from the chapters....................$756.25 Expenses P r in tin g ...........................................................

$484.35

Extra binding.................................................

Steel plate.......................................................

Printing plates..............................................

Postage...........................................................

Shipping..........................................................

Brass cu t.........................................................

Copying letters..............................................

Proof reading, help, etc............................... 10.00

87.50 80.75 30.00 5.9o 6.50 6.00 1.00 $716.00

Balance on hand.....................................................

$ 44.25

R o g e r W il l i a m s , For O . R. B r o u s e , Chairman.

E X H IB IT “ C ” To the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity:.

Your committee to whom the report of the presiding chapter for 1870-71 was submitted for examination, respectfully reports that the presiding chapter, of its own motion, has so amended its report as to remove the question in reference to Wooster Uni­ versity, discussed at the reading of the report before the Conven­ tion.

As to other questions in regard to Chapters, we have referred the report to the Committee on Chapters for their consideration.

We respectfully recommend that the report be received, and that the thanks of the Convention be returned to Pi chapter for the efficient manner in which she has discharged the duties of presiding chapter during the past year.

Respectfully submitted, J am es B . B la ck , O l i v e r A. B r o w n , F r a n k B . M cD o n a ld ,

Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

E X H IB IT “ D ” To the N ational Convention of the Beta T heta Pi F raternity: Your Committee on Constitution report as follows: We recommend th a t Alpha Alpha chapter be instructed to prepare and report to the next National Convention a system of signs.

We recommend th a t Alpha chapter be instructed to submit to the next N ational Convention a design for a skeleton badge.

We recommend th a t in Section second of Article first, after the words “ except th a t the chapters out of colleges shall have no power to elect or initiate new members,” there be inserted the words, “ but an alumni chapter may, by a unanimous vote, recommend a person for membership in the nearest chapter located a t a college, and upon such recommendation such college chapter m ay elect and initiate such person as a member of such college chapter, in the manner provided elsewhere in this Consti­ tution.

Respectfully submitted, J am es B . B lack,

M. S. C o u l t e r , L. G. H a y , Committee.

E X H IB IT “ E ” To the National Convention of the B eta T heta Pi: Your Committee on Chapters subm it the following report: Alpha, a t Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, has had two mem­ bers during the past year—one Junior and one Sophomore, and will enter the coming year with one Senior, namely, Roger Wil­ liams. The chapter is in a very low condition as to numbers, b u t not as to talent. The rival societies are, in the order of their standing, Alpha D elta Phi, D elta K appa Epsilon, and Phi D elta Theta.

Delta, at Indiana Asbury University, Greencastle, Indiana, has had seventeen members during the past year. Six graduated at the last commencement, three of whom, Terrell, Smith, and

186

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

Goodwin, carried off the first three honors of the class— a class of thirty-three members. She enters the coming year with three seniors, four juniors, four sophomores, and one freshman. The rival societies are Delta Kappa Epsilon, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, and Delta Tau Delta.

Epsilon, at Centre College, Danville, K y., has had seven men during the past year— five sophomores, and two freshmen.

The rivals are Phi Delta Theta and Alpha Kappa Phi. Zeta, at Hampden-Sidney College, Va., had no delegate at the Convention. The rivals are Phi Kappa Psi and Chi Phi. Theta, at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, enters the coming year with a few enthusiastic Greeks. Secret societies are prohibited by law of the college. The rival societies have been these: Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma Chi, and Phi Delta Theta.

Iota, at Hanover College, Hanover, Ind., has had twelve members, and enters the coming year with eight, four seniors, three juniors, and one sophomore. The Literary Society presi­ dents for the past year have been Betas. These are the rivals: Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Alpha Delta Theta.

Kappa, at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, has had fourteen members during the past year, and enters the coming year with twelve. The rival societies are: Delta Tau Delta and Phi Delta Theta.

Mu, at Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tenn., had no delegate at the Convention.

Nu, at Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, Pa., enters the coming year with four members, two seniors, one junior, and one sophomore. Her strongest rival is Delta Tau Delta.

Xi, at Knox College, Galesburg, 111., enters the year with six members, three seniors, one junior and two sophomores. Phi Gamma Delta and Phi Delta Theta are her rivals.

Omicron, at the University of Virginia, Va., has had five men during the past year. She will enter the coming year with the same number. Omicron has good metal. That man Wash­ burn is pure gold. There are eight rivals. These are Chi Phi, Delta Psi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Alpha Tau Omega,

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

187

Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Gamma Delta.

Pi, at the Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind., enters the coming year with eleven members, five seniors, four juniors, one sophomore, and one freshman. The rivals are, Delta Tau Delta, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Gamma Delta.

Rho, at Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Va., has had fourteen members during the past year. These are her rivals: Alpha Gamma, Kappa Alpha, Epsilon Chi, Delta Psi, Sigma Chi, Theta Delta Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Alpha Tau Omega, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, etc. We shall expect good things from Rho as presiding chapter during the coming year.

Tau, at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., enters the coming year with nine members, four juniors, three sophomores, and two freshmen. Her rivals are: Phi Delta Theta, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Gamma Delta.

Alpha Alpha, at Monmouth College, Monmouth, 111., enters the coming year with six men, five of whom are seniors. Kappa Phi Lambda, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Kappa Psi are her rivals.

Beta Beta, at Iowa State University, Iowa City, Iowa, had no delegate at the Convention.

A private note from Brother Nipher to Brother Buchtel reports the chapter in good condition.

Phi Kappa Psi is our only rival.

Gamma Gamma, at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, enters the coming year with twelve men, six of whom are seniors.

Phi Kappa Psi is our only rival. The jolly Kauffman is yet with them.

Delta Delta, at Westminster College, Fulton, Mo., has lost but one man during the past year. That is to say, one man was graduated at the last commencement. She enters with eight men.

Epsilon Epsilon, at Iowa Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, enters the coming year with eight members. The banner is still held aloft! The riyal is the mighty Phi Delta Theta.

Zeta Zeta, at Chicago University, Chicago, 111., got a very poor start, and is not in the best possible condition. A movement is now in progress by which it may be better established. Psi Upsilon and Delta Kappa Epsilon are her rivals.

Eta Eta, at Denison University, Granville, Ohio, enters the

i88

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

coming year with seven members. Sigma Chi is the only rival.

Theta Theta, at the Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Va., sends a very neat report, through her recorder, Prof. C. D. Walker. She is in the soundest possible condition, and enters the coming year with eleven members. The fraternity is justly proud of its Virginia chapters.

Iota Iota, at Washington University, St. Louis, Mo., had six members during the past year. She enters the coming year with only three members, but these are “ Greeks in whom there is no guile.”

We recommend the establishment of chapters at the North­ western University, Evanston, 111., Richmond College, Rich­ mond, Va., and also an alumni chapter at Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Chi Prime, of Beloit College, will likely become Chi, without the prime, during the coming year.

All of which is respectfully submitted, W m . M. S a l t e r , J a m e s A. N e w , J. W . S hackelford,

Committee.

E X H IB IT “ F ” The Committee on Finance presents the following report: Balance received from presiding chapter............................. $i5-oo Received from Delta, seventeen members........................... 11.00 Received from Iota, eleven members.................................... 10.00 Received from X i ....................................... .............................

8.00 Received from Tau, nine members....................................... 10.00 9.00 Received from Alpha Alpha, nine members— ..................

Received from Gamma Gamma for 1870, $16; 1871, $ 11.. 27.00 Received from Epsilon Epsilon, eight members..................

8.00 Received from Eta Eta, eight members...............................

8.00 $106.00 Ordered to be paid to Gamma Alumni chapter to defray expenses of Convention...................................................100.00 Balance to be sent to presiding chapter...............................$ 6.00

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1871

We recommend that the presiding chapter be instructed to urge upon the different chapters greater promptness in the payment of their annual dues; also, to request those chapters which have not forwarded their dues to the Convention to send them to the presiding chapter, as it will require a full payment of dues to meet the demands that will be made upon the treasury during the ensuing year.

Respectfully submitted, F rost C r a ft ,

C. J. S e a m a n , A. J. M i t c h e l l , Committee.

E X H IB IT “ G M Your committee appointed to prepare a list of corresponding secretaries, offer the following: Alpha, Oxford, Ohio, Roger Williams; Delta, Greencastle, Ind., A. N. Grant; Epsilon, Danville, K y., Edward L.Warren; Zeta, Hampden-Sidney, Va., not known; Theta, Delaware, Ohio, W. M. Jones; Iota, Hanover, Ind., Will S. Acomb; Kappa, Athens, Ohio, C. H. Dixon; Mu, Lebanon, Tenn., A. W. Stockell; Nu, Washington, Pa., J. T. Noble; Xi, Galesburg, 111., J. J. Parks; Omicron, Charlottesville, Va., E. D. Washburn; Pi, Bloomington, Ind., G. S. Mitchell; Rho, Lexington, Va., J. P. Barclay; Tau, Crawfordsville, Ind., S. L. Ward; Alpha Alpha, Monmouth, 111., Jno. R. Berry; Beta Beta, Iowa City, Iowa, A. E. Kellogg; Gamma Gamma, Springfield, Ohio, J. Cal. Kauffman; Delta Delta, Fulton, Mo., J. E. Powell; Epsilon Epsilon, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, E. A. Robinson; Zeta Zeta, Chicago, 111., J. J. Halsey, care of D. G. Hamilton, 468 Wabash Avenue; Eta Eta, Granville, Ohio, Thomas J. Keating; Theta Theta, Lexington, Va., J. F. Ross; Iota Iota, St. Louis, Mo., D. R. Francis, care of Shyrock & Rowland; Alpha Alumni, Chicago, 111., O. R. Brouse, 400 Wabash Ave; Beta Alumni, Indianapolis, Ind., Col. James B.

190

THE M I N U T E S OF THE CONVEN TION OF 1871

Black; D elta Alumni, Louisville, Ky., Dr. F. C. Wilson; Epsilon Alumni, Cincinnati, Ohio, Jno. I. Covington.

All of which is respectfully submitted, J. C a l. K a u ffm a n , J o h n R. B e r r y , J am es J . P a r k s.

Committee.

E X H IB IT " H ” The Committee on Credentials present the following report: Delegates present: Roger Williams, Alpha; H. A. Buchtel, D elta; O. A. Brown, T heta; M. S. Coulter, Iota; A. J. Michael, K appa; J. J. Parks, X i; H arry C. Warren, Omicron; J. A. New, Pi; W. O. Roberts, Rho; L. M. Vance, Tau; J. R. Berry, Alpha Alpha; J. C. Kauffman, Gamma Gamma; J. E. Corley, Epsilon Epsilon; C. J. Seaman, E ta E ta; J. W. Shackelford, Iota Iota; T. S. McClelland, Alpha Alumni; J. B. Black, Gamma Alumni; H. S. Wilson, D elta Alumni.

The report of the “Committee on Foreign Relations,” referring to a suggested alliance with an Eastern organization, referred to a movement proposing an alliance with Zeta Psi. We have never been able to learn any of the details or who suggested it or what occurred; at any rate, it did not go very far.

MZinutes of tfye Convention, of 1872 PR O CE ED IN G S

OF

TH E

T H IR T Y -T H IR D

A N N U A L N A TIO N A L CO N V EN TIO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y E x c h a n g e H o t e l , R ic h m o n d , V a ., August 21, 1872.

The Convention was called to order at 4 P. M .; Brother Jno. I. Covington of Cincinnati in the chair. Prayer was offered

by Brother E. J. Brown, of College Hill, Ohio.

The President pro tem. appointed the following Committee on Permanent Organization: Brothers J. Ad. French, of Kappa Kappa; Walter N. John­ ston, of Rho; and Wm. H. Kent, of Tau. The Committee retired a few moments, and returning, offered the following: Your Commitee on Permanent Organization beg leave to submit the following report: For President— Prof. Wm. Allan, A. M., of Omicron.

For Vice-President— Charles J. Seaman, of E ta Eta. For Secretary— Charles D. Walker, of Theta Theta.

For Assistant Secretary— William H. Kent, of Tau. For Chaplain— Rev. Thomas L. Preston, D. D., of Zeta Alumni.

Report adopted and committee discharged.

In absence of the President, Col. Allan, the Vice-President, took the chair, with a few appropriate remarks.

Brother, W. N. Johnston offered the following resolution: Resolved, That if any of the several Chapters are not repre­ sented in this Convention by accredited delegates, the Committee on Credentials be instructed to select delegates to represent said Chapters; provided the delegates so selected shall have been members of the Chapters they represent. Passed.

Brothers Charles D. Walker of Theta Theta, Frank Mahan of Epsilon Epsilon, and James H. Anderson of Psi, were 191

192

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

appointed a Committee on Credentials, and reported. [Vide Exhibit A.] The Committee on Order of Business, composed of Brothers Walter N. Johnston of Rho, Jas. H. Anderson of Psi, and E. J. Brown of Iota, submitted the following report: I. Appointment of Committee on Constitution.

II. Appointment of Committee on Chapters.

III. Appointment of Committee on Finance.

IV. Report of Committee on Skeleton Badge.

V. Report of Committee on Signs.

VI. Report of Committee on Song-Book.

VII. Report of Presiding Chapter.

V III. Report of Committee on Constitution.

IX . Report of Committee on Chapters.

X. Report of Committee on Finance.

Report adopted and committee discharged.

The Vice-President appointed the following committees: On C o n s t i t u t i o n : Brothers Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni; Charles D. Walker, of Theta Theta; John N. Upshur, of Zeta Alumni.

On C h a p t e r s . Brothers James H. Anderson, of Psi; Wm. H. Kent, of Tau; Frank Mahan, of Epsilon Epsilon.

On F i n a n c e . Brothers Charles D. Walker, of Theta Theta; Walter N. Johnston, of Rho; Wm. A. Thom, of Zeta Alumni.

On motion, an Exchange Committee was appointed, con­ sisting of Brothers W. N. Johnston, J. Ad. French, G. S. Mitchell of Pi, Thos. Fairfax of Theta Theta.

Brother Walker was appointed Reporter to the Convention.

Convention adjourned until 9 A. M. to-morrow.

August 22nd, Morning Session.

Convention called to order by Vice-President Seaman.

On motion of Brother W. A. Thom, it was resolved to open and close sessions with singing. Meeting opened with “ Nos­ tra Insignia.”

Minutes of preceding meeting read and adopted.

The Committee on Skeleton Badge reported through Brother Jno. I. Covington. [Vide Exhibit B.] An animated and interesting discussion on the adoption of the design ensued,

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

193

participated in by Brothers 0 . R. Brouse of Alpha Alumni, Jno. I. Covington, G. S. Michell, J. A. Sanderson of Zeta, John S. Wise of Omicron, E. J. Brown of Iota, W. N. Johnston and Chas. D. Walker. On motion of Brother 0 . R. Brouse, the report was laid on the table to be taken up at next meeting.

The Committee on Signs made a verbal report through Brother G. C. Rankin of Alpha Alpha. Report received and committee discharged. Signs adopted, and delegates instructed to communicate them to their Chapters.

Brother Frank Mahan, of Epsilon Epsilon, asked to be excused from further attendance, being obliged to leave the city by business engagement. Request granted, and recess ordered to tell the Brother “ good-bye.” The “ Parting Song” was sung with a will.

The Report of the Committee on Song-Book [Vide Exhibit C] was then read by Brother Chas J. Seaman. Report received, committee discharged, and Finance Committee ordered to pay the balance due Brother Seaman.

On motion of Brother Brouse, the control of publishing and disposing of Song-Books was placed in the hands of Brother Seaman, with instructions to report to the Treasurer all moneys received.

On motion, the Secretary was instructed to frame and present a resolution expressing the sense of the Convention and Fraternity at large as to the zeal and efficiency exhibited in getting up the Song-Book. The resolution as presented was: Resolved, That the heartfelt thanks of the Fraternity be extended to Brother Charles J. Seaman, of Eta Eta, for his efficient and faithful services in getting up the B e t a T h e t a P i Song-Book, and congratulations tendered him on the taste and beauty shown in its arrangement and execution.

The Secretary read the report of the Presiding Chapter [Vide Exhibit D\, which was referred to a committee of three, Brothers O. R. Brouse, E. J. Brown, A. N. Grant, of Delta.

On motion, more time was granted the Committees on Constitution, Chapters and Finance.

On motion of Brother Covington, the President appointed Brothers Brouse and Grant additional members of the Commit­ tee on Constitution.

194

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

Brother Covington presented a petition for the re-establish­ ment of Chi at Beloit College; Brothers Brouse, Covington and Seaman, one for a new Chapter at Northwestern University, at Evanston, Illinois, and Brother Grant one for a new Chapter at the Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas. All referred to Committee on Chapters.

Brother Seaman read a letter from Brother J. Hogarth Lozier, D. D., expressing regret at being unable to attend the Convention. The Secretary read another of similar purport from Brother Richard Morgan of Mu. Brother Covington read resolutions on the deaths of Brothers Jas. Warnock of Alpha, and C. C. Gaff of Tau, and asked that they be printed in the Minutes; but on motion a committee was appointed, consisting of Brother Charles D. Walker, John I. Covington, and Jas. E. Heath, of Theta Theta, to draft suitable resolutions on all deaths in the Fraternity during the past year.

The President added Brothers J. A. Sanderson and C. J. Hall, of Delta, to the Committee on Chapters, and Brother G. S. Mitchell to the Committee on Finance.

Convention adjourned until 8:30 P. M. August 22nd, Evening Session.

Convention met pursuant to adjournment, Brother Seaman in the chair.

Session opened by singing the “ Alumni’s Return.”

Minutes of last meeting read, corrected and adopted.

The Report on Skeleton Badge, laid on table at morning session, was re-read, and a motion offered for its adoption and the discharge of the committee. A lively debate ensued on this motion between Brothers J. W. Rosebro of Zeta, Covington, Brouse, Sanderson, W. H. G. Adney of Kappa, Eugene W. Hoge of Nu, and Walker. Brother J. A. Armstrong, of Zeta, rose to a point of order as to the constitutionality of this Con­ vention adopting a skeleton badge; not decided by the President, but referred to the House for discussion, which was participated in by Brothers Armstrong, Brouse, Walker, Sanderson, Hoge, French, Seaman and Covington. Brother Rosebro offered, as an amendment to the original motion, that the report be received

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

195

and referred to the Committee on Constitution. The motion, thus amended, was adopted.

Brother Brouse read reports of Committee on Report of Presiding Chapter. [Vide Exhibit E.] All of the reports adopted except Report “ V ,” which was referred to Committee on Con­ stitution.

Convention adjourned to meet at 9 A. M. to-morrow.

August 23d, Morning Session.

Session opened by singing “ Dear Beta.” Minutes of last meeting read and adopted.

Prof. Adney, of Kappa, on behalf of his chapter, asked that L. Gerald Adney, who had been asked and had promised to join Kappa chapter, but had died before initiation, be considered a regular member of said chapter. Brother Seaman presented a similar case from Eta Eta, James L. Cox. On motion of Brother Covington, it was ordered that their names be placed on their chapter rolls, and in the catalogue of the B e t a T h e t a P i .

Brother Walker read the Report of the Committee on Finance.

[Vide Exhibit F.] It was referred to an Auditing Committee, consisting of Brothers W. C. Powell, of Theta Theta, Jas. H. Anderson, and J. C. Hall.

Brothers Brouse, Covington and Walker read reports of Committee on Constitution. [Vide Exhibit G.\ Reports 1, 2, 3 and 4, adopted after little debate. Report 5 was discussed at length by Brothers Brouse, Covington, Rankin, Sanderson, Wal­ ker, Thom and others, but was finally adopted; it being ordered that all the chapters, after Alpha Alpha, change their names in accordance with the new nomenclature. Report 6 adopted without discussion; and on motion an Executive Committee of three was appointed to get up a design for Charter, and have copies printed.

Brothers Walker, Ward and Covington, Committee. Report 7 was laid on the table until next session.

Brother Brouse nominated, in flattering terms, Brother Jno. I. Covington for Treasurer of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity for the ensuing year. On motion, Brother Covington was elected unanimously, and returned his thanks in a few words.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

Brother Anderson read Report of Committee on Chapters.

[Vide Exhibit H.] Discussion on report deferred until evening session.

On motion, Prof. Adney was appointed a Committee of One to draft a description of the services rendered by prominent Betas in having the restrictions against secret organizations in the Ohio Wesleyan University removed; said description to be preserved in the archives of the Order.

Brothers Covington and Brown stated the action of Epsilon and Iota in a recent difficulty of Epsilon, asking that the Con­ vention would act on the matter. On motion, a special committee composed of Brothers Rosebro, Brouse and Adney, was ap­ pointed to take the case in hand.

On motion, the Convention adjourned until 7130 P. M. August 23d, Evening Session.

Convention called to order at 7 ^ o’clock by the VicePresident.

Minutes of preceding meeting read, corrected and adopted.

Brother Walker read Report of Committee on Necrology.

[Vide Exhibit I.] Report adopted and committee discharged.

Report of Committee on Chapters taken up again. The recommendation for the re-establishment of Chi at Beloit Col­ lege approved, and Presiding Chapter ordered to grant charter.

The recommendation for establishing new chapters at North­ western University and Kansas University, referred to Presiding Chapter, to be submitted to the vote of the Fraternity, with favorable mention from this Convention.

Brother Hall read Report of the Auditing Committee.

[Vide Exhibit K.] Report received and committee discharged.

Brother Sanderson read a list of Corresponding Secretaries, which was ordered to be •incorporated with Report of Com­ mittee on Chapters.

Committee on Constitution reported an additional pledge.

[Vide Report V I I of Exhibit G.] Adopted, and Committee on Constitution discharged.

On motion, the sum of twelve dollars was paid to the Ex­ ecutive Committee.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

197

Tau was declared Presiding C hapter for th e ensuing year.

On motion of Brother Covington, the next Convention was ordered to be held at Louisville, K y., commencing on the 3d Wednesday in August, 1873.

The Secretary was ordered to have printed the M inutes of this Convention.

Brother G. C. Rankin offered the following: Whereas, Brother J. H. Lozier’s genius and fraternal devo­ tion have given birth to th a t suggestive and charming “ Legend of Wooglin,” which cheers the loyal Beta heart, elevates its aspir­ ations, and has so frequently contributed to the pleasure and profit of our meetings, therefore, Resolved, T h at the gratitude of this Convention be tendered him for his efficient labors in this direction, the results of which have reached th a t eminent success which has always crowned his whole-souled endeavors in the cause of our cherished Order.

Carried unanimously.

Brother Rosebro read the Report of Committee on the Epsilon difficulty. [Vide Exhibit L.\ R eport received and committee discharged.

On motion, the Treasurer was ordered to collect all dues on reserve fund ordered by Convention of 1869.

On motion, the Convention adjourned to Banquet Hall.

August 24th, 12:30 A. M.

Convention called to order by Brother Seaman.

On motion, Brothers Johnston, Covington and Rosebro were appointed a Committee to tender the thanks of the Convention to the officers of the Exchange Hotel.

Thanks were tendered the Executive Com mittee for their efficiency.

On motion, the thanks of the Convention were given to the Vice-President.

Resolutions of similar purport were passed in regard to the Secretary, and the Presiding Chapter.

On motion of Brother Brouse, the Secretary was ordered to append to the M inutes a brief description of the Banquet.

[Vide Exhibit Q.]

ig8

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

After singing the “ Parting Song,” the Convention adjourned to m eet a t Louisville.

C h a r l e s J. S e a m a n , Vice-President.

C h a r l e s D. W a l k e r , Secretary.

W m . H. K e n t , Assistant Secretary.

The legend of Wooglin was apparently recognized officially for the first time at this convention.

Attention should be called to the constitutional provision enacted at this convention for the establishment of the office of General Secretary. So far as we know, Beta Theta Pi was the first fraternity to establish such an office. It has had much to do with the advancement of the fraternity, and has been held by a number of men who have sacrificed time, effort and money in the fulfillment of its duties, and have brought the office to a high state of efficiency. The establishment of this office and of the Beta Theta Pi Maga­ zine have probably done more to advance the fraternity to a foremost posi­ tion in the fraternity world than any other administrative action of any kind.

The names of the double lettered chapters were changed in 1872, the first letter in each case being replaced by the letter “ A .” The only chapter letter about which any confusion is likely to arise is “ B B ” which was the letter of the chapter at the University of Iowa. This was changed to Alpha Beta. In 1879 when a chapter was established at the University of Missis­ sippi it was called Beta Beta.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

199

EXHIBITS E X H IB IT A. To the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials present the following Report: Delegates present: Delta, A. N. Grant of Burlington, Ind.; Zeta, J. A. Sanderson of Eutaw, Ala.; Iota, E. J. Brown of College Hill, Ohio; Kappa, Prof. W. H. G. Adney of Ohio Uni­ versity; Nu, Eugene W. Hoge of Cooper Co., Mo.; Omicron, Jno. S. Wise of Richmond, V a .; Pi, G. S. Mitchell of Martins­ ville, Ind.; Rho, W. N. Johnston of Buchanan, V a .; Tau, W. H. Kent of Williamsport, Ind.; Psi, J. H. Anderson of Richmond, V a .; Alpha Alpha, G. C. Rankin of Monmouth, Ills.; Alpha Epsilon, Frank Mahan of Muscatine, Iowa; Alpha Eta, Chas. J. Seaman of Cleveland, Ohio; Alpha Theta, Chas. D. Walker of Fairfax Co., V a .; Alpha Kappa, J. Ad. French of Richmond, V a .; Alpha Alumni, 0 . R. Brouse of Chicago, Ills.; Epsilon Alumni, Jno. I. Covington of Cincinnati, Ohio; Zeta Alumni, W. A. Thom of Richmond, Va. Visitors present:. Delta, J. C. Hall of Knightstown, Ind.; Zeta, J. W. Rosebro of Statesville, N. C .; Zeta, J. A. Armstrong of Salem, V a .; Zeta, J. R. Young of Oxford, N. C.; Alpha Theta, H. R. Fairfax of Leesburg, V a .; Alpha Kappa, J. C. Hopson of Richmond, V a .; Zeta Alumni, Dr. Jno. N. Upshur of Richmond, V a .; Zeta Alumni, W. C. Powell of Richmond, V a .; Zeta Alumni, J. E. Heath of Richmond, V a .; Zeta Alumni, Thos.

Fairfax of Richmond, V a .; Zeta Alumni, Jno. E. Taylor of Richmond, Va. Respectfully submitted, • C h a r l e s D. W a l k e r , Chairman.

F rank M ahan, J a s . H. A n d e r s o n ,

Committee.

200

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

E X H IB IT B. To the Members of the Beta Theta P i Fraternity, in Assembly at Richmond, Va., August, 1872: The Committee appointed by your body at Indianapolis, Ind., to present a design for a Skeleton Badge for the Fraternity, would respectfully submit the following design: Gold laurel wreath, in skeleton, not more than five-eighths of an inch in diameter; bearing three gold stars at left, top and right side of wreath, respectively, the stars marked with the Greek letters B e t a , T h e t a , P i , in order as above named; the w reath-band bearing the chapter letter in Greek, and the ends of w reath-band bearing the letters Alpha, Omega, Lambda, Theta (all above lettering to be in black enamel); on reverse side of w reath the name of owner; in centre of wreath a diamond with skeleton supports.

All the insignia to keep the same meanings and significations as set forth in the Constitution of the Fraternity.

M anufactured by Duhme & Co., Cincinnati, O. Price of pin, for single one, $8. Reductions will be made if adopted by the Fraternity, and larger orders given. Orders to manu­ facturers direct (or in care of Cor. Secretary of Epsilon Alumni chapter for the following year), will be prom ptly attended to, and badge mailed.

Paper and envelopes stamped with new design for sale by Beeler & Curry, stationers, Cincinnati. Messrs. B. & C. have in preparation new designs for Beta stationery work, and will allow liberal discount on large orders, as they intend making this kind of work a specialty.

E d . S. S co tt, J. W . Short,

N. M o o r e , J o h n I. C o v i n g t o n , P.

R o g e r W il l i a m s , W m . S. K e n n e d y ,

L. D. L. T o s h , Members of Alpha Chapter.

July 18, 1872, Report of Alpha chapter on design for Skeleton

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

201

Badge, approved and recommended to the Convention for adoption— E Alumni chapter.

E. B. S t e v e n s , President.

M. P. D r u r y , Recording Secretary.

J. I. C o v i n g t o n , Corresponding Secretary.

E X H IB IT C. To the National Convention of the Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on publication of Song-Book report as follows: Dr. To amount paid for printing Songs...........$256.00 3.00 “ “ “ Legend....... “ “ W ood-Cut..................

S-oo “ Postage.......................

4.80 “ “ “ Arranging Music. .. .

4.00 $272.80 Cr.

B y amount received from Chapters..........$15 2.00 “ Alum ni............. 29.30 “ Catalogue Com. 42.50 $223.80 Balance due your Committee.............................

$49. 50

Respectfully submitted, C h a s . J. S e a m a n , Chairman.

E X H IB IT D. R e p o r t o f t h e P r e s i d i n g C h a p t e r f o r t h e Y e a r 1871-2

To the Honorable Delegates of the Fraternity in Convention assem­ bled, Greeting: Your Presiding Chapter for the past year would respectfully submit the following report:

202

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

Our distance from the Fraternity centre, and consequent ignorance, made us feel doubtful in the outset as to our ability to manage the affairs and perform the duties of the Presiding Chapter; but being animated by a strong spirit of love and zeal, we determined by strenuous exertion to do our best for the advancement of the first interests of our Order.

We trust we have in some degree succeeded.

Taking up the general business of the Presiding Chapter before passing to specific acts, we would first speak as to our method of correspondence. B y an arrangement which assigned two or three chapters to each member of our own, we have been enabled to send one letter a month to each chapter. In addition to these, three printed circular letters have been issued.

Full and encouraging responses have been received from all chapters, except Zeta Zeta and Iota Iota, from whom we have heard nothing. In every case we are told that the standard is still high, as it should be; though Alpha and Mu, our noble moth­ er, and one of her worthiest daughters, report that their numbers are few. Advising them to die rather than recruit from un­ worthy material or by ignoble means, we still trust they may find those who may deserve the honor of gathering with them around the chapter altar.

In regard to the establishment of new, and re-establishment of old chapters, apart from specific propositions received from the Fraternity, we have been able to do very little. Letters have been written to Alumni of Rho, about the University of Georgia; to Alumni of Chi, about the resuscitation of Chi Prime; to Delta, about the Northwestern University, Evanston, 111.; to an Alumnus of Omicron, about Randolph Macon College, V a.; and to Brother Jno. I. Covington, about Epsilon Alumni. From the University of Georgia we received no reply, but are glad to state that one of our number goes to Georgia this year, and will take the matter in hand. We learn that there is an impediment in the way of the resuscitation of Chi, which will probably be removed before the coming session opens; so we hope to see her at her place in the ranks of the true at our next meeting.

No information could be obtained about the Northwestern University.

Randolph Macon is not yet ready for our advent; she has

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

203

several Fraternities, yet we know from the highest authority that she has not yet such men as we wish to “ wear the badge and bear the name of B e t a T h e t a P i.”

We have been perplexed a t not hearing from Epsilon Alumni; though not constitutionally chartered, yet we have heard indirectly th a t she has been organized with a large and enthusiastic membership. N ot knowing whether to acknowl­ edge her, we still deemed it best to name the Richmond chapter, Zeta Alumni, leaving it to your honorable body to decide whether the name should be retained, or whether she (the Richmond chapter) should assume the place to which she is constitution­ ally entitled.

Inquiries have been made also with regard to the resuscita­ tion of Phi Prime a t Davidson College, N. C. In the returning prosperity of the State, there are indications th a t the College will retake her former place, and th a t the reorganization of the chapter will become feasible; the Virginia chapters will keep the F raternity advised on this subject. So much for general business in which no definite result has been arrived at. Now for specific acts.

Propositions to establish chapters a t Richmond College, Richmond, Virginia; a t Wooster University, Wooster, Ohio; a t Howard College, Marion, Alabama, and an Alumni chapter at Richmond, Virginia, have been subm itted during, the year.

All have been approved by the Fraternity. The Richmond College chapter has been organized and is in splendid condition, has a large membership, and will make K appa K appa a proud name among her sisters. The Wooster University chapter has also been organized under th e title Lam bda Lam bda; her prospects are cheering; she will enter the coming session with brave heart to take her stand in the conflict. M u M u chapter, at Howard College, has just started; she will develop in the next year, and brace herself for her arduous duties as our pioneer in the far South. She has a great work before her; we prophesy her successful performance of it. We tru st the evidence of Z eta Alumni chapter’s vitality will be so strong at this Conven­ tion as to render the F raternity proud of her action in establishing it.

The influence of the Alumni chapters can be of infinite

204

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

service to the F raternity, if proper direction be given to their efforts; b u t th e disorganized condition of several of them during the past year shows conclusively th a t they must have some more definite end in view to keep them so welded together as to fulfil their purpose. Men who have entered the arena of life, absorbed in the cares of business or of family, cannot devote tim e to the social meeting which was so delightful in college days.

And yet it is essential th a t we should have these chapters, and th a t they should be carried on with enthusiasm. How is this to be brought about? Evidently by giving them a more tangible object to work for. To state w hat th a t object should be, not only transcends our present ability, b u t would be out of place in a report of this kind. We feel assured, however, th a t the Alumni chapter is a germ th a t m ay be developed into a glorious adjunct to the F raternity proper.

On th e subject of Correspondence already mentioned, we have a few more words to say. By issuing a blank report to each chapter, requesting its return as soon as filled out, we were enabled early in the session to obtain a correct list of Cor足 responding Secretaries. This, as we have before stated,m ade our correspondence more satisfactory then we judge it has been here足 tofore; and we recommend the plan for adoption. We wish specially, however, to speak of and deprecate the practice of single members being allowed to write letters and send them as coming officially from the chapters, when no one b u t the writer has seen them. We are strongly of the opinion th a t every letter of business should be read to the assembled chapter before mail足 ing, so if the writer m ay have erred in judgment, his errors may be corrected before harm is done. Our attention has been called to this by circumstances connected with the foundation of Lam bda Lam bda chapter. Rho, in her capacity of Presiding Chapter, in subm itting the proposition, gave her warm approval of it; but being afterwards led by inaccurate information to believe th a t there were reasons which would prevent her from con足 scientiously approving the plan, she, as a private chapter, simply withdrew her approval. This raised a storm of indignation among th e proposers, and several very unpleasant letters were sent us; some without reason, others caused doubtless by illadvised letters th a t went from us. If these letters had been

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

205

subm itted to the chapters before mailing, we believe the cooler judgment of several would have kept out w hat was unpleasant; and, though we were fully convinced th a t our action was legally right, we immediately adopted the plan of subm itting every letter to the chapter before mailing.

We have been greatly hampered by w ant of funds. The neglect of chapters in om itting the paym ent of yearly dues m ade us start the year with a depleted treasury. In a short tim e we were called upon to pay for the M inutes of the last Con­ vention; having no F ratern ity funds, we were unable to re­ spond, until at length, for very shame a t the imposition of a F raternity debt upon a single member, we collected th e money privately and liquidated the debt. This money, minus our share, is still due us.

Of m atters th a t have transpired independent of the agency of the Presiding Chapter, we would first m ention the re-establishment of Psi Chapter, a t Bethany College, W. Va. By th e exertions of Nu, she has resumed her position as a chapter under the m ost flourishing auspices. We congratulate the Fraternity upon the recovery of ground apparently lost to us, and hold up the example of N u for the adm iration and im ita­ tion of her sisters.

N ext we have to speak of the publication of Song-Book, and L e g e n d o f W o o g l i n . Long looked for, we are in nowise disappointed in them now th a t they are come. As our first attem p t we did not expect much, b u t are agreeably disappointed.

W e are proud of them.

Finally we would say, th a t we have attem pted in a plain unvarnished way to convey in this report an idea of the work­ ing of the F raternity under our auspices; and though we have stated difficulties w ithout reserve, yet from the intim ate knowl­ edge which our position has given us, we can assure you th a t we were never more prosperous, nor was the “ dear old m other of us a ll” ever more w orthy of our love and adm iration th an now.

W . I z a r d H e y w a r d , President Rho Chapter.

S a m u e l R . F i s h e r , Recorder.

G eorge W . Ow en s, H . St . G. T uck er, (s e

a l

)

Corresponding Secretaries.

206

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

E X H IB IT E. R e p o r t s o f C o m m it t e e o n R e p o r t o £ P r e s id in g C h a p t e r .

R eport

I.

W h e re a s, T h e la s t A n n u a l C o n v e n tio n a u th o riz e d th e e s ta b ­ l i s h m e n t o f E p s i l o n A l u m n i C h a p t e r a t C i n c i n n a t i , th e r e f o r e ,

Resolved, T h at upon the organization of the Betas there, as a chapter, they were entitled to full recognition and privi­ leges as a chapter.

Resolved, As a consequence of the last-named fact, th a t the Alumni chapter a t Richmond is properly named Z e t a A l u m n i C ha pter.

II. Whereas, M uch confusion has arisen from writing official action of chapters in social letters, therefore, Resolved, T h at the President and Recorder of each chapter shall certify all official action of their chapter to the Presi­ ding chapter, provided th a t no such certificate shall contain m atter relative to more th an one subject.

R epo rt

III. Resolved, T h at there shall be incorporated in the M inutes of each Annual Convention a complete list of Corresponding Secretaries, with their several addresses both at College and during th e vacation next following the Convention.

R epo rt

IV. Whereas, The Presiding C hapter reports a balance of money advanced by them for the publication of the M inutes of the last Convention, which balance has been found by this Com m ittee to be thirty-tw o dollars and fifty cents, after de­ ducting R ho’s dues for the last year, viz., ten dollars: there­ fore, Resolved, T h at the Committee on Finance be instructed to p ay Rho chapter thirty-tw o dollars and fifty cents.

R eport

V. We would earnestly recommend the passage of the fol­ lowing : Resolved, T h at a Treasurer be appointed, who shall keep R epo rt

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

207

accurate account of moneys received on account of the “ Re­ serve Fund,” and paid out upon the order of the Annual Con­ vention.

All the foregoing reports respectfully submitted.

O . R . B r o u s e , Chairman.

A. N. G r a n t , E. J. B r o w n , Committee.

E X H IB IT F. R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n F i n a n c e .

Your Committee on Finance present the following: Received from Delta, twenty members...........................

Received from Zeta, eleven members..............................

Received from Iota, thirteen members............................

Received from Rho, ten members....................................

Received from Omicron, five members............................

Received from P i.................................................................

Received from P si............ ...................................................

Received from Alpha Theta, thirteen members.............

Received from Alpha Alum ni............................................

Received from Epsilon Alumni.........................................

Received from Zeta Alum ni...............................................

$13.00 7.00 13.00 10.00 5 •00 10.00 5.00 18. 50 20.00 25.00 5.00 $ 1 3 1 - 5°

Paid Paid Paid Paid

to to to to

Presiding Chapter for Printing............. $28.50 Presiding Chapter for M inutes............. 32.50 C. J. Seaman for Song-Book................. 49.00 Executive Committee............................. 12.00 $122.00 $122.00

B a l a n c e p a i d T r e a s u r e r B e t a T h e t a P i .........................

$9.50

Respectfully submitted, C h a r l e s D. W a l k e r , Chairman.

W a l t e r N. J o h n s t o n , W . A. T hom ,

G. S. M

it c h e l l ,

Committee.

208

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

E X H IB IT

G.

R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n C o n s t it u t io n .

To the National Convention of the Beta Theta P i Fraternity: Your Committee on Constitution present the following reports: R epo r t I.

Resolved, That Alpha Alumni chapter be requested to compare the different copies of our Constitution, and make from them a new Constitution, embracing all the vital prin­ ciples of the present one; and also to collate and codify the laws passed from time to time by the Annual Conventions, and make complete reports and recommendations to the next Annual Convention.

R e p o r t II.

Resolved, That Sec. 4, Art. V III. of the Constitution be amended to read as follows: “ The funds thus raised shall be forwarded to the Treasurer of the Order by the different chap­ ters, before each Annual Convention; and said Treasurer shall make a full report of all his acts to the Annual Convention, which report shall be audited by a Committee of the Annual Convention.”

R e p o r t III. Resolved, That the Constitution be so amended that the Secretary of the Annual Convention shall be the executive officer and depository of the B e t a T h e t a P i F r a t e r n i t y for the succeeding year, and until his successor be appointed, and shall be called the “ G e n e r a l S e c r e t a r y .” Provided, said Secretary shall do no official acts without the approval of the Presiding. Chapter.

R e p o r t IV. Resolved, That it is the sense of this Committee that the request for the design for a skeleton badge for the Fraternity has been made in previous Conventions for the purpose of giving uniformity of design, for the use of those preferring to

I N U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

209

wear a skeleton badge; and believing that it was not the inten­ tion of the Convention recommending the submitting of the design, noi of the chapter submitting the report on the design, to haye said skeleton badge take the place of the present solid badge described in our Constitution, we decide: First, That the present badge as described in our Constitu­ tion is the only official, primary, and constitutional badge of the Fraternity.

Second, That the skeleton badge is the secondary and un­ official badge of the Fraternity.

Third, That as the unofficial badge of the Fraternity, it is unnecessary to embody the same in the Constitution, the adop­ tion of the report as submitted being a sufficient acknowledg­ ment of the approval of the design for the purposes previously named.

Fourth, That the skeleton badge reported by Alpha chapter be accepted as an unofficial badge, provided that this action shall not be considered as an alteration of our old Constitution.

R e p o r t V.

In view of the complication which will arise in naming the chapters after the alphabet be exhausted a second time, we recommend that Sec. 2, Art. II. of the Constitution be made to read thus: “ After the alphabet shall have been exhausted, the priority of chapters shall be indicated by commencing again at the beginning of the alphabet and repeating the letters, as follows: Alpha Alpha, Alpha Beta, Alpha Gamma, etc., etc.; Beta Alpha, Beta Beta, Beta Gamma, etc., etc.; Gamma Alpha, Gamma Beta, Gamma Gamma, Gamma Delta, etc., etc.

R e p o r t VI.

We recommend that the following be adopted as the lawful and only form of charter of this Fraternity: — — C h a p te r B eta T h eta P i ,

T o ------, greeting: In virtue of the power vested in us as Presiding Chapter of the B e t a T h e t a P i F r a t e r n i t y , we hereby authorize and direct you to establish a Chapter of said Fraternity a t -----

210

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

College,----- , to consist of the following charter members----- , and to be entitled----- Chapter B e t a T h e t a P i .

In token whereof we do here set our hands and seal this ----- d a y ------ , being th e ------year of the Fraternity.

President------ Chapter.

Recorder------ Chapter.

Cor. Sec. ------ Chapter.

9

General Sec. Beta Theta Pi. R e p o r t VII.

Resolved, That the Constitution be amended by adding to the pledge of membership the following: “ 7th. I solemnly promise that I will forever uphold----chapter as a chapter of the B e t a T h e t a P i F r a t e r n i t y .”

All of which reports are respectfully submitted.

J n o . I. C o v in g t o n , Chairman.

C harles D . W a lk er, J no. N . U psh u r, O. R . B r o u se, A. N . G rant,

Committee.

E X H IB IT H. R epo rt

of

C o m m it t e e

on

C ha pters.

To the National Convention of the Beta Theta P i Fraternity: Your Committee on Chapters would present the following report: A l p h a , at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, has had but one member during the past year, Roger Williams, who grad­ uated at the head of his class. There is a strong probability that some old Greeks will enter the University this year, so the chapter will not die.

D e l t a , at Indiana Asbury University, Greencastle, has

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

211

had twenty members this year, was never more prosperous, three Seniors, four Juniors, three Sophomores, six Freshmen, and four Freshmen for next year. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, and Delta Tau Delta. Wilbur Fisk Browder, a glorious Beta, took the first honors of his class.

E p s i l o n , at Centre College, Danville, K y., has had six men during the past year: four Juniors and two Sophomores.

Z e t a , at Hampden-Sidney College, Hampden-Sidney, Va., is the oldest chapter in the South. She is in very good condition, having had eleven regular members this year. The boys of Zeta take a high stand among their fellow-students, often claiming first honors. She will begin the ensuing year with seven regular members, and a good prospect for more.

T h e t a , at Ohio W esleyan U niversity, Delaware, Ohio, still holds up the banner of B e t a T h e t a P i .

Secret societies, for

several y e rs, have been prohibited b y the laws of the College; b u t owing to the untiring energy of B etas from K a p p a and Epsilon A lu't ni, the prohibition has been removed.

T h e ta has

had nine this year; enters the next w ith five.

I o t a , at Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana, was never in

more prosperous condition, has had thirteen members, and enters the coming year with nine. Hanover College is steadily advancing, and Iota keeps pace with her advancement. Rivals— Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Delta Tau Delta.

K a p p a , at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, had thirteen men last year, and enters the next with eight. There is strong vitality in the chapter. Rivals— Delta Tau Delta, Phi Delta Theta.

Mu, at Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tennessee, no report.

Nu, at Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, Pa., enters the coming year with six sturdy Betas. Last year Bruce and Burch carried off first and second honors. Rivals— Phi Kappa Sigma, and Delta Tau Delta.

X i, at Knox College, Galesburg, 111., has had five men during the past year, three Seniors, one Junior, and one Sopho­

212

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

more. She is in sound condition. Rivals— Phi Gamma Delta, and Phi Delta Theta.

O m i c r o n , at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, closed the last session with six members; her prospects are more cheering this year than they have been for some years past.

Pi, at Indiana State University, Bloomington, Ind., has a large membership and is doing well. She enters the coming year with nine. Rivals— Delta Tau Delta, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Gamma Delta.

R h o , at Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Va., has had ten first-rate men; she enters the coming year with six. Her prospects are flattering. Rivals— Epsilon Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Alpha Tau Omega, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, and Chi Phi. Rho has made an excellent Presiding Chapter.

T a u , at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., has had fourteen true Greeks this last year; enters the next with sixteen; her shoulders are strong to bear the burden that comes upon her this year. Rivals— Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Kappa Psi. Psi, at Bethany College, Bethany, West Va., was revived this year and is doing finely; she enters the coming year with one Senior, one Junior, and three Sophomores. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Tau Delta, and Alpha Gamma.

A l p h a A l p h a , at Monmouth College, Monmouth, 111., has had nine during the past year. Her Sieniors bore off the first and second honors in a class of forty-five. She enters the coming year with one Senior, two Juniors, and one Sophomore, and has a brilliant prospect for increase. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Delta Theta.

A l p h a B e t a , at Iowa State University, Iowa City. No report.

A l p h a G a m m a , at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, had twelve men during the past year, six of whom graduated.

Rival— Phi Kappa Psi. A l p h a D e l t a , at Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri, had four men last year.

A l p h a E p s i l o n , at Iowa Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleast, Iowa, is working on well. Rival— Phi Delta Theta.

THE M IN U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

213

A l p h a Z e t a , at Chicago University, has not been heard from during the past year. She is not dead, but untoward circum­ stances have combined to justify a policy of quiet watchfulness at present. Four members still acknowledge allegiance. Alpha Alumni will take what steps are practicable in bringing her back to usefulness.

A l p h a E t a , at Denison University, Granville, Ohio, had nine members last year. Rivals— Sigma Chi, and Phi Delta Theta.

A l p h a T h e t a , at the Virginia M ilitary Institute, Lexington, Va., had fifteen members during the past year. E nters th e com­ ing year w ith nine. H er proximity to the Presiding C hapter has enabled her to give valuable assistance.

A l p h a I o t a , at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, has not been heard from this year. She can be heard of through Shepard Barclay, St. Louis, Mo. A l p h a . K a p p a , at Richmond College, Richmond, Va., was established this year. She has splendid m aterial in her, is des­ tined to be a very fine chapter. Has had twelve members, enters the coming year with eleven. Rival—K appa Alpha.

A l p h a L a m b d a , a t W ooster University, Wooster, Ohio, was established this year. H er prospects are very bright.

She enters the coming year with seven men: two Seniors, one Junior, and four Sophomores.

A l p h a M u , a t Howard College, Marion, Alabama, was also established this year. She bids fair to succeed. E nters the coming year with five men.

A l p h a A l u m n i , at Chicago, Illinois, stands among our foremost Alumni chapters as a worker, as well as in name.

She has at present an enrollment of 47 men, most of them animated with the true Beta spirit. She never fails to send her representative.

B e t a A l u m n i , a t Nashville, Tennessee. No report.

G a m m a A l u m n i , at Indianapolis, Indiana, is alive, and in flourishing condition. She appointed a delegate, b u t he was prevented from attending. Gamma is full of energetic live Betas.

D e l t a A l u m n i , a t Louisville, K entucky. No report.

E p s i l o n A l u m n i , a t Cincinnati, Ohio, is a grand success.

214

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

H erjm en are loyal to th e heart, and a better working chapter is not in existence. She has sixty members, of whom thirtyfive are active workers. To Epsilon Alumni is due a large p art of our prosperity during the past year. Honor to whom honor is due.

I>$ 0 Z e t a A l u m n i , a t Richmond, Virginia, is a new chapter, b u t is well started. She numbers fifteen, and is well represented a t the Convention.

In regard to new chapters, your Committee would recom­ m end to the favorable consideration of the Convention the establishm ent of chapters at N orthwestern University, Evanston, Illinois; a t Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas; and at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin.

Y our Committee deem it best th a t Alpha should have some special attention in order th a t she m ay not go down. We, therefore, recommend th a t Epsilon Alumni take Alpha in hand, and hold her up by all means.

Appended is the list of Corresponding Secretaries. The address given is the Home Address; the College address will be found in preceding list of chapters.

For Delta, A. N. G rant, Burlington, Ind. For Epsilon, Wm. Ayres, Danville, Ky. For Zeta, J. A. Sanderson, Eutaw, Ala. For Theta, P. E. Williams, Delaware, Ohio.

For Iota, E. J. Brown, College Hill, Ohio.

For Kappa, C. H. Dixon, Kingston, Ohio.

For Mu, not known.

For Nu, Jas. Cummins, Wheeling, W. Va. For Xi, Sam ’l P. Dunlop, Galesburg, Ills.

For Omicron, Geo. Mason, Jr. For Pi, G. S. Mitchell, Martinsville, Ind. For Rho, H. St. G. Tucker, Jr., Lexington, Va. For Tau, S. L. W ard, Toledo, Ohio.

For Psi, Jas. H. Anderson, care G. W. Anderson & Son, Richmond, Va. For Alpha Alpha, W. T. Rankin, Keokuk.

For Alpha Beta, not known.

For Alpha Gamma, not known.

For Alpha Delta, J. E. Powell, Lee’s Summit, Mo.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

21S

For Alpha Epsilon, Frank Mahan, Muscatine, Iowa.

For Alpha Eta, T. J. Keating, Granville, 0 .

For Alpha Theta, F. T. Blakemore, Front Royal, Va. For Alpha Iota, not known.

For Alpha Kappa, J. Ad. French, 909 Main Street, Rich足 mond, Va. For Alpha Lambda, R. R. Carpenter, Mansfield, Ohio.

For Alpha Mu, L. A. Connella, Marion, Ala. For Alpha Alumni, O. R. Brouse, 400 Wabash Avenue, Chicago.

For Beta Alumni, R. L. Morris, 21 Deaderick Street, Nash足 ville, Tenn.

For Gamma Alumni, Rev. Frost Craft, Indianapolis, Ind. For Delta Alumni, Dr. F. G. Wilson, Louisville, K y.

For Epsilon Alumni, John I. Covington, 68 W. Third Street, Cincinnati, Ohio.

For Zeta Alumni, W. A. Thom, C ity Alms House, Rich足 mond, Va. Particular attention is called to the fact that the above ad足 dresses are for vacation.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

J a s . H . A n d e r s o n , Chairman.

J. C. H all, W m. H . K ent, J . A . Sa n d er so n ,

Committee.

E X H IB IT K. R e p o r t o f A u d it in g C o m m it t e e .

Your Committee to audit the Report of Finance Committee would present the following: The Report of the Finance Committee at last Convention showed a balance of six dollars ($6.00) due the Presiding Chapter

216

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

of 1871-2. We find no mention made of this balance in the Report of the Finance Committee of this Convention.

In all other respects we believe the report correct.

Respectfully submitted, W . C . P o w e l l , Chairman.

J. H . A nderson, J. C. H all,

Committee.

E X H IB IT L. R epo rt

of

C o m m it t e e

on

E p s il o n

D if f ic u l t y .

[Four members of Epsilon being dissatisfied with the course pursued by another member of their chapter, withdrew from Epsilon and connected themselves with Iota, both chapters approving of the change.]

Your Committee appointed to investigate and report upon the difficulties and misunderstandings which have occurred in Epsilon chapter, and the action of the various parties in­ volved, beg leave to subm it for adoption the following resolu­ tions : Resolved, T h at th e action of certain brethren of Epsilon chapter, in their attem pted withdrawal from said chapter, is wholly unw arranted by the usages and laws of our Order, there being no recognized m ethod of severing the connection of members with the Order except by expulsion.

T h at in this action, and especially in the events which preceded it and appear to have led to it, there seems to be a great w ant of appreciation of the true spirit of Betaism; a w ant of th a t charity and love which should lead to kindly ad­ monition when admonition m ay be necessary; and a want of th a t fraternal feeling which should lead each Beta to zealously defend the honor and good name of his brother.

T h a t the only cover to shield from severe and well-merited censure our brethren of Epsilon, between whom we cannot discriminate, is their extreme youth in the mystic service, and their probable lack of sufficient instruction in those great

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1872

217

principles which constitute all of Betaism, and w ithout which th e name alone would be a mockery and a reproach.

T hat the members of Epsilon be earnestly admonished to lay aside all differences; heal all wounds; study carefully our Constitution, which presents so forcibly the d uty of each to live a life free from reproach, and to sustain and defend his brother; and finally, to show themselves in future to be w orthy in the highest sense of the honors th a t cluster so richly around our honored name, which shall be to them for all time, except through fault of their own, a glorious ornam ent and an unfailing defence.

T hat, while the purest and most generous motives are conceded to Io ta chapter in her action in receiving the w ith­ drawing members, yet th a t action is considered irregular, and does not m eet with the approval of the General Convention.

(Signed)

Jno.

W.

R

o sebro,

Chairman.

O. R . B r o u se ,

W. H. G.

A

dney,

Committee.

On page 213 it is stated that Phi Delta Theta had a chapter at Denison.

This is an error. The chapter was chartered but never established. The in­ tended members joined Beta Theta Pi.

M tinutes o f

Convention o f 1 8 7 3

PR O CE ED IN G S OF T H E T H IR T Y -FO U R TH ANNUAL

N A T IO N A L

CO N VEN TIO N ,

OF THE

B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y H a l l o f t h e C in c in n a t i L a w S c h o o l , C i n c i n n a t i , O., December 29, 1873.

The Convention assembled at 11 A. M., and was called to order by the General Secretary. Upon motion, Major Willis C. Ransom, formerly of Lambda chapter, but now of Alpha Nu, was elected President pro tem., who introduced Hon. Jno. W. Herron, of Epsilon Alumni, who delivered the address of welcome on behalf of that chapter.

The President then appointed the following committees: On Credentials: E. J. Brown, of Iota; E. M. Wambaugh, of Theta; F. Taggart, of Alpha Lambda.

On Permanent Organization: Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni; L. M. Sprecher, of Epsilon Alumni; A. N. Grant, of Delta; J. C. Kauffman, of Alpha Gamma.

On Order of Business: J. S. Lowe, of Psi; M. P. Drury, of Epsilon Alumni; D. W. Cooper, of Nu; J. W. Thompson, of Alpha Lambda; Arthur Stem, of Epsilon Alumni.

On motion, the address of welcome was ordered to be pub­ lished in the Cincinnati daily papers.

The Committee on Credentials then made their report. [vide Exhibit A.] After which, the Convention adjourned to 2 P .M .

2 o’clock P. M., Monday, Dec. 29, 1873.

Convention called to order, President Ransom in the chair.

Minutes of the morning session read and approved.

The Committee on Permanent Organization reported the following officers for the Convention: 219

220

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

President— Maj. W. C. Ransom, of Alpha Nu. Vice-President— Dr. T. A. Reamy, of Theta and Epsilon Alumni.

Chaplain— Rev. 0 . A. Hills, of Tau and Epsilon Alumni.

Secretary— Al. Baker, of Tau. Assistant Secretary— D. H. Cheney, of Alpha Rho. Which report having been adopted, the committee was dis­ charged. Brother Ransom then referred, in a short address, to his early connection with the Fraternity, the changes that have since taken place, its present flourishing condition, and to the organization of Alpha Nu, of which he is a member.

The Committee on Credentials having reported additional delegates [vide Exhibit A] Brother Walker offered the following motion, which prevailed: If any of the several chapters are not represented in this Convention by accredited delegates, the Committee on Cre­ dentials be instructed to select delegates to represent said chap­ ters, provided the delegates, so selected, shall have been members of the chapters they represent.

The Committee on Order of Business made the following report: I. Appointment of Committee on Constitution.

II. Appointment of Committee on Chapters.

III. Appointment of Committee on Finance.

IV. Appointment of Committee on Necrology.

V. Report of Presiding Chapter.

VI. Report of General Secretary.

VII. Report of General Treasurer.

VIII. Report of Song Book Agent.

IX . Report of Committees.

X. Miscellaneous Business.

Report adopted and committee discharged.

The President then appointed the following committees: On Constitution: Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni; C. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta; E. J. Brown, of Iota; Wm. Ayres, of Epsilon; B. G. Keys, of Alpha Eta. On Chapters: W. S. Acomb, of Iota; J. B. Morrison, of Pi; J. W. McKinnon, of Alpha Gamma.

THE M IN U T E S OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

221

On Finance: L. H. Swormstead, of Epsilon Alumni; M. P. D rury, of Epsilon Alumni; W. A. Barr, of Alpha Delta.

On Necrology: J. Cal. Kauffman, of Alpha Gamm a; H. C. M ead, of T heta; J. H. Nesslage, of Psi. On motion, the reports of the Presiding Chapter, General Secretary and General Treasurer were postponed until Tuesday morning.

On motion of Brother Drury, Brother Smith, of Iota, was appointed Sergeant a t Arms.

On motion of Brother Stem, the following members were appointed to attend the reception of guests a t the open exercises on Tuesday evening.

Ushers: A. M. Stem, L. M. Sprecher, H erbert Collins, A. Maxwell, M. P. Drury.

Sergeants a t Arms: E. J. Brown, Horace Smith.

The general question in regard to the establishment of chapters in Eastern Colleges having been introduced and sup­ ported by C. D. Walker of Alpha Theta, A. N. G rant of D elta followed in opposition. The discussion was turned to Columbia College in particular by M. P. Drury, who favored the organiza­ tion of a chapter a t th a t point. Brothers Walker, Nesslage and others entered into the discussion, which closed with some appro­ priate remarks by the President in regard to the im practicability of extension in Eastern Colleges.

M. P. Drury, of Epsilon Alumni, read a letter from the Betas at Princeton, N. J., disapproving of the granting of a charter for the establishment of a chapter at Columbia College, b u t favoring the granting of one at Lafayette College, Pa. A communication was also received from R. B. Rice, of • Alpha E ta, now a student at Lafayette College, containing a proposition for a chapter at th a t place, which was read in con­ nection with several letters from members of Alpha E ta, re com mending Brother Rice to the Convention. This question, connection with th a t of Columbia College, was referred to the Committee on Chapters.

On motion, it was decided th a t members unaccompanied by ladies on Tuesday evening should be seated in a body.

On motion, Convention adjourned to meet at 8 P. M.

222

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

Monday Evening, 8:30 P. M., December 29, 1873.

Meeting called to order by President Ransom.

Minutes of the afternoon session read, corrected and ap­ proved.

Com mittee on Credentials reported additional delegates. [vide Exhibit A .]

On motion of Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni, the adopting of the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper as the official organ of the Fraternity was then considered. After a thorough dis­ cussion of the subject, and a statement of the financial condition of the paper by its editor, C. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta, the motion was unanimously carried. [Vide Exhibit C.] On motion, C. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta, was unanimously elected editor of the B e t a T h e t a Pi for the ensuing six months.

On motion, a committee of three were then appointed to determine the manner of conducting the paper during the coming year, consisting as follows: Phil. N. Moore, of Alpha; J. Cal. Kauffman, of Alpha Gamma, and A. N. Grant, of Delta.

Brother D. H. Moore being called on for a speech, responded in his usual happy manner.

W. A. Barr, of Alpha Delta, reported the death of James Chrisman, who had accepted the invitation of the members of that chapter to become a member of the Fraternity, but who died be­ fore being initiated. Brother Barr desired the Convention to decide whether Mr. Chrisman’s name ought to appear in the Catalogue or not, which, on motion of Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni, was decided in the affirmative.

An invitation, was then read from S. F. Covington, Esq., President of the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce, extending the courtesies of that body to the members of the Convention, during its session, which was heartily accepted, and a unanimous vote of thanks tendered that honorable body.

After singing and joining in the “ Mystic Circle,” Convention adjourned until 10 A. M. Tuesday.

Tuesday, 10:45 A. M., December 30, 1873.

Convention called to order by President Ransom.

Meeting opened with prayer by Brother E. J. Brown.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

223

Minutes of previous meeting were read and approved.

The report of Tau as Presiding Chapter having been pre­ sented and read, the General Secretary then read a report of his transactions for the past year-and-a-half, both of which were referred to the following committees. [Vide Exhibit D.\ On Report of Presiding Chapter: C. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta; J. Cal. Kauffman, of Alpha Gamma; Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni.

On Report of General Secretary: A. N. Grant, of Delta; T. F. Rose, of Pi; Jno. I. Covington, of Epsilon Alumni.

The General Treasurer being absent, and the committees not being ready to report, the Convention next took up mis­ cellaneous business. The first question taken under considera­ tion, was in regard to the time and place for holding the next (36th) Convention.

D. H. Cheney, of Alpha Rho, was requested by O. R. Brouse, of Alpha Alumni, to state to the Convention that if they chose to make Chicago their next place of meeting, his chapter would do all in its power to make the meeting pleasant and profit­ able. After considerable discussion, the matter was placed in the hands of the following committee: A. N. Grant, of Delta; C. H. Dixon, of Kappa; W. S. Cowan, of Theta.

The subject of Presiding Chapter was next in order. Owing to the fact that Chi, the next chapter in rotation, is still compelled to remain sub rosa, which would prevent her from performing the duties of the office in a becoming manner; and Psi, the next, being small and unwilling to take such a great responsibility, quite a warm discussion ensued, which resulted in Alpha Alpha being unanimously chosen, until her successor shall be appointed by the next Convention.

The following resolution was offered by Brother Rose, of P i: Resolved, That power be granted to Alumni chapters to initiate any person elected by any active chapter in the State in which said Alumni chapter is situated.

Which resolution was referred to the Committee on Consti­ tution, and immediately reported back, with the suggestion that it be adopted. The discussion which followed was a warm one, being entered into by a number of brethren on both sides, and

224

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

continued until the close of the session, when further discussion was postponed until 2 P. M. Convention then adjourned in a body to visit the Chamber of Commerce.

2130 P. M., Tuesday, December 30, 1873.

Convention called to order by President Ransom.

Minutes of the morning session read and approved.

The resolution offered at the morning session, in regard to the initiation of new members by Alumni chapters, being next in order, after considerable discussion a motion was made that it be laid on the table, which was carried.

Committee on the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper offered their report, which was received and adopted. [Vide Exhibit C.\ The Committee on Report of the General Secretary then re­ ported, which was received, and referred to the Committee on Constitution. [Vide Exhibit D.] Brother Covington then read a letter and report from the committee from Alpha Alumni, appointed by the last Convention, to revise the Constitution. [Vide Exhibit D.] Thd discussion of the Report was made the special order of business for Wednesday morning.

The Committee on Convention reported in favor of holding the next Convention in Evansville, Ind., beginning on the third Tuesday of August, 1875, which report was adopted.

On motion of Brother Walker, the Presiding Chapter was instructed to choose an editor to take the place of the present editor of the paper, at the end of six months.

The following committee was appointed on Ritual of Initia­ tion, and ordered to report to the Committee on Constitution: J. C. Hall, of Delta; S. N. Wilson, of Iota; W. T. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha.

The Committee on the Report of the Presiding Chapter offered their report, which was adopted. [Vide Exhibit B.\ The Convention then adjourned until 7 P. M. Tuesday Evening, Dec. 30, 1873.

The Convention was called to order at 7 P. M., President Ransom in the chair. The minutes of the afternoon session were read and approved.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

225

On motion, the Convention adjourned to College Hall, to listen to the address of Hon. Stanley Matthews, of Cincinnati, O., and the poem of Rev. Earl Cranston, of Jacksonville, Ills., which were delivered to the Convention and its invited guests.

9:30 A. M., Wednesday, December 31, 1873.

Convention called to order at 9:30 A. M., President Ransom in the chair.

Minutes of the last session approved.

The report of Alpha Alumni’s Committee on Constitution, which was made the special order of business for this morning, was then taken up. The articles were read by sections, and after being thoroughly discussed, were voted upon separately. After amending sections 10, 12 and 13 of Article 2d, and sections 1,2 , 4, 5 and 6 of Article 3d, the Constitution was adopted as reported by the committee. * The General Treasurer made his report, which was referred to the Committee on Finance. [Vide Exhibit C.] Convention then adjourned to meet at 2 P. M. 2 P. M., Wednesday, December 31, 1873.

Convention called to order at 2 P. M., President Ransom in the chair.

Minutes of morning session approved.

The Committee on Chapters reported on the condition of active chapters, and recommended that measures be taken by this Convention looking to the re-establishment of Lambda Prime chapter, at Ann Arbor, Mich. In regard to establishing chapters at Columbia College, N. Y . City, and at Lafayette College, Easton, Pa., they reported unfavorably for the former, and in the absence of the necessary information made no report on the latter. Report accepted, [vide Exhibit F] but adoption post­ poned until there should be a larger attendance of the members of the Convention.

On motion, the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That Delta chapter, with the General Secretary as * Down to this date the Second Constitution (probably of 1840) had been in force.

226

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

Chairman, be appointed a special committee, with instructions to do all in their power to re-establish Lambda Prime chapter, at the University of Michigan.

Committee on Finance presented their report, which was adopted. [Vide Exhibit C.] Committee on Form of Initiation presented their report, which was received, and the working of the same referred to the Presiding Chapter and the General Secretary, with instructions that the proposed plan be used until the next Convention, and that each chapter be furnished with a copy of the same. [Exhibit withheld.]

On motion, a unanimous vote of thanks was tendered Brother C. D. Walker for the faithful performance of the duties of General Secretary.

On motion, the Convention proceeded to the election of officers, with the following result: President of Fraternity: President Presiding Chapter, ex officio.

General Secretary: A. N. Grant, of Delta chapter.

General Treasurer: R. Harvey Young, of Epsilon Alumni.

The President appointed the following committee to obtain the addresses of the Corresponding Secretaries of the different chapters, for publication in the Fraternity paper: A. N. Grant, of Delta chapter; W. T. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha chapter; J. H. Nesslage, of Psi chapter.

On motion of Brother C. H. Dixon, Brother Jno. I. Coving­ ton was appointed Brother C. D. Walker’s successor as editor of the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper, at the expiration of his term of office.

Committee on Necrology reported ten deaths since the last Convention. [Vide Exhibit E ] Report adopted.

On motion, copies of the part of said report which referred to our deceased brothers Roger Williams and Archie Reed were ordered sent to their respective families.

On motion, the obituary notice of Brother W. H. Thomas, which appeared in the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper, was inserted in the report of the Necrology Committee.

A communication was then read from Brother Luke Wood, of Evansville, Ind., containing his memorial on the life of Grif.

!|

THE M IN U TES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

227

M. Shaw, of Tau, whose death is recorded in the report of the Necrology Committee.

The following committee was then appointed to superintend the compiling of the next Catalogue, with instructions to report at the next Convention: Committee on Catalogue: W. C. Ransom, of Alpha Nu chapter; Dr. T. A. Reamy, of Epsilon Alumni chapter; O. R. Brouse, of Alpha Alumni chapter; Geo. E. Martin, of Alpha Gamma chapter; D. H. Cheney, of Alpha Rho chapter.

The Report of the Committee on Chapters was then taken up, and adopted. [Vide Exhibit F.] Brother T. A. Ream y then read a letter from Brother E.B. Stevens, regretting his inability to be present with us. After which, Convention adjourned to meet at 7 P. M. 7 P. M., Wednesday, December 31, 1873.

Convention called to order, Vice-President Reamy in the chair.

Meeting opened with prayer by the Chaplain, Rev. O. A. Hills.

Minutes of the previous meeting read and approved.

Brother Jno. I. Covington read a letter from Brother D. Linton, one of the founders of the Fraternity, now residing in Lynn county, Kansas.

Also, a communication from Brother John Reily Knox, the originator of the Order, containing his recollections of the early days of the Fraternity, written for this Convention. A t the sug­ gestion of the President, the General Secretary was instructed to correspond with all of the founders of the Order living, requesting them to send him their photographs, in order that they might be preserved in the archives of the Fraternity, and incorporated in the next Catalogue.

A letter was then read from Brother C. J. Seaman.

On motion, the thanks of the Convention were extended to the Shakespeare Club, of Cincinnati, for their kindness in yielding the use of their hall for Wednesday evening, December 31st, during the delivery of the oration and poem. Also to Epsilon Alumni chapter for the kindness and hospitality ex­ tended towards the members of this Convention.

228

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

■II On motion, the General Secretary was instructed to request all the chapters to adopt at once Mottoes and Coats of Arms, in order that they may appear in the next Catalogue.

Brothers Grant, Baker, Young and Covington were ap­ pointed a committee to attend to the printing of the Proceedings of the Convention.

On motion of Brother D. W. Cooper, of Gamma, the name of his chapter was changed to that of Gamma and Nu, the latter chapter having been united with the former, in the consolidation of Washington and Jefferson Colleges.

A vote of thanks was tendered Maj. W. C. Ransom, for the able manner in which he performed the arduous duty of presiding officer during the sessions of the Convention; also, to VicePresident Reamy, Secretaries Baker and Cheney, and Sergeant at Arms Smith.

Brother T. A. Reamy presented an old letter, written by John Reily Knox in 1843, to Brother E. B. Stevens, giving a his­ tory of the origin of the Order, which, in connection with the sketch previously furnished by Brother Knox, was ordered to be published with these proceedings. The letter was much worn and mutilated.

On motion, it was decided that whenever any chapter should become extinct, its records, charter and papers should be sent (by its nearest of kin), to the Historiographer of the Fraternity.

The Convention then adjourned to the Merchants’ Hotel to partake of a banquet tendered them by Epsilon Alumni chapter.

A t the conclusion of the banquet, January 1, 1874, 12 o’clock, A. M., the Thirty-fourth Annual Convention was for­ mally adjourned sine die.

W. C. R a n s o m , President.

A l. B a k e r , Secretary.

D. H. C h e n e y , Asst. Secretary.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

22p

EXHIBITS E X H IB IT A To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials submit the following report i Delegates present: Delta, A. N. Grant; Epsilon, Wm. Ayres; Zeta, No delegate; Theta, W. S. Cowen; Iota, W. S. Acomb; Kappa, C. H. Dixon; Nu, D. S. Cooper; Xi, M. P. Drury; Pi, T. T. Rose; Rho, W. O. Roberts; Tau, Al. Baker; Psi, J. H. Nesslage and J. S. Lowe; Alpha Alpha, W. T. Rankin; Alpha Gamma, J. W. McKinnon; Alpha Delta, W. A. Barr; Alpha Eta, B. S. Keys; Alpha Theta, C. D. Walker; Alpha Lambda, F. Taggart and J. W. Thompson; Alpha Nu, W. C. Ransom; Alpha Pi, W. F. Boyd; Alpha Rho, D. H. Cheney; Delta Alumni, F. C. Wilson; Epsilon Alumni, Arthur Stem; E ta Alumni, T. R. McPherson.

Visitors present: Hon. John W. Herron, S. C. Ayres, I. B. Wright, Jno. I. Covington, Alpha and Epsilon Alumni; Dr. E. Williams, Delta and Epsilon Alumni; Dr. T. A. Reamy, L. H. Swormstead, Charles A. Turner, John M. Pattison, Theta and Epsilon Alumni; Hon. Stanley Matthews, Beta Prime and Epsi­ lon Alumni; Rev. O. A. Hills, Tau and Epsilon Alumni; Hon. O. J. Dodds, Tau, Alpha and Epsilon Alumni; Rev. Nathaniel West, Lambda Prime and Epsilon Alumni; Rev. David H. Moore, G. W. Boyce, Kappa and Epsilon Alumni; Rev. Earl Cranston, A. J. Michael, Kappa; D. W. McClung, Phil. N. Moore, Alpha; W. Thayer, E. R. Hiett, J. C. Hall, C. F. Good­ win, L. S. Cumback, Delta; J. W. Yerkes, J. B. Worrall, Epsilon; W. V. Cox, F. M. Cowen, W. P. Thirkield, H. C. Mead, E. M. Wambaugh, H. Marshall, Theta; J. O. Stilson, E. J. Brown, S. N. Willson, J. C. Thompson, H. R. Smith, W. K. Archibald, Iota; A. Maxwell, J. B. Morrison, W. B. Wilson, Pi; G. S. Mitchell, C. M. Hobbs, Pi and Epsilon Alumni; G. C. Rankin, Alpha Alpha;

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

J. C. Kauffman, W. F. Keeler, J. H. Prugh, G. M. Heindel, Alpha Gamma; L. M. Sprecher, Alpha Gamma and Epsilon Alumni; J. H. Brierly, F. W. Harmon, T. J. Keating, W. Keys, Alpha Eta; S. H. Collins, Alpha Eta and Epsilon Alumni; R. Harvey Young, Gamma and Epsilon Alumni.

E . J. B r o w n ,

F. T a g g a r t , E. M. W a m b a u g h , Committee.

E X H IB IT B To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Report of Presiding Chapter would recommend the reception of said report, with this amendment: That the name of Alpha Alpha be stricken from the list of those chapters under the ban of Anti-fraternity Trustees and Faculties.

As the subject of the establishment of chapters at and Lafayette Colleges has already been referred to mittee on Chapters, we recommend that the subject establishment of Lambda Prime be also referred to committee.

Columbia the Com足 of the re足 the same

Further, as the questions of honorary membership, of grant足 ing charters, and of empowering Alumni Chapters to initiate members, have been referred to the Committee on Constitution, we find nothing else to engage the attention of the Convention.

Tau certainly deserves the heartiest thanks of the Con足 vention for the efficient manner in which she has discharged the duties of Presiding Chapter.

C h a s . D. W a l k e r , J . C a l. K a u ffm an, J n o . I . C o v in g t o n , C i n c i n n a t i , December 30, 1873.

Committee.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

231

R e p o r t o f P r e s id in g C h a p t e r

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Presiding Chapter for the past year respectfully sub­ mits the following report: The eighteen months that have elapsed since we last met in National Convention are filled with much to cheer and encourage us, since they have been months of almost unexampled prosperity to our Order.

The duties of the Presiding Chapter were very materially lessened and simplified by the establishment of the offices of General Secretary and General Treasurer. That these offices were needed, and that the brothers chosen to fill them have been faithful, is shown by the smooth working of the business affairs of the Fraternity.

Correspondence, which has been so important an element in the life of the Order, although not carried on as regularly as for­ merly, perhaps, has been rendered far more effective than ever before through the columns of the B e t a T h e t a Pi. The paper has proven to be the very medium needed for inter-chapter correspondence, and the discussion of questions of general Fraternity interest.

Brother Walker deserves the thanks of every Beta, and the paper should be adopted by the Fraternity as its official organ, securing a form more convenient for preservation. The paper should have the support of every Beta, whether Alumnus or undergraduate. We feel safe in saying that the members of every chapter are now better acquainted with the condition of affairs of the Order at large than could have been brought about by ordinary letter communication, and from this fact we hope to see the Thirty-fourth Annual Convention of the Fraternity the most successful one we have ever had.

The first addition to our ranks which we are permitted to report, is that of Alpha Nu, at Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas. She holds undisputed sway, and has met with great success.

Alpha Xi, at Randolph Macon, Ashland, Va., was next admitted, and has been in good working order for almost a year.

232

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

The institution was reported at last Convention as not ready for our advent; but an application, with strong endorsements, was wisely accepted.

Alpha Omicron, at Trinity College, Texas, is our first Lone Star chapter, and reports her condition good.

Alpha Pi, University of Wisconsin, at Madison, Wis., is well established. With her strong force of upper-class men, she will exert a powerful influence.

Chi has thrown off the prime, and is doing good work for her­ self and the Fraternity. To Chi is due the honor of the estab­ lishment of Alpha Pi chapter.

Alpha Rho is the baby of our family, but with Alpha Alumni to strengthen it, its rapid growth is bound to be permanent.

E ta (Alumni), at Evansville, Indiana, is the only Alumni chapter formed since our last Convention. It has twelve mem­ bers, who meet regularly.

We are sorry to be compelled to call to mind the loss of our cherished mother Alpha, who died with the death of the institu­ tion in which she dwelt, after a long and arduous struggle.

Alpha Beta has suspended pro tem., owing to some unex­ plained internal difficulty.

The last Convention of the Fraternity, on the invitation of Delta Alumni chapter, appointed Louisville, K y., as the place for the convening of the Thirty-fourth Annual Convention, and August 20, 1873, as the time specified.

It soon became apparent that there were not enough active members connected with that chapter to undertake the expense and labor of a Convention, and at their request, we, on the part of the Fraternity, accepted the kind invitation of Epsilon Alumni, and appointed Cincinnati as the place of meeting. Ow­ ing to the prevalence of cholera in that city about August 1st, Epsilon Alumni chapter was induced to postpone the Conven­ tion until December 29th, which action we heartily indorsed.

Early during the College year, a proposition to grant a char­ ter to Columbia College, New York City, was sent to Presiding Chapter to be submitted to the Fraternity. As the information regarding the probable strength of the proposed chapter, and the general standing of the academic branch of the University, was not full enough to warrant the hope that the charter would be

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

233

granted, to allow time for working the case up, the proposition was laid on the table, to be brought up for discussion at this Convention.

Correspondence with brother Rice, of Alpha Eta, now at La­ fayette College, Pa., has resulted in a similar proposition from that institution.

Syracuse University, New York, has also been mentioned as a favorable place to organize a chapter. To each and all of these propositions we are favorably inclined, provided the Fraternity will not be weakened by their establishment.

We have now advanced so far, that it seems natural that our attention should be turned eastward. But considering the foot­ ing that other Fraternities already possess there, too much care cannot be exercised.

Lambda, at Ann Arbor, Michigan, we think, might be re­ established, and the question is, will the Thirty-fourth Annual Convention make some effort toward its resuscitation ?

Opposition to secret Fraternities on the part of Faculties is growing less, but we have several chapters that are compelled to work under all the disadvantages that college government can throw in the way.

Alpha Alpha, at Monmouth, 111., Chi, at Beloit, Wis., and Alpha Eta, at Granville, Ohio, are all sub rosa.

In some of these institutions, students, on entering, are re­ quired to pledge themselves not to join any secret society. Betas everywhere should use all honorable and possible means to have such rules abolished.

We would respectfully call the attention of the Convention to the manner of granting Charters, and also to the subject of honor­ ary membership, during their coming session.

Thanking the various chapters of the Fraternity for the kind favors extended to her, Tau wishes her sister chapters a Happy New Year.

S. F. T a y l o r , President Tau Chapter. [s e a l ]

C.

H.

M cC a r e r ,

Recorder Tau Chapter.

234

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

E X H IB IT C R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n F i n a n c e

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Finance would respectfully report that they have submitted the report of the General Treasurer to a careful examination, and have found his accounts correct, and the work well done. They have, also, as far as possible, com­ pared the receipts sent the various chapters with the amounts credited them in his report, and find that both agree.

The books of the General Treasurer and General Secretary also coincide.

The report of the General Treasurer makes no exhibit of the affairs of the Song Book Agent, no statement having been re­ ceived from him. In this connection, we would recommend that the Song Book Agent be directed to forward his report to the General Treasurer at his earliest convenience. Also, that in case any chapter should find any discrepancy in its accounts, they shall immediately report it to the General Treasurer.

We would also recommend that before the adjournment of the Convention, the editor of the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper should be voted a sum sufficient to liquidate the debts incurred by him in the publication of that paper. In conclusion, we would respectfully recommend that this Convention express its appre­ ciation of the great work done by the General Treasurer, and the excellent and thoroughly business-like manner in which it has been performed, by a unanimous vote of thanks— said vote to be incorporated in the minutes of the Convention.

(Signed)

L. H. S w o r m s t e d t , Theta.

M. P. D r u r y , X i.

W. A. B a r r , Alpha Delta.

THE M IN U T E S OF THE CON VEN TIO N OF 1873

235

R E PO R T OF T H E G EN ERA L TREA SU RER

R e p o r t f o r t h e Y e a r 1 8 7 1 -7 2 in c o m e :

Alpha chapter.......................................................................... $ 1.00 Delta chapter........................................................................... 2o . 00 Epsilon chapter........................................................................ g . 00 Zeta chapter............................................................................. 7.00 5.00 Theta chapter..........................................................................

Iota chapter............................................................................. 13.00 Kappa chapter................ ........................................................

6.00 Mu chapter................................................................. nothing Nu chapter............................................................................... 9.00 X i chapter................................................................... nothing Omicron chapter..................................................................

6.00 Pi chapter................................................................................. 13.00 Rho chapter............................................................................. 15.00 Tau chapter.............................................................................. 14.00 Psi chapter...............................................................................

5.00 Alpha Alpha chapter..............................................................

8.00 Alpha Beta chapter................................................... nothing Alpha Gamma chapter........................................................... 12.00 Alpha D elta................................................................ nothing Alpha Epsilon............................................................. nothing Alpha E ta ............ ..................................................................... 8.00 Alpha Theta chapter.............................................................. 18.50 Alpha Kappa chapter............................................................. 13.00 Alpha Lambda chapter........................................................... 7.00 Alpha Alumni chapter............................................................ 20.00 Beta Alumni chapter................................................. nothing Gamma Alumni chapter........................................... nothing Delta Alumni chapter............................................... nothing Epsilon Alumni chapter......................................................... 25.00 Zeta Alumni chapter.........................................................

11.00 Total amount collected for the year 1871-72...........$245.50

236

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

R e p o r t f o r 1871-72 e x p e n d it u r e s :

Aug. 21.

Presiding Chapter Account.

Paid as ordered by Thirty-third Convention,

$28. 50

Aug. 21.

Paid as ordered by Thirty-third Convention,

32. 50

Aug. 29.

Song Book Account.

Aug. 23.

Paid C. J. Seaman balance of account, as ordered by Thirty-third Convention........

49.00

Convention Expense Acc’t.

Paid balance on Banquet Expenses..................

12.00

Sept. — . General Secretary.

Paid C. D. Walker for Minutes of the 33d Convention, as per voucher.......................

Paid for Stationery, Printing, etc.....................

Sept. — .

52.50 29.50

General Treasurer.

Paid for Record Books......................................

Paid for Printing Report and Notices............

Paid for Printing 100 Receipts........................

Paid for Expressage ordered by Convention..

2.00 7. 50 2.75 12 5

Tau chapter.

On acc’t of Presiding expenses.. .....................

7.00

Total amt. of Expenditures 1871-72........ $224. 50 Balance to year 1872-73....................

21.00

$2 4 5 . 5 0

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

237

R e p o r t f o r t h e Y e a r 1872-73 ; I n c o m e :

Alpha chapter........................................................................ $ 1.00 Delta chapter.........................................................................

24.00 Epsilon chapter......................................................................

11.00 Zeta chapter............................................................. nothing Theta chapter........................................................................

9.00 Iota chapter...........................................................................

14.00 Kappa chapter.......................................................................

8.00 Nu chapter........ .....................................................................

8.00 X i chapter.................................................................nothing Omicron chapter....................................................................

12.00 Pi chapter...............................................................................

10.00 Rho chapter.............................................................. nothing Tau chapter............................................................................

11.00 Chi chapter.............................................................................

12.00 Psi chapter..............................................................................

7.00 Alpha Alpha chapter............................................................

8.00 Alpha Beta chapter................................................. nothing Alpha Gamma chapter.........................................................

12.00 Alpha Delta chapter.............................................................

9.00 Alpha Epsilon chapter.............. ...........................................

10.00 Alpha Eta chapter................................................................

7.00 Alpha Theta chapter.............................................................

10.00 Alpha Kappa chapter...........................................................

12.00 Alpha Lambda chapter............ . ..........................................

13.00 Alpha Mu chapter................................................... nothing Alpha Nu chapter............................................ nothing due Alpha X i chapter..............................................nothing due Alpha Omicron chapter................................... nothing due Alpha Rho chapter...........................................nothing due Alpha Pi chapter.................................. nothing due— paid 10.00 Alpha Alumni chapter........................................ ..................

20.00 Beta Alumni chapter...................... .................... .. .nothing Gamma Alumni chapter......................................... nothing Delta Alumni chapter............................................. nothing Epsilon Alumni chapter.............On acct. entertainment Zeta Alumni chapter................................................ nothing Eta Alumni chapter.......................................... nothing due B alance from previous year......................................

21.00 Total amount collected............................. $259.00

238

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

R e p o r t f o r t h e Y e a r 1 8 7 2 -7 3 e x p e n d it u r e s

:

General Treasurer: Paid Expressage............................................................ $ Paid Postage for one year and h alf............................

Paid Expressage............................................................

0 6o 6. 0o

General Secretary: Paid as per voucher......................................................

Paid on account of Beta Theta P i.............................

15.51 50.00

Presiding Chapter: Paid on account as per voucher.................................

8.00 Amount paid over to R* H. Young, Treas............... 178.39 ÂŁ259.00 Respectfully submitted, J n o . I. C o v i n g t o n , General Treasurer.

R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n B e t a T h e t a P i N e w s p a p e r

Your committee on the manner of conducting the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper respectfully submit the following report: 1st. That the size and typographical character, as well as the place of publication, be left to the decision of the editor.

2d. The paper to be conducted as heretofore, with a view to circulation among the members of the Fraternity only.

3d. The paper to be issued monthly, except that no numbers be issued during the months ordinarily devoted to the College summer vacation.

4th. The subscription price of the paper to remain $1.50 per annum, or $1.00 for the ensuing six months.

We would furthermore most earnestly urge upon the differ­ ent chapters the importance of furnishing to the editor frequent

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

239

reports of all matters of interest pertaining to the Fraternity.

The paper has proved of great value to the Fraternity so far, but not till all the chapters avail themselves of its columns as a means of communication will the paper attain its true position.

P. N. M o o r e , A. N. G r a n t , J. C. K a u f f m a n , --------Committee.

S t a t e m e n t o f t h e E x p e n s e s a n d C o n d it io n o f t h e B e t a T h eta P i N ew spaper

Dr. T o p rin tin g 300 co p ies a t $35 p e r N o ., 7 mos.................................................... $245.00 To printing 400 copies at $37 per No., 1 m o...................................................... 3 7.00 To printing 300 copies at $25 per No., 4 mos.................................................... 100.00 98.00 To Incidental expenses for y ear................ $480.00— $480.00 Cr.

B y 170 subscriptions at $1.50.................. $255.00 10.00 10 subscriptions at 1.0 0 .................

Advertisements..................................... 2o . 00 Amount advanced by Gen’l Treas. . .

50.00 l3 3 5 -o o — $335-oo

Balance........................................................... $145.00

E X H IB IT D. To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The committee appointed to examine the report of the Gen­ eral Secretary would respectfully report th a t they recommend the adoption of the same in full, and th a t the suggestion of the General Secretary be referred to the Committee on Constitution.

J n o . I. C o v in g t o n , A. N. G r a n t , T h e o . F. R o s e , Committee.

240

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

E X H IB IT D R epo r t of G e n e r a l S e c r e ta r y

Your General Secretary would respectfully submit the fol­ lowing report: September, 1872. Had printed and distributed the minutes of the Thirty-third Annual Convention. Had printed the circular letter of Presiding Chapter, form of Monthly Report, Charters, and blank card for vote.

October. Issued charter to Chi chapter at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin, together with Constitution, Ritual, Legend of Frontispiece, and description of Pins.

November. Submitted proposition to found a chapter at University of Kansas, which was carried.

December. Issued Charter and accompanying papers to chapter at the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, entitled Alpha Nu, and composed of following Charter members: Major W. C. Ransom, of Lambda chapter; Rev. T. T. Gardner, of Beta; L. D. L. Tosh, of Alpha; Ralph Collins, E. B. Noyes, L. D. Lambert, E. H. Bancroft, and C. F. Bassett.

March, 1873. Submitted a proposition to found a chapter at Randolph Macon College, Ashland, Virginia, which was carried.

April. Issued Charters to an Alumni chapter at Evansville, Ind., entitled Eta Alumni, and to chapter at Randolph Macon College, Ashland, Virginia, entitled Alpha Xi, and composed of following Charter members: A. E. Bradenbaugh, W. A. Frantz, E. L. Vandiver, W. L. Richardson, E. D. Newman and S. 0 .

Harris.

May. Submitted propositions to found chapters at Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, and at University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, which were carried; also, had printed form of application for Charter and circular to accompany its issue.

June. Issued Charters and accompanying papers to chapter at Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, entitled Alpha Omicron, and composed of following Charter members: R. J. Haynes, R. M. Fancher, G. W. Runnels, J. L. Spenlin, R. M. Chapman, E. L. Givens and W. G. Ratcliff; and to chapter at University of Wis­ consin, Madison, Wisconsin, entitled Alpha Pi, and composed of following Charter members: J. W. Hiner, H. R. Cook, C. J. Wil­

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

241

kin, C. F. Harding and C. J. Hunter. Also, submitted proposi­ tion to found a chapter at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, which was carried. Issued Charter to this chapter, which was entitled Alpha Rho, and composed of the following Charter members: Henry S. Boutell, Irving Queal and D. H. Cheney.

October. Submitted proposition to found a chapter at Co­ lumbia College, New York, which was tabled by the Presiding Chapter, to be acted on by this Convention.

To this record of acts performed, I would respectfully ask to add a few suggestions. First, that power be given to the Gen­ eral Secretary to appoint four Chief Assistants, each to take charge of a district, composed of several States, and to work thor­ oughly over the ground of his district, getting a perfect knowl­ edge of propositions, and having put them in form, submit to the General Secretary: after which, method of procedure as before. The districts to be as follows: 1st. Headquarters at Alexandria, Va.— West Virginia, Vir­ ginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

2d. Headquarters at Cincinnati, O.— Ohio, Eastern States and Middle States.

3d. Headquarters at Greencastle, Ind.— Indiana, Ken­ tucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.

4th. Headquarters at Chicago, Ills.— Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa and Minnesota.

5th. Headquarters at Lawrence, Kansas— States west of Mississippi river, Kansas and Missouri.

Second, that after all knowledge has been obtained, it be pub­ lished in paper in full, with challenge to all Betas for objection.

Third, that if after the issue to chapters, votes be not returned in fifteen days, the General Secretary issue to dilatory chapters a second proposition, and if vote be not returned in fifteen days after second issue, the chapter’s vote be recorded in the affirmative.

Respectfully submitted, C h a s . D. W a l k e r ,

General Secretary Beta Theta Pi, 1872—73.

242

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

R e p o r t o p A l p h a A l u m n i C h a p t e r o n C o n s t it u t io n

To Alpha Alumni Chapter, Beta Theta Pi: Mr. President and Brethren:— Your committee appointedjto draft a New Constitution and Code of Laws, in accordance with the action of the last Annual Convention of the Order, would report the accompanying document as the draft of the Consti­ tution recommended. [.Exhibit withheld.*] And would report that it was thought impracticable for us to suggest a proper form for Laws at this time, and therefore we recommend that the draft­ ing of a Code of Laws be remitted again to the Convention, be­ lieving that the Laws needed now in addition to this Constitution will be few and ought to be carefully discussed by the Conven­ tion in a general way, before even a Code could properly be drafted.

E. B . C h a n d l e r , 0 . R . B ro u se, C h i c a g o , December 22, 1873.

Committee.

Approved and respectfully submitted to the Convention at Cincinnati.

R . W. S m i t h , President.

D. G. H a m i l t o n , Secretary.

R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n C o n s t i t u t i o n

I. We recommend that the Constitution, as presented by Alpha Alumni chapter, be adopted. Such adoption will settle the questions of honorary membership, and Alumni initiations referred to your committee, making further reference to them unnecessary.

II. We recommend that the General Secretary be allowed and instructed to draw up such laws as may be necessary for the well-working of his department, and that with the consent of the Presiding Chapter, these laws be allowed to go into tentative operation, until the next Convention may ratify them as a part of the General Code. This will refer the suggestions of your *See page 255.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

243

present General Secretary, upon which we were ordered to report, to his successor.

III. We recommend that the same power and instruction be given to the General Treasurer.

Respectfully submitted, J n o . I. C o v in g t o n , C h a s . D. W a l k e r , W m . A y r e s , Contra I. E. J. B r o w n .

E X H IB IT F. To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Chapters respectfully submit the follow­ ing report: Delta, at Indiana Asbury University, Greencastle, Ind., numbers twenty members. During the past year, two Fraterni­ ties have given up their Charters, viz.: Phi Delta Theta, and Delta Tau Delta. Four rivals still remain: Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, and Sigma Chi. Epsilon, at Centre College, Danville, K y., has had thirteen men, distributed as follows: Seven Seniors, three Juniors, one Sophomore, one Freshman and one resident student. Prospects good. The rival Fraternities are Phi Delta Theta, Delta Kappa, and Alpha Kappa Phi. Zeta, at Hampden-Sidney College, Prince Edward county, Va., has had eleven members, and is in a flourishing condition.

Theta, at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, consists of sixteen members, distributed as follows: One Senior, four Juniors, seven Sophomores and four Freshmen. Her rivals are Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Phi, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Chi Phi. The “ Greeks” at Theta are doing a good work. They have leased a hall for a number of years, and furnished it in an excellent manner, which fact adds greatly to the pleasure of their meetings.

Iota, at Hanover College, Hanover, Ind., has a membership of twelve, three of whom are new men. Rivals: Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Delta Tau Delta.

Kappa, at Ohio University, Athens,O., has four men, as

244

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

follows: one Senior, one Junior and two Freshmen.

Delta Tau Delta, and Phi Delta Theta.

Rivals :

Mu, at Cumberland University, Lebanon, Tenn., is un­ represented. Rivals: Delta Tau Delta, and Phi Delta Theta.

Nu, at Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, Pennsylvania, consists of nine members, distributed as follows: Four Seniors, two Juniors, two Sophomores and one Freshman.

Rival Fraternities: Phi Kappa Sigma, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Gamma Delta, and Iota Alpha Kappa.

Xi, at Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois, no Delegate.

Omicron, at University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va. No regular report, but in good spirits.

Pi, at the State University, Bloomington, Ind., has been remarkably successful. Beginning with but six members, five additional ones were selected from other Fraternities, as follows: Two were Delta Tau Deltas, two Phi Delta Thetas, and one Phi Kappa Psi. The Delta Tau Deltas and Phi Gamma Thetas, have sent up their charter; Pi now rejoices in the possession of 11 members. Her rivals are Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, and Sigma Chi. Rho, at Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Vir­ ginia, is in good condition. Rivals, Epsilon Chi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Alpha Tau Omega, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Alpha Gamma, Kappa Alpha, Delta Psi, and Theta Delta Chi. Tau, at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Indiana, has at present 13 members, classified as follows: Three Seniors, five Juniors, two Sophomores and three Freshmen. She well de­ serves the thanks of the Fraternity for the able manner in which she served as Presiding Chapter. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Delta Tau Delta.

Chi, at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin, has been re-es­ tablished since the last Convention, and is in a very prosperous condition. The opposition to Fraternities on the part of the College authorities compels her to work at a disadvantage.

Their existence there is a matter of secrecy.

Psi, at Bethany College, Bethany, West Virginia, is in a prosperous condition.

Membership five, as follows: One Ju­

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

245

nior, two Sophomores, and two Freshmen. Rivals, Phi Kappa Psi, Alpha Gamma and Delta Tau Delta.

Alpha Alpha, at Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois, is in fair condition, with excellent prospects, notwithstanding some opposition on the part of the College authorities. She will do her duty as Presiding Chapter. Membership eight, as follows: Five Seniors, one Junior, one Sophomore and one Freshman. Rivals, Phi Kappa Psi, and Phi Delta Theta.

Alpha Beta, at Iowa State University, Iowa City, no report.

Alpha Gamma, at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, is in excellent condition, and holds a position of power in the College. Her membership is thirteen, distributed as follows: Three Seniors, five Juniors, two Sophomores and three Fresh­ men. Rival, Phi Kappa Psi. Alpha Delta, at Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri, is at present in a flourishing condition, having fifteen members, which number could be easily augmented, but the ideal of the Chapter is high, and they are unwilling to initiate any but the best men. Rivals it has none, all attempts to introduce other Fraternities having been rendered unsuccessful.

Alpha Epsilon, Iowa Wesleyan University, Mount Pleasant, Iowa, no report.

Alpha Zeta, at Chicago University, Chicago, Illinois, no report.

Alpha Eta, at Denison University, Granville, Ohio, is at present suffering from the opposition of the authorities of the institution. Hopes are entertained that a change for the better will shortly take place.

Alpha Theta, at Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia, is reported to be in excellent condition, having initiated five members during the past year.

Alpha Iota, at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, is in a prosperous condition, having eleven active members.

Alpha Kappa, no report.

Alpha Lambda, at Wooster, Ohio, has a membership of seventeen, all active; her prospects are exceedingly flattering.

Rivals, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Sigma Delta Pi. Alpha Mu, no report.

246

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

*Alpha Nu, Lawrence, Kansas, has ten members, distributed as follows: One Senior, two Juniors, four Sophomores and three Resident Graduates. Rivals, none.

Alpha Xi, Randolph Macon College, Ashland, Virginia, no report.

Alpha Omicron, Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, consists of nine members, and is in a flourishing condition.

Alpha Pi, at University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis., has a membership of ten, and is in good condition.

Alpha Rho, at N. W. University, Evanston, Illinois, has seven members, and starts with gratifying prospects for a new Chapter. Rivals, Phi Kappa Sigma and Sigma Chi. Alpha Alumni, at Chicago, Illinois, is in a thrifty condition, and many noble Greeks are to be found marshaled in her ranks.

Beta Alumni, at Nashville, Tennessee, no report.

Gamma Alumni, at Indianapolis, Indiana, no report.

Delta Alumni, at Louisville, Kentucky, no report.

Epsilon Alumni, at Cincinnati, Ohio, consists of sixty members, and is receiving constant accessions to its ranks, its meetings are held monthly, and its condition is exceedingly prosperous.

Zeta Alumni, at Richmond, Virginia, no report.

E ta Alumni, at Evansville, Indiana, is in a prosperous condition.

In reference to the proposed establishment of Chapters at Columbia College, N. Y . City, and Lafayette College, at Easton, Pa., your committee reports unfavorably under the present circumstances. We would, however, recommend that measures be taken to re-establish Lambda Chapter, at Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Respectfully submitted, J o h n B. M o r r is o n , W. S. A c o m b , J. W . M

a c K in n o n ,

Committee. * No. 15 on the roll of this chapter is Rev. Day Otis Kellogg, an honor­ ary member, a graduate of Hobart in the class of 1857- He was a member of Theta Delta Chi at Hobart. He was the orator before the Beta Theta Pi .convention of 1880.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

247

A P P E N D IX .

R E CO LLEC TIO N S OF 1839.

I am asked for some reminiscences of the early days, the prehistoric time of the Beta Theta Pi, the meetings of which no record was kept, and which live only in the recollections of two or three, who are now getting to be oldish men with grizzled beards and whitened hair, what there is of it; and have been earnestly pressed by some of the younger brethren to tell the story of its origin. To this I might well say, “ Story! God bless you, I have none to tell,” but I can give you some recollections of 1839 and of those who were present at and took a part in the organization of the Brotherhood.

It was, then, in January, 1839, when I was in m y senior year at Miami University, that the idea first occurred to me of the organization of our Society. Circumstances had made me somewhat prominent in a rather bitter fight in the Literary Association, of which I was a member, against the Society of the Alpha Delta Phi, and in which, though successful, I had learned to admire the compact organization and the esprit de corps of its members. About the same time, too, I came across an old book, no copy of which I have seen since, and the name of which I have forgotten, giving an account of some of the secret organizations of the Middle Ages. Their knightly vows and pledges were given, with some curious sketches of their inside working and their secret history; and I was, I might almost say, of course, very much interested in these Ancient Brother­ hoods.

Being, as I have said, already impressed with the force that lies in compact organization, an idea that had been a subject of conversation between two or three of us grew on me, and I went to sketching out a plan, the constitution and obligations for a new Society. While engaged in doing this, I had repeated conferences with the gentleman whose name stands second on the roll, S. T. Marshall, now of Iowa. He was considerably my

248

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

senior, anxious that something of the kind should be got up, and urged on the enterprise. The selection of the name being considered an important matter, several combinations were canvassed. Greek, it must be, of course, and while desiring mainly that there should be significance in either the motto or the independent words adopted, we preferred that finally selected as being not only pleasant to the ear, but reasonably significant of the objects of the infant Society. The leading motive of uniting a few choice spirits in closer bonds for improvement in literary exercises and the cultivation of social life, but chiefly the latter, was probably the principal raison d'etre of the new organization. Mutual support and assistance, absolute faith and confidence in each other, and progress in knowledge and scholarship were the fundamental ideas on which we built.

With a view to the cultivation of intimate social relations it was, for instance, originally provided that no more than nine members should at one time be in attendance at the same college; and, as an illustration of the closeness of the tie which was to bind us, the original obligation taken by the neophyte pledged him to his brothers in the Order, that “ their friends should be his friends, and their enemies his enemies.” But at a very early day the introduction of a more Christian element into the organization led to a modification of this rather heathenish pro­ vision. The number, nine, too, was soon dropped, leaving the Order free to select good fellows wherever, and in whatever number, it might find them— and the three stars were no longer indicative of the limited membership (as the root of the mys­ terious nine), but simply remained as the heavenly representa­ tives of the three words of the Order. Other changes have been made in our Constitution, and I have no doubt they are all improvements, for have we not among us some very admirable Constitution makers, lights of the Con. Con.?* but these were all the changes made during my active connection with Alpha Chapter.

The members present at the first meeting of the Order were Brothers Marshall, Linton, Smith, J. G. (poor Leb., as * J. Cal. Hanna suggests that this is a reference to the “ Constitutional Convention” of Ohio, familiarly called the “ Con. Con." in session when the letter was penned.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

249

good a fellow as ever lived, he died young), and myself. The meeting was held in a room occupied at the time by Taylor Marshall, in that part of the College buildings at Oxford, known as “ the old wing.” The venerable pile was abated as a nuisance and reduced to its original elements a few years ago, under the active supervision of that chief of the Goths and Vandals, Bro. John W. Herron, in his capacity of Chairman of the Committee on public grounds and buildings of the Board of Trustees of Miami University. A t that meeting I administered the obli­ gation to the members present, but by inadvertence no one qualified me in turn, so that I am scarce able to say, though my name has always been borne on the Catalogue, that I am entitled to the privileges of those who wear the badge and bear the name of Beta Theta Pi. Soon after this first meeting Charlie Hardin, John Duncan and M. C. Ryan, good and true fellows, were added to the faith­ ful band, and many a pleasant and profitable meeting we had in the early spring and on into the summer of that year of grace, ’39; our commencement at that time being in August, either the first or second Thursday, I am not sure which. A t what time Brothers Johnson and Gordon were added to make up the full number, I do not now recollect. I have been under the impression, too, that Bro. O. C. Weatherby, then of Hamil­ ton, but now, if living, of San Diego, California, was one of the first nine; but in this I am probably mistaken, as his name stands the thirteenth on the Catalogue. But all these matters, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the Order?

I have thus, Brethren, very briefly and in a gossipy way given you some of my recollections of the early days of the Beta Theta Pi. Like reminiscences generally, they are some­ what egotistic, or seem so at any rate. M y only excuse is that I have been writing of things with which I was personally connected, “ magna pars fu i,” and so could not well avoid the use of the personal pronoun. Though somewhat intimately connected, as has been said, with the early days of our Order, that has gone on so prosperously for thirty-five years, half the period of man’s allotted time on earth, yet since then I have had practically but little connection with it— and thus, though largely responsible for its start in life, I can claim no credit for the mag­

250

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

nificent growth it has made. It was only with its small begin­ nings that I had anything to do. But it is needless to say that I take pride in the prosperity of Beta, and have faith in her future. Greatly as her membership has extended, I have what the Frenchman calls the grand confidence in them all. They may say what they please of Colfax and the Credit Mobilier, but I know better. They may call Dan Voorhees a copperhead, and may tell hard stories of Morton’s devotion to the better half of humanity, and may even charge that the gallant Dodds voted for the Salary Grab, but all that is for outsiders, the 01 ttoXXoi (rather bad looking Greek, that, as I recollect it), for the ignorant and unthinking multitude. Credat Judceus Apollo. Are they not all Betas? The initiated know them, and know of them, and their faith is strong. And so you all say, gentlemen.

Of the earlier members of the Order who are referred to by name in this hurried sketch, all but two are still living. Col. R yan was gathered to his fathers in the early days .of the re­ bellion; and J. G. Smith (Jimmy George, as his friends loved to call him) passed from earth soon after his graduation. I don’t know that any of the others have particularly distinguished themselves in life; but then it is some consolation that they have never disgraced themselves or done any decidedly mean things, so far as the world knows, at any rate. We were a pleasant company, pleasant to each other at least, and I should greatly like to meet the survivors again. None of them will be at your festival, brethren. Pray remember them when you drink to the absent.

J n o . R e il y K

nox.

JOHN R E IL Y K N O X TO E. B. STEVEN S. G

r e e n v il l e ,

O., April 14, 1843.

I suppose, my dear fellow, that long ere this you have given me up as a correspondent, and set me down in your list as ‘ faithless.’ I am in truth an inveterate procrastinator, and though no one can take greater pleasure in receiving letters than I do, yet no one can be more dilatory in his answers. But

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

as you, of course, have a right to expect a “ quid pro quo,” I must desert my Castle of Indolence, and do something to call you out. So I have concluded to have done with this putting off— this eternal ‘ to-morrow— and to-morrow— and to-morrow.’

Let me say this much, however, that your letter would have been answered immediately had I not expected to go to Oxford soon after I received it, in which case I would have answered it face to face, which, to a person of my lazy habits, would have been much the more agreeable way of the two. But in this I was disappointed, and the consequence is that your letter has been lying in my drawer and unanswered. It was a sad thing for my poor conscience to look into that drawer, for there the letter was, staring like “ Bancroft's ghost,” and would not down.

You say that you would like to hear from me on the subject of the first movements of the Beta Theta Pi. I have endeavored for some time to make a little record of the early days of the Society, for m y own satisfaction as much as anything, but I have never succeeded in getting started— like many of my other dreams, “ ’twas all a dream.” M any of the circumstances have excaped my recollection in the course of my peregrinations for the last four years. I can but give you an imperfect sketch, therefore, and you must accordingly take the will for the deed.

To begin with the beginning. It was during the winter session of ’38-9, that the idea of forming a secret association first suggested itself to m y mind. I saw that there were many advantages in such an association, which could not otherwise be enjoyed. Such combinations of individuals are as old as the wants of man, and coeval with the growth of literature.

The motto of our own Society, “ Firmam consensus facit," is but an embodiment of the experience of man in all ages and nations.

The history of many of these secret associations had always possessed a charm for me. There was an interest about the actions of men who bound themselves together by vows which were never broken, and who pursued the great objects of their association with an energy that never tired, with a zeal that knew not self, and with a devotedness that never counted gold.

Men have been found among them who labored ‘ from morn till night, from youth to hoary age,’ in one cause and for one object.

Revolutions have been accomplished and despots dethroned b y

252

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

the united action of small but daring associations. The great secret of their success consisted not in numbers, but union; not in great strength, but in well directed and simultaneous exertions. What a few men united in object and effort will to do, can be done; and more than that, such associations teach us in their records how far human friendship can carry us from the shrine of the idol “ self.” * * * * In some of these societies, however, were to be found many objectionable fea­ tures which rendered them liable to be used as engines of evil, as well as instruments of good. Some of these were to be found in the Alpha Delta Phi Society as it was organized at Miami University, and I imagined that an association might be formed which would embrace the good without the ingredient of evil.

M y attention was drawn more forcibly to this by the dissension then existing in the Union Hall, which I conceived originated in the Alpha Society. In some of our conversations on the sub­ ject, Taylor Marshall suggested the idea of building up a Society which might unite the benefits without the disadvantages of the Alphas. I told him I had thought of it, but was afraid that we could not succeed. But if you know Marshall, I need not tell you that he is one of the most sanguine men in existence.

The idea once started, he would not give it up until I set to work.

In the first place I got the Greek Lexicon and turned it over several times in search of a name. The present one was finally selected. Then came the badge. This was more diffi­ cult than the other. You have seen the first pins that were struck. In place of the Crescent we first agreed on “ clasped hands” — but this Taylor had altered when he went to the city to procure the pins. However, the badge has been changed— for the better, I hope. I have never seen the new one. We then went to work on the Constitution. You have seen the draught as it was originally presented. On that I spent my leisure time for a week or more— and many were the long con­ sultations which Taylor and I held over that— night after night up in “ the old wing” we revised and re-revised, until we got it to our satisfaction, though necessarily imperfect, for it was alto­ gether an experiment with me, as I had nothing to go by but imagination, and I believe Taylor was equally inexperienced.

The nest question was, who shall we connect with us in this

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

253

matter? Chas. Hardin roomed next door to Marshall, so we called him in, and I initiated him and Taylor. * * * * A circumstance occurred at this time that came near breaking up the whole affair. Taylor had foolishly enough mentioned something of the affair to a chap whom no doubt you know by reputation— Grimke Swan— an insufferable bore, and a man that I cordially detested; he was, indeed, generally disliked. He found out entirely too much about our proceed­ ings, and was determined to be initiated or expose us. He also knew that Pins had been sent for, and T. had told him that Linton and Hardin were members. To take him would be to bring a perfect incubus on the Society. I would indeed, if we could, have procured another member, had he been brought in; and on the other hand, were he to expose us, that, also, at that time, would have been certain death. Accordingly Linton, Hardin, Marshall and myself met in Charley’s room, and con­ cluded to give a mock initiation, let him pay for a Pin, and have nothing more to do with him.

Taylor went and brought him in, and I got up and admin­ istered an oath to him with all the solemnity of an owl. I told him then that the Society of which he was a member had no written Constitution— that we were to have no more meetings, and take no more members, &c., &c. I then gave him some advice about wearing his Pin, &c., all of which the damned fool sucked down as law and gospel. He left at the close of the session, and what became of him is more than I know.

After we were fairly rid of him, we proceeded in the selec­ tion of members. J. H. Duncan, M. C. Ryan, Tom Gordon and H. T. Johnson were then initiated at successive meetings of the Society, until we got our complement (9), when we met in general conclave, and proceeded to the election of officers.

The rest of the acts of the Beta Theta Pi, are they not written in the book of the Chronicles of that Society? Esto perpetua.

I have thus endeavored, m y dear Stevens, to give you a sketch of the early days of our association; it is imperfect, but correct as far as it goes. I had many other things which I wished to write about, but I find myself rather short of paper— so that I must wait till a future occasion.

I like your remarks on the subject of caution as regards

254

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1873

the movements of the different Chapters. As to our “ m utual friend” S. B. W., I had intended saying something, but “ requiescat in pace” Anything from Oxford is of interest to me, and made doubly so by your letters. So you m ust write soon, Ed. Now, “ by the bones of your ancestors,” and “ by the beard of your father,” I conjure you to write—in good old English phrase, “ for Christe’s deare sake” write—write—write. M y regards to all the B ’s. “ M ay you live a thousand years.”

Adios.

J. R e il y K n o x .

To E . B . S t e v e n s .

This seems to be the first convention attended by Dr. Thaddeus A. Reamy. He was a trustee of Ohio Wesleyan University and was initiated as an honorary member at the time that the anti-fraternity laws were re­ pealed. He was not a college man, but at once took a great interest in the affairs of the fraternity, and served it in many capacities for more than thirty years.

The general secretary in his report suggested a division of the frater­ nity into districts and the appointment of chief assistants, one to take charge of each district. So far as we know, this was the first attempt to make a geo­ graphical distribution of the chapters of a college fraternity, and arrange them in districts for purposes of administration. This plan has been adopted by almost every fraternity since that time, and has done more than any single feature of administration to increase the efficiency of the fraternities and to unify and harmonize their personnel.

The chapter at Northwestern called Alpha Rho in these minutes and for many subsequent years, is now called Rho, its name having been changed when the former Rho chapter at Washington and Lee University became definitely inactive.

Note that Pi chapter regarded it as a creditable thing to mention that it had “ lifted” five men from other fraternities. During the seventies this was a common practice at Indiana, Wabash, Indiana Asbury and Ohio Wes­ leyan.

(Tonstitution* A D O P T E D A T THE T H IR T Y -F O U R T H CO N V EN TIO N OF B E T A T H E T A PI, 1873-1874 PREAM BLE: Believing everything which tends to the development of in足 tellect, the refinement of feeling, the promotion of confidence, and the closer union of kindred hearts, to be in the highest degree beneficial to society, and trusting that we shall in some degree be able to accomplish these ends, we form ourselves into an association to be governed by the following outlines of policy.

A R T IC L E I. S e c t i o n i . This association shall be known as the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

2. The motto of this association shall b e .................. .......................................................... . expressing the object for the promotion of which we have united, denoting our mutual as足 sistance, our devotion to the cultivation of the intellect, and our implicit confidence in each other.

S e c tio n

3. D e s c r i p t i o n o f b a d g e . The visible badge of this association shall be a breastpin, the front of which shall be of black enamel, surrounded by a gold border, bearing; first, three stars in gold denoting the object, expressed in Article I, section 2; second, a diamond encircled by a wreath of gold, the one denoting the character of the members for moral and in足 tellectual worth, and the other, the reward of high aspirations, of honorable and virtuous effort; third, the initials of the name of the association in Greek capitals and in gold; fourth, the date of the foundation in small Greek characters and in gold; fifth, on the back, the initials of the chapter to which he belongs, two S e c tio n

tion.

*W e are indebted to the D e Pauw chapter for a copy of this constitu足 For a long time no copy could be found.

255

256

THE THIRD CONSTITUTION

hands clasped, indicative of friendship, the name of the owner and date of his initiation. But it shall not be considered neces­ sary for any member to wear any visible badge.

S e c t i o n 4.

The associa­ tion may have a grip and pass-words, but these shall in no case be committed to paper.

S e c t io n

5.

G r i p , p a s s - w o r d , a n d so f o r t h .

This association shall be essentially a college

society.

A R T IC L E II. S e c t i o n i . O r g a n i z a t io n , h o w c o m p o s e d .

There shall be chapters of this association composed of mem­ bers, connected with such colleges as have been deemed worthy by three-fourths of the existing chapters.

Other chapters may be formed by members of college chapters, which shall be desig­ nated, Alumni chapters, which shall be enumerated and named separately.

S e c t i o n 2.

F o r m a t io n o f c h a p t e r s .

All chapters shall have concurrent powers, save that alumni chapters shall not have the power to elect new members, except from members of other chapters.

S e c t i o n 3.

P ow ers of c h a pters.

4. N o m e n c l a t u r e o f c h a p t e r s . All chapters shall be named in the order of their establishment, with the Greek letters, thus: Alpha, Beta, etc.; and after the alphabet has been exhausted thus, Alpha Alpha, Alpha Beta, etc.; then Beta Alpha, Beta Beta, etc.; and no chapter shall ever take the letter or letters of any extinct chapter.

S e c t io n

Each chapter shall have a president and secretary, who shall perform the duties usually devolving upon such officers and a corresponding secre­ tary, who shall maintain a system of correspondence with all other chapters of the association.

S e c t i o n 5.

O f f ic e r s o f t h e c h a p t e r s .

S e c t i o n 6.

M e e t in g o f c o n v e n t io n s .

There shall be an annual convention of delegates from all the chapters of this association, which, when duly organized, shall have all powers not inconsistent with the constitution.

THE THIRD CONSTITUTION

257

All who have borne the name of Beta Theta Pi without reproach shall have equal priv­ ileges in the convention, except that in the organization of the convention and at the demand of three (3) members upon any other question, votes shall be taken by chapters, in which case each chapter shall have only one (1) vote.

S e c t i o n 7.

P r iv il e g e d m e m b e r s .

S e c t io n

V o t in g

8.

d u r in g

absence

of

delegate.

No

person shall cast the vote of the chapter unless he be duly commissioned as its delegate, or, unless in the absence of such delegate he be especially authorized thereto by the convention after its organization.

9. N u m b e r n e c e s s a r y f o r q u o r u m . Regular delegates from seven (7) chapters shall be necessary for a quorum of the convention for organization, and business, but the dele­ gates from a less number may adjourn from day to day.

S e c t io n

S e c t i o n 10.

The proceed­ ings of the convention shall be considered valid and binding upon all chapters unless disapproved by more than one-third (]/Q of the chapters within three months after the adjournment of the convention, such disapproval to be officially communicated to the presiding chapter.

P r o c e e d in g s o f c o n v e n t io n s .

All laws enacted by the convention shall be printed or engrossed and preserved in the archives of the association.

S e c t io n i i .

P r e s e r v a t io n o f l a w s .

The convention shall provide an executive officer or officers for the association and may provide funds for the association, provided always that taxes or assessments for general revenues shall not exceed one dollar ($1.00) per year upon any member without the consent of the chapter.

S e c t io n

12.

E x e c u t iv e

o f f ic e r s .

S e c t i o n 13. S p e c i a l c o n v e n t i o n . A s p e c ia l c o n v e n t i o n h a v i n g a ll t h e p o w e r s o f t h e a n n u a l c o n v e n t i o n m a y b e c a lle d if d e e m e d n e c e s s a r y b y t w o - t h i r d s ( % ) o f t h e e x i s t in g c h a p t e r s .

A R T IC L E III. S e c t i o n i . F o r m e m b e r s h i p . No person shall become a member of this association unless the chapter

258

THE THIRD CONSTITUTION

to which he is proposed shall express its implicit confidence in him by electing him unanimously.

Any chapter of this association may by suitably solemn protest debar the election of any candidate for membership in any chapter, and for such protest it shall not be called in question.

S e c t io n

2.

P r o h ib it io n

of

a

cha pter.

T o b e a m e m b e r o f n o o t h e r . N o person, a member of any similar association, shall become a member of this one.

S e c t i o n 3.

Any member of this association may be expelled by a three-fourths (^4) vote of his chapter for proper cause, and after being duly served with notice and copy of the charges against him and after having reasonable opportunity for defense.

S e c t i o n 4.

E x p u l s i o n o f d is l o y a l m e m b e r s .

S e c t i o n 5.

The right of appeal to the convention from the decision of a chapter shall not be denied.

R ig h t o f a p p e a l .

S e c t i o n 6. O b l i g a t i o n s . Every member on being admitted as a member of this association shall solemnly bind himself by the following obligations, administered before the chapter:

[Details omitted— see note on page 12.]

A R T IC L E IV. S e c t i o n i . E x p u l s i o n o f m e m b e r s . The constitution may provide for the suspension or expulsion of any chapter or member for disloyalty.

S e c t i o n 2.

This constitution shall not be altered or annulled except by a three-fourths 0 4 ) vote of chapters at each of two (2) successive annual conventions.

N ot to b e a l t e r e d .

|

Mtinutes of tl)e (Tonvention of 1875 PR O CE ED IN G S OF TH E T H IR T Y -S IX T H A N N U A L CO N V EN TIO N OF TH E

f

B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y O dd F e l l o w s ’ H a l l E v a n s v i l l e , I n d ., August 25, 1875.

The Convention assembled at 2130 P. M., and was called to order by General Secretary Grant. Upon motion, Hon. H. Clay Gooding, of Eta Alumni, was elected temporary chairman. After prayer by Brother S. W. Black, of Iota, the address of welcome was delivered by Rev. Earl Cranston, of Eta Alumni, and the response by Brother John B. Morrison, of Pi. The President then appointed the following committees: On Credentials: Geo. C. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha; Fred.

Terrell, of Delta; A. N. Grant, of Lambda.

On Permanent Organization: R. Harvey Young, of Gamma Nu; J. R. Dobyns, of Alpha Delta; Chas. McCarer, of Tau. Order of Business: W. C. Ranson, of Lambda; W. L. Johnston, of Eta Alumni; B. O. Cowan, of Alpha Gamma.

After a recess, the Committee on Credentials made their report. [Vide Exhibit A.] The Committee on Permanent Organization reported the following: President— Maj. W. C. Ransom, of Lambda and Alpha Nu. Vice-President— Luke Wood, of Eta Alumni.

Secretary— Geo. C. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha.

Assistant Secretary— Fred Terrell, of Delta.

Chaplain— Rev. Earl Cranston, of Eta Alumni.

Seargeant-at-Arms— F. R. Eversoll, of Alpha Delta.

Which report was adopted, and the committee discharged.

The Committee on Order of Business made their report (vide Exhibit B), which was adopted, and the committee dis­ charged.

2S9

260

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

On motion, the President appointed the following Committee on Corresponding Secretaries: A. N. Grant, of Lambda, and Geo. C. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha.

On motion, Convention adjourned to meet at 8 P. M. Wednesday, 8 P. M. Convention called to order by President Ransom. Minutes of previous meeting read and approved.

The following committees were then announced by the President: Committee on Chapters: Brother G. C. Rankin, Chairman, and Brothers G. M. Halm and J. H. Skinner.

Committee on Finance: Brother A. B. Richardson, Chair­ man, and Brothers W. L. Johnston and C. J. Goodenow.

Committee on Constitution and By-Laws: General Secre­ tary, Chairman, and Brothers L. D. L. Tosh and S. W. Black.

Committee on Necrology: Brother Jno. B. Morrison, Chair­ man, and Brothers C. H. McCarer and B. O. Cowan.

Committee on Catalogue: Committee appointed at last Convention continued.

Next Place of Meeting: Brother Fred Terrell, Chairman, and Brothers J. J. Shields and Geo. C. Taber.

Committee on Newspaper: Brother R. Harvey Young, Chairman; Brothers George C. Rankin, A. N. Grant, J. R. Dobyns, W. L. Johnston.

A report was received from the Committee on Catalogue, through Brother Ransom.

The Report of the Presiding Chapter was also received (vide Exhibit C), and referred to Committees on Fraternity Paper, Chapters and Constitution.

Adjourned to meet at 10 A. M., Thursday.

10 A. M., Thursday.

Convention assembled. President Ransom in the chair.

After prayer by the Chaplain, minutes of previous evening session read and approved.

A letter was read by the General Secretary from Brother Charles J. Seaman, the Song-Book Agent.

An interesting letter was also read from Brother John H.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

Duncan, one of the founders of the Fraternity. [Vide Beta Theta Pi, January, 1876.]

A letter was received from Brother R. B. Rice, of Alpha Eta, in regard to N. M. Wolf, of Alpha Eta. Referred to a committee consisting of Brothers Luke Wood, John B. Morrison, and B. 0 . Cowan.

Brother Luke Wood presented a letter from Brother Charles D. Walker, which was referred to Brother Grant and translated by him.

On motion, Eta Alumni was appointed a committee to pro­ vide company for such of the members as desired, on the occasion of the literary exercises in the evening.

Brother Harry C. Warren presented the following resolution, which was adopted: Resolved, That we hereby tender to Brother Chas. J. Sea­ man the thanks of the fraternity for the faithful, earnest work in the line of the Song-Book; and that he be requested to hold all funds received from the sale thereof, for use toward defraying the expense of a new Song-Book.

The General Secretary, Brother A. N. Grant, submitted his report for the past year (vide Exhibit D ), which was adopted.

An interesting letter from Assistant General Secretary O. R. Brouse, was received.

Brother W. C. Ransom made a verbal report as Assistant General Secretary, which was received.

On motion, the following was adopted: Whereas, Brother Charles D. Walker, Ex-General Secretary of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, has extended an invitation to this Convention to be present at his approaching marriage, September 2, 1875, at St. Peter’s Church, Germantown, Pa., therefore, Resolved, That the Convention accept the invitation, and that Rev. D. O. Kellogg, of Alpha Nu, and a resident of German­ town, be appointed Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipo­ tentiary on the occasion of Brother Walker’s nuptials.

On motion, Brothers Warren, Hill and McFerson, were appointed a Committee of Reception, to meet Dr. Parvin, the orator of the evening, at the train.

Adjourned to meet at 2 P. M.

262

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

2 P. M., Thursday.

Convention called to order by President Ransom, and minutes of previous morning’s meeting read and approved.

Rev. Isaac Crook, poet of the evening, was introduced to the Convention.

Committee on Constitution and By-Laws made their report {vide Exhibit E), which was received, and the last clause laid on the table.

Report from Committee on Catalogue received. (Vide Exhibit F.) The committee appointed in the case of Wolf submitted their report (Exhibit G), which was received. The afternoon was spent in discussing this report.

On motion, the following was adopted: Resolved, That it is the sense of this Convention that charges against a member of Beta Theta Pi shall only be made to the chapter where he has been initiated, or to which he has been transferred by charter, or to an Alumni chapter of which he may be a member.

And the report under discussion was adopted.

On motion, Brother R. Harvey Young, Treasurer, was appointed to draft regulations governing the financial affairs of the fraternity, to be presented at the 37th Annual Convention.

On motion, the Presiding Chapter, Alpha Alpha, was in­ structed to draw up a code of laws to cover deficiencies in the existing laws of the fraternity, and to report at the next Annual Convention.

The report of the Committee on Corresponding Secretaries was received. (Exhibit H.) The Committee on Chapters made their report (vide Ex­ hibit I), which was adopted.

The following amendment to the Constitution was presented and adopted: S e c . 5. Any member of this Association may change his membership from one chapter to another under such conditions as the By-Laws or regulations of such chapter may prescribe, or by transfer as charter members of new chapters. But in case of removal of a member of the Association from the college where his own chapter is located to within the jurisdiction of another

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

263

chapter, he shall become amenable to the latter for purposes of discipline, and each chapter shall have sole jurisdiction for all purposes whatsoever in the colleges where they are established.

Brother H. C. Warren proposed the following amendment to the Constitution, which was adopted: The Conventions of the Beta Theta Pi shall be held bi­ ennially.

The following resolution was presented by Brother R. H. Young, and adopted: Resolved, That the Committee on Catalogue be authorized to proceed with the publication of the same in the manner pro­ posed by them, and that the Corresponding Secretaries of the various chapters that have not sent in their reports and chapter headings be instructed to send them immediately to Brother Doc. H. Cheney, Chicago, 111., in order that they may be incor­ porated at once.

An invitation was received from Brother McFerson to visit his residence.

The Convention then adjourned to attend the literary exercises in the evening, consisting of an oration by Brother Theophilus Parvin, of Indianapolis, and a poem by Brother Isaac Crook, of Jacksonville, 111., followed by a banquet tendered by Eta Alumni, at St. George Hotel.

J 10 A. M., Friday.

Convention called to order; President Ransom in the chair.

Prayer by Rev. Isaac Crook. Minutes of previous afternoon session read and approved.

The Committee on Convention reported in favor of holding the next Convention in Detroit, Mich., commencing on the first Wednesday in September, 1876, which report was adopted.

The Report of the Committee on Newspaper was received and adopted. (Vide Exhibit K.) The Convention listened to interesting farewell addresses from Brothers Earl Cranston and Isaac Crook.

The election of officers being in order, the result was as follows: Presiding Chapter— Delta.

General Secretary— Doc. H. Cheney, of Alpha Alumni.

264

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

General Treasurer— R. Harvey Young.

Brother Grant offered the following resolution, which was adopted: Resolved, That in case the Chief Assistant Secretary, General Secretary, and Presiding Chapter disapprove of a propo­ sition to establish a chapter at any college, the proposition be laid on the table till the succeeding Convention.

The President was authorized to issue a circular immediately to the chapters, announcing the re-establishment of the Beta Theta Pi newspaper, and other actions. (Vide Circular, Exhibit 0 •) The Report of Committee on Necrology (vide Exhibit L) was received and adopted.

The following resolutions were adopted: Whereas, This Convention is under especial obligations to various parties; therefore, Resolved, That a unanimous vote of thanks is hereby tendered to the members of Eta Alumni for the hearty reception and hospitality they have extended to this Convention; to the orator and poet, Brothers Parvin and Crook, for the rich intel­ lectual feast which they gave us, and that a copy of the oration and poem is respectfully requested for publication with the proceedings of this Convention; to the General Secretary, Bro­ ther Grant, and the General Treasurer, Brother R. H. Young, for their efficiency in office; to the Odd Fellows, for their kind­ ness in granting us the use of their hall; to Brothers W. C. Ran­ som, Luke Wood, and the other officers of the Convention, for the efficient manner in which they have discharged the duties of their respective offices; and finally, to the proprietors of the St. George Hotel, for the kindness and favors shown the members of the Convention.

It was moved and adopted that the printing and incidental expenses incurred by Eta Alumni be paid by the Treasurer of the Fraternity.

No further business being before the Convention, in re­ sponse to enthusiastic calls, speeches were made by Brothers DeBruler, R. D. Richardson, James A. Young, and A. N. Grant.

Brother Cheney, General Secretary elect, announced the appointment of the following Chief Assistants:

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

First District— J. C. Hobson, Williamsburg, Va. Second District— John I. Covington, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Third District— E. R. Hiett, Greencastle, Ind. Fourth District— John J. Shields, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Fifth District— L. D. L. Tosh, Lawrence, Kan. Adjourned till 2 P. M. Friday, 2 P. M. Convention called to order by President Ransom, and minutes of previous meeting read and approved.

General Treasurer, R. Harvey Young, made the report {vide Exhibit M ), which was referred to Committee on Finance.

The Report of Jno. I. Covington, as editor of B e t a T h e t a Pi, was presented and accepted. {Vide Exhibit N.) The proprietor of the St. George Hotel was introduced and heartily thanked for the courtesies shown the Convention.

A t 3130 P. M., the Thirty-sixth Annual Convention was declared adjourned.

W. C. R a n s o m , President.

G e o . C. R a n k i n , Secretary.

F r e d . T e r r e l l , Asst. Sec.

266

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

EXHIBITS E X H IB IT A. R e p o r t o f C o m m it t e e o n C r e d e n t i a l s .

To the Hon. Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials submit the following Report: Delegates present: Gamma Nu, R. H. Young; Delta, C. R. Hammond; Epsilon, J. H. Skinner; Theta, G. M. Halm; Iota, S. W. Black; Kappa, A. B. Richardson; Lambda, J. J. Shields and A. N. Grant; Omicron, Harry C. Warren; Pi, John B. Morrison; Tau, C. H. McCarer; Alpha Alpha, George C, Rankin; Alpha Gamma, B. 0 . Cowan; Alpha Delta, J. R. Dobyns; Alpha Nu, L. D. L. Tosh and W. C. Ransom; Alpha Rho, C. J. Goodenow; Alpha Alumni, Doc. H. Cheney; Gamma Alumni, E. H. Terrell; Delta Alumni, Eugene Warren; Epsilon Alumni, R. Harvey Young; Eta Alumni, Luke Wood.

A. N. G r a n t , G e o . C . R a n k in , F red. T errell,

Committee.

E X H IB IT B To the Convention of the Beta Theta Pi:

Your Committee appointed to report upon the Order of Business during the session of this Convention respectfully sub­ mit the following: I. The appointment of the following Standing Com­ mittees : 1. Committee on Chapters, 3 members.

2. Committee on Finance, 3 members.

3. Committee on Constitution and By-Laws, 3 mem­ bers.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

II.

267

4. Committee on Necrology, 3 members.

5. Committee on Quinquennial Catalogue, 5 members.

6. Committee on Next Place of Meeting, 3 members.

For Daily Order of Business, the following: 1. Prayer.

2. Reading and Approval of Minutes.

3. Reports and communications from the Presiding Chapter.

4. Reports from General Officers in following order: Secretary, Treasurer, and Book Agent.

5. Reading and Reference of Petitions and Com­ munications.

6. Reports from Chapters.

7. Reports from Standing Committees.

8. Reports from Special Committees.

9. Miscellaneous Business.

Your Committee also recommend that the election of officers for the ensuing year be made the special order for Friday, at 10 o’clock A. M. Cushing’s Manual to be the authority of parliamentary usage for the government of the Convention.

A t the request of Eta Alumni chapter, the Committee announce the following as special for to-morrow evening, the 26th inst., at Odd Fellows’ Hall: 1. Oration by Prof. Theophilus Parvin, of Indianapolis.

2. Poem by Rev. and Brother Isaac Crook, of Jacksonville,

111.

3. Banquet at St.* George Hotel, after conclusion of literary exercises at hall.

W . C . R an so m .

W.

B.

L. O.

Joh nston.

C

ow an.

268

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

E X H IB IT C. R e p o r t o f t h e P r e s id i n g C h a p t e r .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Being called to the position of Presiding Chapter in Decem­ ber, 1873, Alpha Alpha has, for an unusual length of time, exe­ cuted the duties devolving upon her.

During the past twenty months, since the last Convention, the history of the Fraternity has been one of gratifying pros­ perity. It has not, it is true, largely swelled the number of its chapters, but in those already established the records of con­ spicuous advancement and brilliant achievements have been general, and affairs of discouragement rare.

Indeed, the condition of the Fraternity may be stated to be extraordinarily flattering.

During our administration but one new chapter, Alpha Sigma, Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., has been welcomed to our honored ranks, but she already justly claims a prominent place among her sisters.

The organization of the chapter at Lafayette College, Pa., was never completed, but we anticipate its establishment the coming year.

The Franklin, Ind., proposition was almost unanimously rejected on account of the presentment of evidence pronouncing the unworthiness of the institution.

The revival of the chapter at Ann Arbor, in the University of Michigan, has been broached at several conventions, and we believe we are about to be permitted to celebrate the event at last. Arrangements are perfecting which assure the immediate re-establishment of Lambda.

The new lease of life given Knox College by the inauguration of Hon. Newton Bateman, president, calls the attention of the Fraternity to the re-establishment of Xi. We have no doubt this chapter can be brought into prosperity again with little effort before our next annual assembly.

Also, some means should be adopted for the early resuscita­ tion of Alpha Beta at Iowa State University, and Alpha Zeta at Chicago University.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

269

The value of regular correspondence between the chapters is inestimable, uniting them more closely and devotedly, and serv­ ing to fan the flames of the true Grecian patriotism. Each chapter should be impressed with the importance of frequent epistolary communication with her sisters.

It is hoped the correspondence will be more lively the coming year than heretofore.

General and profound regret is expressed on account of the non-appearance of our paper, the B e t a T h e t a P i . The editor will doubtless satisfactorily explain the causes prompting its dis­ continuance. The necessity of an enterprising and creditable Fraternity paper is unquestioned, and the Convention should not fail to provide for the continuance and perpetuation of so im­ portant a promoter of the Society’s interests. Efficient brothers can be readily secured for its management.

The affairs of the General Secretaryship have been most wisely and promptly administered by Brother A. N. Grant, and we may pardonably suggest another term, or advocate “ C tsa r­ ism ” in his case. To his energy is largely due the present pros­ perity of the Order.

Brother R. Harvey Young, General Treasurer, has ably discharged his duties and sustained his reputation as a financier.

As the Quinquennial Catalogue is about to be issued, each chapter should promptly report a list of its members, with pro­ fessions and addresses, to the committee, and contribute every­ thing possible to a correct and creditable publication.

The Presiding Chapter suggests that a committee on the revision and republication of the Song-Book be appointed, to report at as early a day as practicable.

It is also suggested that the Constitution be so amended that no member, after he ceases to be an active member, can withdraw or be dismissed at all, or except through the Annual Convention.

Respectfully submitted, W. A. S p a l d i n g , Pres. Alpha Alpha Chapter.

J. A. R o b i s o n , Rec. Alpha Alpha Chapter.

G e o . C. R a n k i n , Cor. Sec. Alpha Alpha Chapter.

270

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

E X H IB IT D. R

eport of

G

eneral

Secretary.

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your General Secretary for the years 1874—75 would most respectfully submit the following report: January, 1874. With the assistance of Ex-General Secretary Charles D. Walker, of Virginia, and in accordance with instruc­ tions of Thirty-fourth Annual Convention (vide pp. 9 and 27, minutes of said convention), “ framed such laws as were con­ sidered necessary for the well-working of the General Secretary’s Department,” which laws, by consent of Presiding Chapter, have been used tentatively till this time, and are now presented to the Convention to be ratified as a part of the General Code, or to be rejected.

CODE. T

it l e

I.

E

x e c u t iv e

O f f ic e r s .

Par. 1. The F ratern ity shall have a General Secretary, who shall be its executive officer, and shall be responsible to the Presiding Chapter.

Par. 2. The General Secretary shall have five Chief Assist­ ants, each one having a D istrict under his supervision, and all responsible to th e General Secretary.

T

it l e

II.

P r o p o s it io n s —How S u b m i t t e d .

Par. 1. Applications for charter m ust be made to the Chief A ssistant in whose district the proposed chapter is to be located.

Par. 2. Upon receipt of application, the Chief Assistant will p u t himself in communication with the authorities of the college w here the proposed chapter is to be located; with neighboring Beta chapters, and with all others who m ay furnish information.

H aving thoroughly investigated the m atter, he will forward to applicants th e printed form of application, requiring them to fill it out and return to him. Indorsing this application approved or disapproved, as he m ay deem proper, he will forward it to the

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

271

Gmeral Secretary, accompanied by a full statement of facts learned in regard to proposition, which shall be certified.

Par. j . No Chief Assistant shall forward an application cortaining less than six names.

Par. 4. The General Secretary, upon receipt of application fron a Chief Assistant, shall indorse it approved or disapproved, mate any additions he may see fit to statement, and forward both to Presiding Chapter. A t the same time, he shall forward to the editor of the Fraternity paper duplicate statement for publication.

Par. 5. The Presiding Chapter having indorsed the appli­ cation approved or disapproved, shall return it to the General Secretary. He will then make out as many copies of the applica­ tion as there are chapters, and submit to them for vote, having allowed sufficient time for statement in newspaper to reach all chapters.

Par. 6. The General Secretary, in submitting applications, shall accompany them by circular, signed by the officers of the Presiding Chapter and by himself. And after the name of the President of Presiding Chapter and of the General Secretary, in each circular shall be written the word approved or disapproved, indicating the view held by the Presiding Chapter and General Secretary as to merits of proposition.

Par. 7. The original application shall be forwarded to the Historiographer for preservation.

T

it l e

III.

P r o p o s it io n s —

How

V oted

U pon.

Par. 1. Chapters, upon receiving propositions, shall vote upon them at once, and send vote to General Secretary.

Par. 2. If the General Secretary does not receive the vote of a chapter in 15 days after issue, he will write to know the reason of neglect. If he receives no reply in 15 days, he will record the vote of the chapter in favor of the proposition.

Par. 3. A three-fourths affirmative vote of the living chap­ ters will carry a proposition.

T

it l e

IV .

F o r m a t io n

of

C

hapters.

Par. 1. When the chapters shall have voted (i. e., after 30 days from issue), the General Secretary will send a certified state­

272

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

ment of vote to the Presiding Chapter. If the vote should ha^e been favorable he will accompany the statement with a chafer filled out with names of charter-members of new chapter.

Par. 2. The Presiding Chapter, having affixed the signa­ tures of its officers to this charter, will return it to the Gereral Secretary, with instructions to issue.

Par. 3. The General Secretary, having affixed his signature to the charter, will make out certified copies of the Constitution, the Ritual, etc., etc., and forward them with the charter tcj the institutors of the new chapter.

Par. 4. Chapters shall be instituted only by Betas, and in accordance with a form prescribed by General Secretary. Charters or Constitutions shall never be sent to any uninitiate, even though he be a pledged member.

T i t l e V.

M is c e l l a n e o u s .

Par. 1. Each Chief Assistant shall submit to the General Secretary a report of the condition of his District, and of the work performed by himself during his term, six weeks before the Convention.

Par. 2. The General Secretary may perform the duties of Chief Assistant in the District in which he resides.

Par. j . The General Secretary shall make a full report of the work of his department to the Convention.

Par. 4. The General Secretary shall be President pro tem. of the Annual Convention, in the absence of the President of the Presiding Chapter.

Par. 5. Corresponding Secretaries of chapters shall be responsible to the Chief Assistant of their District as to informa­ tion concerning condition of their chapters.

January, 1875. In accordance with the laws which have been in tentative operation, the following Chief Assistants have been appointed: First District. Charles D. Walker, with headquarters at Alexandria, Virginia. Said district is composed of West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

Second District. John I. Covington, headquarters at Cin­ cinnati. District composed of Ohio, Eastern and Middle States.

Third District. E. R. Hiett, Chief Assistant, headquarters at

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

273

Greencastle, Ind. District composed of Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.

Fourth District. 0 . R. Brouse, Chief Assistant; head足 quarters at Chicago, 111. Said District composed of Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan and Canada.

Fifth District. Major Willis C. Ransom, Chief Assistant; headquarters at Lawrence, Kansas. Said District composed of all states west of the Mississippi river.

February, 1875. Visited Ann Arbor and completed the arrangements for reorganization of Lambda chapter.

February. Had printed blank card for vote of chapter on application for charter. Also, submitted proposition to found a chapter at Lafayette College, Easton, Pa., which was carried.

March. Forwarded charter, constitution, ritual, legend of frontispiece, etc., to Brother R. B. Rice, of Alpha Eta, who was authorized to institute said chapter; but subsequently, for very good and sufficient reasons, and by desire of Presiding Chapter, ordered Brother Rice to withhold charter, etc., and defer institut足 ing until so ordered.

March. Submitted proposition to found a chapter at Franklin, Indiana, which was defeated, only one chapter record足 ing its vote in favor of it.

April. Submitted proposition to found a chapter at Dick足 inson College, at Carlisle, Pa., which was carried.

May. Issued charter and accompanying papers to chapter at Dickinson College entitled Alpha Sigma, composed of ten charter members. Brother Tom Ziegler of Alpha Rho, and a resident of Philadelphia, was deputized to institute said chapter, which service he performed to the satisfaction of all concerned.

Respectfully submitted, A. N. G r a n t , General Secretary Beta Theta Pi, 1874-75 E X H IB IT E. C o m m it t e e o n C o n s t i t u t i o n a n d B y - L a w s .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Constitution and By-Laws beg leave to report as follows:

274

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

1. That this Convention ratify and affirm the Constitution adopted at the Convention which convened at the City of Cin­ cinnati, State of Ohio, on the 29th of December, 1873, and that the same be and hereby is declared of full force and effect from and after this date.

2. That the Convention hereby adopts and enacts the Code of Regulations this day reported to the Convention by the General Secretary, and that it be hereafter observed for the government of his department.

3. That no amendments be made to the Constitution by this Convention.

A. N. G r a n t , Chairman.

L. D. L. T o s h .

S. W. B l a c k .

E X H IB IT F. R

eport

of

th e

C

o m m it t e e

on

C atalogue.

To the National Convention of Beta Theta Pi: As Secretary of Committee on New Catalogues, I have the honor to submit the following report: Legendary Cut: The plate of the cut used in our old Cata­ logues was damaged in the Chicago fire, but with an expense of about fifty ($50) dollars can be made good again.

Cut of Founders: The Cut of the Founders, ordered by last Convention, can be obtained for three hundred dollars, or there­ abouts.

We have in our possession the following pictures: John Reily Knox, S. T. Marshall, D. Linton, C. H. Hardin, John H. Duncan and M. C. Ryan.

Those of J. G. Smith (deceased) and Thomas B. Gordon we have been unable to obtain.

Revised Lists Received: The following chapters have sent in their revised lists: Delta, Zeta, Iota, Kappa, Omicron, Rho, Tau, Psi, Omega Prime, Alpha Alpha, Alpha Gamma, Alpha Delta, Alpha Epsilon, Alpha Eta, Alpha Theta, Alpha Lambda, Alpha Kappa, Alpha Xi, Alpha Pi, Alpha Rho, Alpha Sigma.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

275

The list from Rho is incomplete and unsatisfactory.

Alpha Alumni and Gamma Alumni list also received; also Epsilon Alumni.

Chapter I ists not Received: Lists of members of the following chapters are not as yet received: (Gamma), Epsilon, Theta, Mu, Nu, Pi, Chi, Beta Alumni, Delta Alumni, Zeta Alumni, and Eta Alumni.

Chapters not in Existence {as is believed): The following chapters are not in existence: Alpha, Beta Prime, Beta Second, Epsilon Prime, Zeta Prime, Theta Prime, Iota Prime, Lambda Prime, Xi, Sigma Prime, Upsilon Prime, Phi, Omega Prime, Alpha Beta, and Alpha Zeta.

Armorial Designs: The following have sent description of Armorial Design for chapter use, and in accordance with action of the last Convention: Psi, Gamma Nu, Alpha Delta, Alpha Iota, Alpha Lambda, and Alpha Pi. Alpha Nu has had one in use for some time.

Cost: The cost of getting cuts for chapters will probably not exceed fifteen ($15) dollars per each cut: Cost of 300 Catalogues will b e .......................... $459.49 Cost of each additional 100...............................

20.30 The Committee respectfully recommend that the titles of all members, whether military, civil or otherwise, be inserted with the name of the member, and that the list of colleges, as also the places of chapters, be omitted.

Respectfully submitted, Doc. H. C h e n e y , Sec. of Committee.

E X H IB IT G. R

eport of

C o m m it t e e

in t h e

C ase

of

N. M.

W

olf

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The undersigned committee appointed by you to investigate the matter of the expulsion of N. M. Wolf by Alpha Lambda chapter would respectfully report as follows: 1. We have, but one side of the case presented to us.

276

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

2. We only know of the membership of said Wolf by the reports and petition of Brothers R. B. Rice, J. C. Sample, W. H. Pritchard, T. W. Philips, J. H. James, S. H. Collins and W. B. K eys of Alpha Eta chapter, but from their statements we believe that N .M . Wolf was a member of Alpha Eta chapter.

3. There is no delegate from Alpha Lambda in attendance upon this Convention, and therefore we will be unable to learn both sides of the controversy. It is, therefore, our opinion— 1.

That if N. M. Wolf was initiated by Alpha Eta chapter, Alpha Lambda had no jurisdiction in the case.

2d. That if the statements in the petition of R. B. Rice and others be true, the trial and expulsion was unconstitutional and is null and void.

Respectfully submitted, L uke W John

B.

ood,

B.

O. C

M

o r r is o n .

ow an.

E X H IB IT H. R

eport

of

C

o m m it t e e

on

C o r r e s p o n d in g

S e c r e t a r ie s

Gamma Nu— John L. Dickey, Washington, Pa. Delta, Fred. Terrell, Greencastle, Ind. Epsilon— E. H. Owings, Danville, K y.

Zeta— D. Q. Eggleston, Hampden-Sidney, Va. Theta— George M. Halm, Delaware, Ohio.

Iota— H. R. Smith, Hanover, Ind. Kappa— John S. McKown, Athens, Ohio.

Lambda— J. J. Shields, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Omicron— Pi— Charles A. Cole, Bloomington, Ind. Rho— G. A. Robinson, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Va. Tau— R. L. Anderson, Crawfordsville, Ind. Chi— A. R. Sprague, Beloit, Wis. Psi— Frank McMillin, Bethany, West Va. Alpha Alpha— John A. Robison, Monmouth, Illinois.

Alpha Gamma— E. K. Bell, Springfield, Ohio.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

277

Alpha Alpha Alpha Alpha Alpha

Delta— J. R. Dobyns, Fulton, Mo. Epsilon— A. K. Lind, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.

Eta— J. H. Brierly, Granville, Ohio.

Theta— Francis Cropper, Lexington, Va. Iota— Paul F. Coste, Washington University, St. Louis, Mo. Alpha Kappa— Alpha Lambda— E. P. Dean, Wooster, Ohio.

Alpha Mu— T. J. Clark, Marion, Alabama.

Alpha Nu— James A. Wickersham, Lawrence, Kansas.

Alpha X i— Cyrus Thompson, Ashland, Va. Alpha Omicron— James B. Young, Tehuacana, Texas.

Alpha Pi— H. R. Cook, Madison, Wis. Alpha Rho— Frank H. Scott, Evanston, Ills.

Alpha Sigma— S. Homer Dosh, Box 365, Carlisle, Pa. Alpha Alumni— O. R. Brouse, 83 Clark Street, Chicago.

Gamma Alumni— John G. Blake, 308 N. Tenn. Street, Indianapolis, Ind. Epsilon Alumni— John I. Covington, Cincinnati, Ohio.

E ta Alumni— Charles H. McCarer, Evansville, Indiana.

Respectfully submitted, A. N. G r a n t , G

eo.

C . R a n k in ,

Committee.

E X H IB IT I. R

epo rt of th e

C o m m it t e e

on

C h apters

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Chapters would respectfully submit the following report: Gamma Nu, at W. & J. College, Washington, Pa., closed the college year with ten members: two seniors, two juniors, three sophomores, three freshmen. Rivals, Phi Kappa Sigma, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Kappa, Alpha Iota. Will make a good record the coming year.

Delta, at Asbury University, Greencastle, Indiana, our pride, numbers twenty members— three seniors, seven junior, six

278

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

sophomores, and four freshmen, standing pre-eminent in the University.

Epsilon, at Centre College, Danville, Kentucky, had six members the past year. Rivals— Phi Delta Theta, Alpha Kappa Phi, and Delta Kappa. With five resident members to encourage lier, her march will be still onward.

Zeta, at Hampden-Sidney College, Hampden-Sidney, Vir­ ginia, is in a healthy condition.

Theta, at Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, announces a membership of twenty-four, “ and still a-booming.M She has seven seniors, seven juniors, six sophomores, and four freshmen.

During the year eight Delta Tau Deltas, one Phi Gamma Delta, and one Phi Kappa Psi, seeing the error of their ways, and being deemed worthy, were made members of this chapter. The rivals are, Chi Phi, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, and Sigma Chi; two others, Phi Delta Theta and Delta Tau Delta, having yielded up the ghost.

Iota, at Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana, closed the year with thirteen true Greeks— three seniors, two juniors, two sophomores, three freshmen, and three sub-freshmen. Prospects favorable. Rivals— Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma Chi, Delta Tau Delta.

Kappa, at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, had eight mem­ bers last year. Will open next year with a circle of seven active and ten alumni members. Rivals, Phi Delta Theta and Delta Tau Delta.

Lambda, at Michigan University, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Outlook, very favorable.

Xi, at Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois; will be heard from soon, as the report of the Presiding Chapter indicates.

Omicron, at University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Vir­ ginia, is in excellent condition.

Pi, at Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, is as aspiring as ever, with fifteen worthy men— five seniors, three juniors, three sophomores, three freshmen, and one preparatory.

Rivals (?)— Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Gamma Delta. Pi is doing a good work.

Rho, at Washington and Lee College, Lexington, Virginia, is full of Greek fire.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

279

Tau, at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Indiana, embraces some of the best men in college, and, indirectly, some of the fairest ladies of the city. Begins the ensuing year with eight active members, all true and loyal Greeks.

Chi, at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin, has ten members.

The college has adopted a law against all fraternities, but our chapter possesses the ability to flourish notwithstanding outside opposition.

Psi, at Bethany College, Bethany, West Virginia, is as strong and happy as ever.

Alpha Alpha, at Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois, had ten men last year, and will commence next year with five noble Greeks, besides a number of resident alumni. The College Board has passed a law against fraternities, which may endanger the life of Alpha Alpha. Rivals— Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Psi, and Sigma Chi. Alpha Gamma, at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, is in a flourishing condition. She enters the coming year with twelve true Greeks, and will in the future, as she has in the past, wield an extensive influence in the college. The only rival is the Phi Kappa Psi. Alpha Delta, at Westmingster College, Fulton, Missouri, since the last Convention, has initiated six new men, and grad­ uated nine loyal souls. The chapter is flourishing, and will commence next year with four earnest members.

Alpha Epsilon, at Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, has three seniors, three juniors, two sophomores, and three freshmen. Will make a brilliant history the coming year. The only rival is Phi Delta Theta, the Delta Tau Delta having recently given up their charter.

Alpha Eta, at Denison University, Granville, Ohio, sends no report.

Alpha Theta, at Virginia M ilitary Institute, Lexington, Virginia, has sixteen active members, and we may expect great things of her.

Alpha Iota, at Washington University, St. Louis, is flourish­ ing, with a flattering membership.

Alpha Kappa, at Richmond College, Richmond, Virginia, has not reported.

280

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

Alpha Lambda, at Wooster University, Wooster, Ohio, has fifteen members strong in Greek zeal.

Alpha Mu, Howard College, Marion, Alabama, is alive to the interests of the order.

Alpha Nu, at Kansas University, Lawrence, Kansas, glories in twelve men displaying an immense amount of Greek muscle.

With the “ M ajor” to guide them, they will march to the highest honors. No rivals.

Alpha Xi, at Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, Virginia, is in fine condition.

Alpha Omicron, at Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, acquits herself well as representative of Betaism in the “ Lone Star.”

Alpha Pi, at University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, had sixteen members in 1874, seventeen in 1875, and opens ’75-76, with thirteen zealous boys. We are justified in being proud of Alpha P i’s noble band.

Alpha Rho, at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, graduated four men in 1875, winning most of the laurels. She begins next year with two seniors, four juniors, three sophomores, and three freshmen, all lovely Greeks. Prospects most encourag­ ing. Rivals— Sigma Chi and Phi Kappa Sigma.

Alpha Sigma, at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, graduated eight men in 1875, taking two of the honors. She commences the ensuing year with eleven members, representing the honors in every class. Although she is “ Our B ab y” chapter, her prospect is not less than that of her elders.

Alpha Alumni, at Chicago, numbers forty-five members. mM Gamma Alumni, at Indianapolis, has a large membership.

Delta Alumni, at Louisville, has but few members.

Epsilon Alumni, at Cincinnati, is in a prosperous condition, receiving accessions to her ranks annually.

E ta Alumni, at Evansville, has fourteen active members* G eo.

C.

R a n k in ,

J o seph H. S k in n e r , G e o . H. H alm ,

Committee.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

281

E X H IB IT K. Your Committee on Newspaper would respectfully submit the following report: 1st. That the size and typographical character remain the same as its last issues.

2nd. That the paper be conducted as before, for circulation among members of the Fraternity only.

3rd. That but ten numbers shall be issued annually, be­ ginning with the month of November, 1875, omitting the months of July and August.

4th. That an annual tax of $1.50 be assessed upon each active member, both of Regular and Alumni chapters, in addition to their regular dues, and that in return a copy of the Beta Theta Pi newspaper be sent to each member of such chapters.

Your committee have been led to pursue this course from the fact that it has been customary among some of the chapters to take but two or three copies of the paper and then loan them out one to another, which was a very good thing for “ boys” but death to the paper.

5th. That the said tax be payable October 1, 1875, and that it be made the special duty of each Treasurer of the various chapters to attend to this matter on or before the time specified, sending cash with the subscription list, to the General Treasurer of the fraternity.

6th. That the minutes of this Convention be published in the newspaper instead of the usual pamphlet form.

7th. That we would most earnestly recommend that our hearty thanks be returned to Brothers Charles D. Walker and John I. Covington, late editors of B e t a T h e t a P i, for their earnest endeavors to place our paper upon a firm and substantial basis.

R. H arvey Y G eo.

A. N.

C.

R a n k in ,

G ra n t,

J. R . D

W. L.

oung,

o byn s,

J o h n s to n ,

Committee.

282

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

E X H IB IT M Mr. President and Brothers of Beta Theta Pi: We, the undersigned, Committee on Finance, appointed by your honorable presiding officer, beg leave to report that they have examined the accounts of the General Treasurer, and find them in all particulars correct. We heartily commend Brother Young’s efficiency to the continued confidence of the Fraternity.

This has been the only business brought before the com­ mittee.

Respectfully submitted, A. B. C.

J. G o o d e n o w .

W. L.

R

eport of

G

eneral

T

R ic h a r d s o n .

J o h n s to n .

reasurer

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your General Treasurer would respectfully submit the following suggestions relative to his department: First.— That all assessments and dues be forwarded to him, at least thirty days before the assembling of the Annual Con­ vention.

Second.— That he be advised of the treasurer’s address of each chapter, in order that the delay occasioned by the lack of it may be avoided.

Third.— That in case any chapter should find a discrepancy in its accounts, they shall immediately report it to the General Treasurer.

Respectfully submitted, R. H arvey Y

oung,

General Treasurer.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

283

R eport o f th e G e n e ra l T rea su re r fo r th e Y e a r

1873-74

in c o m e

Balance received from Jno. I. Covington, Treasurer.......................................................... $178.39 Gamma N u ...........................................................

11.00 D elta......................................................................

18.00 4.00 Epsilon..................................................................

Io ta........................................................................

11.00 K appa....................................................................

6.00 Omicron................................................................

11.00 P i............................................................................

12.00 9 •00 C h i.........................................................................

P si..........................................................................

8.00 Alpha Alpha.........................................................

8.00 Alpha Gamma......................................................

12.00 Alpha E ta ........................................... ..................

1.00 Alpha T h eta.........................................................

13.00 Alpha K appa. ......................................................

8.00 Alpha Lambda.....................................................

16.00 Alpha N u ..............................................................

7.00 Alpha X i ...............................................................

10.00 Alpha Omicron.....................................................

9.00 $3 5 2 - 3 9

Balance to year 1874-7 5 ..............................

e x p e n d it u r e s

Beta Theta Pi Newspaper: Paid Chas. D. Walker, editor, Bal. due on same for ’72-73..........$145.00 Paid C. D. Walker, editor, April n t h .............................................

20.00 Paid C. D. Walker, editor, April 25th................. ............................ 31.25

2.91— $3 55.30

284

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875 EXPENDITURES— CONTINUED

P aid C . D . W alker, editor, June I o t h ............................................... $SS-oo— $251.25 General S ecre tary: P aid A . N . G ran t for stationery, printing, postage, e t c ....................................................

22.05

General Treasurer: P aid R . N . Carter for minutes of the 34th Convention, 400 copies................................

82.00

1 3 5 5 - 30 — $ 3 5 5 - 3 0 R e p o r t o f t h e G e n e r a l T r e a s u r e r f o r 1874-75 INCOME G am m a N u ............................................................ $

7.00

D e lt a ........................................................................

16.00

E p silo n ....................................................................

3-00

I o t a ..........................................................................

13.00

K a p p a ......................................................................

6.00

O m icron ..................................................................

15.00

P i ........................................................................

14.00

T a u ..........................................................................

13.00

P s i............................................................ ................

6.00

A lp h a A lp h a ..........................................................

9.00

A lp h a G a m m a .......................................................

14.00

A lp h a D e lta . ..........................................................

7.00

A lp h a E p silo n ........................................................

8.00

A lp h a E t a ...............................................................

A lp h a L a m b d a .......................................................

3 •° ° 10.00

A lp h a M u ...............................................................

11 •00

A lp h a N u ................................................................

8.00

A lp h a X i .................................................................

12.00

A lp h a O m icron ......................................................

9.00

A lp h a P i ..................................................................

14.00

A lp h a R h o ..............................................................

12.00

A lp h a S ig m a ...........................................................

14.00

A lp h a A lu m n i........................................................

25.00

$ 2 4 9 . 00— $ 249.00

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

28s

EXPENDITURES

Beta Theta Pi Newspaper: Paid Jno. I. Covington on ac­ count, M ay 29th....................... $ 6.00 Paid Jno. I. Covington on ac­ 9.00 count, July 5th...........................

Paid Jno. I. Covington on ac­ count, August 27th....................

16.05— $ 31.05 General Secretary: Paid A. N. Grant for printing, Stationery, postage, telegraphing, e tc ...........................

36.65

Convention Expense Account: Rent of Odd Fellows H all............. $10.00 Gas Bill and Janitor....................... 15.00 Chairs in H all..................................

2.00 Printing Circulars............................ 4 50 Printing Invitations........................ 20.00 Expenses of Orator......................... 25.00 Expenses of P o et............................. 25.00— $101.50 Catalogue Account: Paid O. R. Brouse on account......................

8.50 Balance from 1873 and ’74.............................

2.91 $180.61 Balance on hand.......................................... 68.39 $249.00— $249.00

E X H IB IT N. To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi, in session at Evansville, Ind., August 25, 26, and 27, 1875.

G e n tle m e n :— I

would respectfully submit the following report of receipts and disbursements on account of the B e t a T h e t a P i newspaper for the past year:

286

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

Total amount received........................................................... $51.00 Less amount paid b a c k ........................ ................................ x e. 00 Net receipts..................................................................$36.00 Total amount of expenditures, being for printing circulars, postage, e tc........................................................................... 3 1 05 Cash remaining on hand.................... ............................. $4-95 The thirty-six dollars above referred to will have to be paid back to parties sending the same unless the paper is continued this year, in which event the money can be applied on the subscription for the coming year.

Not a single number of the paper was issued during the past year, as I deemed it injudicious to impose expense upon the Fra­ ternity with the little encouragement I had met with.

I think it a great mistake that the members of the Fraternity did not respond more liberally to my appeals, and I trust that the past year has opened their minds to receive and work for the interests of the paper. Every man in the Fraternity should subscribe and pay in advance for the B e t a T h e t a P i. It is unjust to impose upon the editor all the work of soliciting sub­ scriptions, and I would suggest that your Convention provide for a division of this labor for the coming year.

I am extremely solicitous for the continuance of the paper, and trust that your Honorable Body may devise some plan that shall place the paper upon a sound financial basis.

Sincerely regretting my inability to be present at your sessions, I am, Yours respectfully, J o h n I. C o v i n g t o n , Editor Beta Theta Pi. E X H IB IT O. E v a n s v ille ,

In d .,

August 27th, 1875.

Circular: The 36th Annual Convention of the Beta Theta P i Society,— to the chapters of the glorious old Fraternity sends greeting:

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

287

after a session of three days, during which much business of interest has been transacted, and entire harmony and unity of action have prevailed, the session is about to close, and the Convention issues this circular letter that you may be advised at the earliest possible moment of the principal legisla­ tion had at this session, and ask your hearty co-operation in the objects sought to be promoted thereby.

B ro th e rs,

I. The Convention, recognizing the fact that the prosperity and rapid growth of the Association have rendered it quite impossible to secure the needed inter-communication between the chapters by the usual methods, have determined to permanently reestablish the B e t a T h e t a P i paper as the official organ of the Fraternity, and to provide for its support in such way as will make it of great service and interest to every Greek.

To provide the necessary means for carrying out this purpose, the Convention order an assessment upon the chapters of the sum of $1.50 for each active member, to be sent to R. Harvey Young, General Treasurer, Cincinnati, on or before the first day of October next.

The paper will contain all the official proceedings of this Convention, the Oration and Poem, and through the year much correspondence and original matter contributed from the pens of our Corresponding Secretaries and the many able brothers and Alumni of our Association.

It will be under the management of O. R. Brouse and Doc. H. Cheney, and published at Chicago, and a copy for each member of your chapter will be sent you, post paid, direct from the office of publication.

Your prompt attention and early remittance of the amount due from your chapter is earnestly demanded.

II. The Convention has authorized the Committee on Cata­ logues to complete its publication upon the plan reported by them to the Convention.

The Catalogue will be an elegant volume, embellished with

288

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1875

the portraits of the founders, engraved on steel in the best style of the art, and containing the names, occupations, and (if living) the present residences of over 3,000 Greeks.

M any of the chapters have not yet returned their lists of members, and but a few of their designs for Coats of Arms, to the Secretary of the Committee.

It is imperative that you do this without delay, as the cost of the work and the size of the edition cannot be determined until the chapters conform to requirement in this particular.

The Convention, therefore, orders that the chapters at once, on receipt of this circular, proceed to furnish the required infor­ mation to the Secretary of the Committee, Doc. H. Cheney, 83 Clark Street, Chicago, and in due time they will be advised of the cost of the Catalogue.

III. Important amendments to our Constitution have been adopted by this Convention, which it is believed will prove of material advantage to the Association in the administration of its affairs.

These will reach you through official channels, and the Con­ vention asks consideration of them at your hands.

Fraternally yours, W. C.

R a n so m ,

President of Convention.

G eo.

C.

R a n k in ,

Secretary.

As the Convention of 1873 was held the last week in December, no con­ vention was held in 1874.

The above circular, Exhibit O, giving to the chapters a succinct account of the convention proceeding was an innovation in fraternity administration.

The custom might be profitably revived so as to inform the chapters while they await the printed minutes.

^ttiitutes of tl)£ Convention of 1876 PR O CE ED IN G S OF T H E T H IR T Y -S E V E N T H A N N U A L N A T IO N A L CO N V EN TIO N OF B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R ­ N IT Y , held at PH ILA D E LPH IA , PA., JU L Y

sth ,

6th

AND

7 T H , 1876

M

e r c a n t il e

L ib r a r y H

all,

July 5, 1876.

The Convention was called to order at 2 P. M., by Brother Geo. C. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha. Brother Chas. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta, was chosen temporary chairman, and Brother F. C. McMillin, of Psi, temporary secretary.

Chairman appointed as Committee on Credentials, Brothers J. A. Oram, of Psi; C. R. Hammond, of Delta; and G. M. Halm, of Theta.

Brother J. L. Thistle, of Gamma Nu, was elected temporary sergeant-at-arms.

On motion, the following brothers were admitted as dele­ gates without credentials: Brothers Henry Shirk, of Alpha Sigma; C. R. Hammond, of Delta, and J. M. Goodspeed, of Kappa.

The Committee on Credentials made their report, which was adopted (vide Exhibit A): A Committee on Permanent Organization was appointed, consisting of Brothers Geo. C. Ran­ kin, of Alpha Alpha; C. A. Brady, of Rho, and R. J. Haynes, of Alpha Omicron. Also a Committee on Order of Exercises, con­ sisting of Brothers D. A. Garwood, of Lambda; W. E. Dennison, of Theta, and E. P. Dean, of Alpha Lambda.

The Committee on Permanent Organization reported as follows: President— Brother C. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta.

Vice-President— Brother J. M. Goodspeed, of Kappa.

P h il a d e l p h ia ,

289

290

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

Secretary— Brother F. C. McMillin, of Psi. Assistant Secretary— Brother H. R. Cook, of Alpha Pi. Chaplain— Rev. Brother E. Devine, of Alpha Sigma.

Sergeant-at-Arms— Brother H. Y . Black, of Alpha Omicron.

The report was adopted.

Committee on Order of Exercises reported the following Order: I.

Appointment of the following standing committees: 1. Committee on Chapters, three members.

2. Committee on Finance, three members.

3. Committee on Constitution and By-Laws, three members.

4. Committee on Necrology, three members.

5. Committee on Next Place of Meeting, three members.

II.

Daily Order of Business: 1. Prayer.

2. Reading and Approval of Minutes.

3. Reports and Communications from the Presiding Chapter.

4. Reports from General Officers in the following order: Secretary, Treasurer, and Song Book Agent.

5. Reading and Reference of Petitions and Communi­ cations.

6. Reports of Standing Committee.

7. Reports of Special Committees.

8. Miscellaneous Business.

It was moved and carried to consider the articles separately; after adopting the articles the report of the committee was adopted and committee discharged.

On motion, the meetings of the Convention were appointed from 12 M. to 5 P. M., and from 7 P. M. to 12 M. On motion, the election of Fraternity Officers was appointed for 2 P. M. on July 6th.

Moved and carried that Cushing’s Manual govern the pro­ ceedings of the Convention.

On motion, Brother W. H. Pritchard was admitted as a delegate from Alpha Eta.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

291

The following standing committees were then appointed: Committee on Chapters: Brothers J. C. Thomas, Iota; Henry Shirk, Alpha Sigma; and W. H. Pritchard, Alpha Eta. Committee on Finance: Brothers H. S. Boutell, Alpha Rho; J. W. M cCoy, Alpha Alpha; H. M. Acheson, Gamma Nu. Committee on Constitution and By-Law s: Brothers W. T. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; T. S. Brown, Gamma Nu; and H. S. Hitchcock, Xi. Committee on Necrology: Brothers W. B. Young, Psi; W. H. Pritchard, Alpha Eta; and P. Wilcox, Delta.

Committee on Next Place of Meeting: Brothers J. H. Anderson, Psi; J. T. Ziegler, Alpha Rho; J. A. Robison, Alpha Alpha.

On motion, a committee of five was appointed to make arrangements for a banquet to be held at the close of the Con­ vention.

The following were named by the Chair: Brothers G. M. Halm, Theta; J. A. Oram, Psi; H. R. Cook, Alpha Psi; Geo. C. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; and F. C. McMillin, Psi. On motion, the Convention adjourned to 12 M. on July 6th.

M e r c a n t ile L ib r a r y H a ll,

July 6th, 1 P.

M.

Convention was called to order by President Walker, and after prayer by the President, the minutes of previous meeting were adopted with some corrections.

Brother Brown, of Gamma Nu, presented a petition from his chapter asking for a change of name to Gamma.

On motion of Brother McMillin, it was referred to a special committee, consisting of Brothers J. E. Powell, of Alpha Delta; T. S. Brown, of Gamma Nu; and Henry Shirk, of Alpha Sigma.

Brother Thomson, Chairman of Committee on Chapters reported progress.

Brother Anderson, of Committee on Next Place of Meeting, reported in favor of holding it at Detroit, Michigan, on the third Wednesday of August, 1877 (vide Exhibit B ). Report was adopted and committee discharged.

Brother Powell, of the special committee on change of name of Gamma Nu chapter to Gamma, the original name, reported

2Q2

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

favorably to the change. Report was adopted and committee discharged (vide Exhibit C).

The special order of election of officers of Fraternity having arrived, Brother McMillin moved that this order of business be changed to 8:30 P. M. of to-day.

Brother Halm, of Committee on Banquet, reported progress.

Brother McMillin moved that the place of manufacturing the Fraternity badge be changed. Brother Haynes amended this motion by adding that a committee be appointed, with full power to transfer the patronage if necessary, of the Fraternity, to such firm as it may deem proper. This motion as amended was car­ ried, and Brothers Halm of Theta, Hammond of Delta, and Shirk of Alpha Sigma were appointed.

Brother Halm of Committee on Banquet, by general con­ sent, reported in favor of a banquet. The report was adopted.

Brother W. T. Rankin, of Committee on Constitution and By-Laws, reported in favor of amending the Constitution so that Annual Conventions of this Fraternity may be held. Report was adopted (vide Exhibit D ).

On motion, of Brother Haynes, the house adjourned until 8 P. M. M e r c a n t ile L ib r a r y H a ll,

July 6th, 8 P.

M .,

1876.

Convention was called to order and the minutes of the pre­ vious meeting were read and approved.

Brother Rankin moved the appointment of a committee of three on Corresponding Secretaries. Motion was carried, and Brothers E. M. Wambaugh of Theta, A. T. Brook of Alpha Alpha, and J. Elliot of Alpha Sigma, were appointed.

On motion of Brother Cook, a committee of one, consisting of Brother Hammond of Delta, was appointed to interview the delegates and ascertain the number of catalogues required by each chapter (vide Exhibit E).

The hour for election of Fraternity Officers having arrived, Brother W. T. Rankin nominated Lambda as presiding chapter.

The vote was taken by chapters, which resulted in Lambda's election. On motion of Brother Oram, the election was made unanimous.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

293

Brother Geo. C. Rankin was nominated as General Secre­ tary and was unanimously elected. Brother McMillin nominated G. M. Halm, of Theta, as General Treasurer, who was unani­ mously elected.

On motion of Brother Dennison, Brothers Gantz, of Psi, and Dickey, of Gamma, were elected Editors of the B e t a T h e t a P i for the ensuing year.

Brother Seaman was nominated and unanimously elected Song-Book Agent.

Brother Wambaugh, of Committee on Corresponding Secre­ taries, reported (vide Exhibit F ).

Moved that the General Secretary be instructed to inform the Corresponding Secretary of each chapter that catalogues are now ready for publication, and that they forward immediately the numbers wanted, accompanying each order with the money at the rate of one dollar per catalogue.

Moved to adjourn until 8 P. M., July 7th.

July 7th, 8 P. M ., 1876.

Convention was called to order by President Walker, and after prayer by the President, the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Brother Cook moved the appointment of a committee of three, to receive the reports of the General Fraternity Officers and Presiding Chapter for the past year, to act upon them, and insert them in the minutes of the Convention. Brothers G. C. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; J. A. Robison, Alpha Alpha; and A. T. Brook, Alpha Alpha, were appointed as such committee.

Brother Walker read a report of the Editors of the Frater­ nity Paper, which was adopted (vide Exhibit G).

Moved that the Convention return their sincere thanks to the Editorial corps of the B e t a T h e t a P i for the efficient dis­ charge of their duties.

Moved that the communication from Brother Brouse, regarding endowment, be referred to a committee to report at next Convention. Committee: Brothers O. R. Brouse, Delta; J. I. Covington, Alpha; and W. C. Ransom, Lambda.

Committee on Necrology reported, and report adopted (vide Exhibit H).

M

e r c a n t il e

L ib r a r y H

all,

294

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

On motion, the report on chapters was adopted (vide Ex­ hibit I).

The following Chief Assistant Secretaries were appointed by the General Secretary: First District— J. R. Lamar, Bethany, W. Va. Second District— W. E. Dennison, Delaware, O. Third District— E. R. Hiett, Greencastle, Ind. Fourth District— Howard Morris, Madison, Wis. Fifth District— L. D. L. Tosh, Lawrence, Kan. Brother Halm moved that the same instructions be given to the Editors as were last year (vide Report). Motion was carried.

Moved that Brother Oram be empowered to draw upon the General Treasurer for a sufficient sum to pay for hall rent, which was carried. Also moved that balance required to pay for the banquet be taken from the General Treasury.

On motion, a vote of thanks was returned to the Officers of Convention for the faithful discharge of their duties.

On motion, at 9:30 P. M., the Thirty-seventh Annual Con­ vention adjourned to the banquet hall.

Alpha Theta, President.

F r a n k C . M c M i l l i n , Psi, Secretary.

H. R. C o o k , Alpha Pi, Asst. Secretary.

C has.

D.

W a lk e r ,

E X H IB IT A. R

eport

of

C o m m it t e e

on

C r e d e n t ia l s

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials submit the following R eport: Delegates present: Gamma— T. S. Brown, Delta^—C. R. Hammond, Theta— W. E. Dennison, Iota— J. C. Thomson, Kappa— J. M. Goodspeed, Lambda— D. A. Garwood, X i— H. S. Hitchcock, Psi— J. A. Oram, Alpha Alpha— J. A. Robison, Alpha Delta— J. E. Powell, Alpha Eta— W. H. Pritchard, Alpha Omicron— R. J. Haynes, Alpha Lambda— E. P. Dean, Alpha Nu— Wm.1Osborn, Alpha Pi— H. R. Cook, Alpha Rho E. M. Kinman, Alpha Sigma— Henry Shirk.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

295

Visiting members: H. M. Acheson, Gamma; J. S. Thistle, Gamma; W. K. Russell, Gamma; E. A. Donnan, Gamma; C. F. Clark, Gamma; Paul Wilcox, Delta; Geo. M. Halm, Theta; E. M. Wambaugh, Theta; C. A. Brady, Rho. D. R. Bishop, Tau; F. C. McMillin, Psi; J. H. Nesslage, Psi; J. H. Anderson, Psi; W. B. Young, Psi; C. M. Coleman, Psi; Geo. C. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; H. N. Mateer, Alpha Alpha; J. N. McCoy, Alpha Alpha; W. T. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; D. C. Stewart, Alpha Alpha; W. E. Wilson, Alpha Alpha; A. T. Brooks, Alpha Alpha; R. B. Rice, Alpha Eta; N. M. Wolfe, Alpha Eta; Rev. Chas. D. Walker, Alpha Theta; Prof. M. F. Maury, Alpha Theta; Henry Fairfax, Alpha Theta; G. F. Car足 penter, Alpha Lambda; H. Y . Black, Alpha Omicron; C. C. Black, Alpha Omicron; P. H. Wood, Alpha Pi; E. T. Sweet, Alpha Pi; H. S. Boutell, Alpha Rho; J. L. Ziegler, Alpha Rho; E. Devine, Alpha Sigma; Jas. Elliot, Alpha Sigma; E. H. Har足 rison, Alpha Tau. J. A. O ram , G eo.

M.

C. R.

H a lin ,

H am m ond,

Committee.

E X H IB IT B. R eport

of

C

o m m it t e e o n

P lace

and

T

im e o f

H o l d in g N

ext

C o n v e n t io n

To the Honorable Beta Assembled:

Theta P i

Fraternity in

Convention

We, the committee appointed by your body to select a place for the holding of the next Convention, have decided upon Detroit, Michigan, as'the best place. Convention to Assemble on the third Wednesday in August, 1877, and to continue in session three days. In making this selection we have been act足 uated to a certain extent by the fact that the Convention was changed from Detroit to Philadelphia on account of the Cen足

296

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

tennial, and the large number of members expected there at that time.

Respectfully submitted, Jas.

H.

A n d erson ,

Psi,

J.

T.

Z ie g le r ,

Alpha Rho,

J.

A.

R o b is o n ,

Alpha Alpha, Committee.

E X H IB IT C. R

eport of th e

C

o m m it t e e o n

C h a n g in g

N u C h apter

to

th e

N am e

of

G am m a

G am m a

The chapter now known as Gamma Nu, having requested the change of its name to Gamma, the committee reports favor­ ably, for the following reasons: 1st. The name Gamma Nu is at present unconstitutional, a provision having been made to the effect that all chapters bear­ ing names other than those designated by a single Greek letter shall have the prefix “ Alpha,” and soon, until the alphabet is exhausted.

2nd. The chapter of Gamma was established in 1842, and since then has never lost its charter or individuality.

3rd. The chapter of Nu was established in 1855, lost its members and name in 1861-2, and was afterwards merged into the chapter of Gamma.

4th. With the exception of an interval of two years, the chapter now known as Gamma Nu was designated Gamma chapter.

5th. The present name is inconvenient, as some members have “ N u ” on their badges, while others have “ Gamma.”

Respectfully submitted, Ja m e s H en ry

T.

E.

P o w e ll,

S h ir k ,

S. B r o w n ,

Alpha Delta,

Alpha Sigma, Gamma Nu, Committee.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

297

E X H IB IT D. R

eport

of

th e

C

o m m it t e e

on

C

o n s t it u t io n

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Constitution andBy-Lawsbeg leave to report as follows: Believing that the amendment to the Constitution adopted at the last Convention stating that “ The Convention of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity shall be held biennially” will prove detrimental to the best interests of the Fraternity, offer the resolution to this Convention, that the aforesaid amendment be hereby repealed.

W. T. R a n k in , Alpha Alpha, T. S. B r o w n , Gamma, H . S. H i t c h c o c k , Xi, Committee.

E X H IB IT E. R e p o r t o f t h e C o m m itt e e o n N u m b e r o f C a t a l o g u e s

O r­

d ered B y D e le g a te s

Gamma chapter............................................................................. 30 Delta chapter.............................. ................................................... 75 Theta chapter................................................................................. 15 Io ta ch ap te r......................................................................................

40

Psi chapter......................................................................................

Alpha Alpha chapter.....................................................................

Alpha Lambda chapter.................................................................

Alpha Nu chapter..........................................................................

Alpha Omicron chapter................................................................

Alpha Pi chapter...........................................................................

Alpha Rho chapter........................................................................

Alpha Sigma chapter.......... ..........................................................

18 30 30 10 5 15 9 5

T o tal.............. ................................................................. 282 C . R . Ham m ond,

Delta, Committee.

2g8

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

E X H IB IT F. R

eport

of

C

o m m it t e e

on

C

o r r e s p o n d in g

S e c r e t a r ie s

Gamma— T. S. Brown, Washington, Pa. Delta— J. S. Goodwin and M. W. Miller, Greencastle, Ind. Epsilon— E. H. Owings, Danville, K y.

Theta— W. E. Dennison, Delaware, O. Iota— M. B. Sturges, Hanover, Ind. Lambda— Will F. Bryan, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Psi— J. R. Lamar, Bethany College, W. Va. Alpha Alpha— (“ Sub-rosa” ), J. A. Robison, Monmouth, 111.

Alpha E ta— (“ Sub-rosa” ), T. W. Phillips, Granville, O. Alpha Lambda— F. W. Thomas, Wooster, O. Alpha Nu— L. D. L. Tosh, Lawrence, Kansas.

Alpha Omicron— S. I. Munger, Tehuacana, Tiexas.

Alpha Pi— A. D. Hall, Madison, Wis. Alpha Rho— A. R. McPherson, Evanston, 111.

Alpha Sigma— W. B. Glanding, Carlisle, Pa. The Alumni chapters are not represented. Their Corres­ ponding Secretaries are probably the same as last year.

Respectfully submitted, E. W a m b a u g h , Theta, A. T. B r o w n , Alpha Alpha, J. E l l i o t , Alpha Sigma, Committee.

E X H IB IT G. P u b lis h in g A c c o u n t o f t h e B e t a T h e t a P i P a p e r

(Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, Vol. I ll) r e c e ip t s

:

From R. H. Young, Treasurer: In 3 drafts direct................................................. $153.00 Per 82 subscriptions sent editors...................... 123.00 Sales of back Nos., e tc .......................................

3.00— $279.00 From Theta chapter, on overpayment............

11.00 Total Received

$290.00

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

299

e x p e n d it u r e s :

Total expense of publishing and mailing during the term ............ .................................................................

Return overpayment to Theta chapter...........................

$228.30 11.00

T otal............ ............................... ........................

B alance in favor of the paper............................................

$239.30 50.70

P u b l is h in g A B

ccount

efo re th e

of th e

B eta T

A d dr ess

heta

and

P oem D

P i C o n v e n t io n

of

e l iv e r e d

1875

expenses:

Paid Printers......................................................................

Postage and Expressage....................................................

$45 .50 1.90

Total C ost...........................................................

$47.40

r e c e ip t s

:

From Dr. T. Parvin, Orator.................................. $8.00 From all others...................................................... 10.93— $ 18.93 Balance— Loss........................................................

$28.47

Balance charged to Beta Theta Pi Paper account.

E X H IB IT I. To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Chapters would offer the following report: Gamma chapter, Washington and Jefferson College, Wash­ ington, Pa. The chapter now numbers eleven, distributed as follows: two seniors, four juniors, three sophomores, and two freshmen. Chapter is in good condition, with bright prospects ahead. Rivals, Phi Kappa Sigma, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Delta Tau Delta, Alpha Gamma, Phi Delta Kappa, Phi Delta Theta.

Delta chapter, Asbury College, Greencastle, Indiana, have done excellent work and have offered dopy to six since the last

300

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

Convention— one, a Delta Kappa Epsilon. We close up the year with a membership of twenty-five— three of whom having graduated will not return. In the first term’s work twenty Betas made an average of 99 47-48 per cent. The boys also stand well on the rostrum, in society, and in the estimation of the people of the city. The University numbers 509 students. The Betas will be distributed as follows at the beginning of next year: six seniors, six juniors, five sophomores, five freshmen. The Betas are first in the Greek World at Asbury, among the following rivals: Phi Gamma Delta, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Phi Kappa Psi, Sigma Chi, Delta Tau Delta, and Phi Delta Theta. The last mentioned died with the leaving of the present senior class.

Epsilon chapter, Centre College, Danville, K y., is doing well and taking its share of the honors. Has received this year a number of good additions. It graduated but one, who was, how­ ever, the Valedictorian of his class. It has the good-will of the Faculty, citizens and young ladies. Epsilon has a number of prominent Betas in its neighborhood.

Theta, at Wesleyan University, Delaware, O., presents a fine showing, as usual. Her membership during the past year was eighteen. She sends out this year the handsome number of seven, who shared the honors of their class and associates. Her prospects are good and her Beta zeal very warm. Her rivals are Chi Phi, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, Sigma Chi, and Phi Delta Theta.

Iota, at Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana, has been hold­ ing her own very well during the past year, with nine good members. Her prospects are the best of any Fraternity in col­ lege. Rivals: Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Delta Tau Delta. The Betas, as ever, stand high in the es­ teem of the Faculty and of the young ladies of that region of country, many of whom wear the badge quite loyally. Hanover College is doing well, and a solid advance in Betaism and college interests go hand in hand. Where Betas flourish, there may be found go-a-headitiveness and stick-to-itiveness: unity and love.

Kappa, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, had a membership of eight last year. Has also some eight resident graduates in that vicinity. A t a late pleasant reunion, thirty of Beta’s sons were

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

301

in attendance. Prospects good, one rival— The Phi Delta Theta Society.

Lambda, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, Michigan, re­ ports three resident Alumni, two sophomores, and two freshmen, with fine prospects for the coming year. There are eight or nine societies at the University.

X i chapter, Knox College, Galesburg, 111., is no longer in existence, but its Alumni are loyal Greeks, and would be glad to see it re-established when the college is in a more flourishing con­ dition ; some changes in the college give to it a brighter outlook.

Tau, at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., numbers ten members for the ensuing year, distributed as follows: four se­ niors, three juniors, two sophomores, one freshman. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, and Phi Delta Theta. The Phi Kappa Psi society is the strongest rival. The Faculty are well disposed toward the Betas, more so than to any other fra­ ternity. We have a neat hall in college, and intend to “ fix u p ” for next year. The college the past year enrolled 220 students.

Psi, at Bethany College, Bethany, W. Va., has had during the past year a membership of thirteen— two seniors, five juniors, three sophomores, and three freshmen. Its rivals are— the Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Tau Delta, and Alpha Gamma. The chapter is in a flourishing condition, and its prospects for the future are most promising. It acknowledges no superior.

Alpha Alpha, Monmouth College, Monmouth, 111., closed the college year of ’76 with six members, distributed as follows: one senior, three juniors, one sophomore, and one freshman.

Rivals— Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Psi, and Sigma Chi. Laws have been passed by the senate, strictly prohibiting all connection with fraternities, but notwithstanding the opposition, Alpha Alpha’s prospects are good and she is bound to live and prosper.

Alpha Delta, Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri, reports chapter in good condition, with eleven members. Our brothers of Alpha Delta are acquitting themselves like men, and are carrying away their full share of class and society honors.

Alpha Eta, Denison University, Granville, Ohio: the strongest anti-fraternity laws of the college could not but operate against Alpha Eta. We would suggest the probability that she is

302

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

not dead, but only sleepeth. A reunion of Beta Alumni was held there during the Commencement, and it was hoped that good results would flow from the meeting.

Alpha Theta, Virginia M ilitary Institute, Lexington, Va., is reported to be in a flourishing condition, and presenting, as ever, a bold front to the enemy.

Alpha Lambda, of University of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, closed the past year with an active membership of eighteen— two seniors, seven juniors, four sophomores, and five freshmen.

During the year it received a membership from the Sigma Delta Pi*, which immediately sent its charter to the powers that be.

Our rivals are— Phi Kappa Psi, Sigma Chi, and Phi Delta Theta.

Some of these are rivals not to be despised, but Alpha Lambda recognizes none of them as her equal.

Alpha Nu, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, is doing nobly. It counts up a list of nineteen members, as follows: Faculty one, seniors three, juniors five, sophomores three, fresh­ men four, and resident graduates two. Alpha Nu graduated this year three, as true Greeks as ever bore shield. Two of these graduates, and two others of Alpha Nu, will go up to the University of Michigan, and thus re-enforce Lambda. One other it is expected will strengthen our new Boston University chapter.

During the year the Phi Kappa Psi have established a chapter at the University. Alpha Nu calls for a wide interchange of letters between the chapters.

Alpha Omicron chapter, at Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, has sent out seven graduates since its establishment in June, ’73, and now has six members, genuine Betas.

Alpha Pi chapter, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis­ consin, had thirteen members during the past year, three seniors, four juniors, four sophomores, and one freshman. All things are favorable, and their only rival is the Phi Kappa Psi society, which is not considered a formidable opponent. We may look for good work at the hands of Alpha Pi. Alpha Rho chapter, Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., is in a flourishing condition, with fifteen ardent lovers of Wooglin. Rivals— Sigma Chi, and Phi Kappa Sigma. * The parent chapter of this fraternity (it only had two) afterwards became the Dartmouth chapter of Beta Theta Pi.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

303

Alpha Sigma, at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., during the past year, has led the three lower classes, has also had the Latin Salutatory on commencement day. Closed the year with eleven members, three of whom commenced life on the 29th of June, ult. Alpha Sigma’s prospects for the coming year are very favorable.

Respectfully submitted, Jos. C. T h o m p so n , H e n r y S h i r k , J r .,

Committee.

E X H IB IT J. R

eport

of

G

eneral

Secr etar y

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your General Secretary for the years 1875-76 would most respectfully submit the following report: Under the ever watchful eye of Brother A. N. Grant, Lamb­ da chapter, at Ann Arbor, Mich., was reorganized, and with Grant to guide, it has made a most wonderful growth.

J. D. S. Riggs, one of the original founders of Alpha Zeta, returned to his place and promised well for a time to reorganize that chapter, but the strength of the Psi Upsilon and Delta Kappa Epsilon rendered the work so difficult that it was finally given up, nothing having been accomplished after two months’ hard work.

Alpha Epsilon promised well for the re-establishment of the Iowa State University chapter, and Alpha Alpha held out great encouragements for the resurrection of the Galesburg chapter, but neither were productive of any results.

A proposition was received from J. Cannon Hobson for the establishment of a chapter at William and M ary College, which was placed before the Fraternity according to the “ Grant Code,” carried, and the chapter established.

Several propositions were received for chapters but lacked the approval of the proper Assistant General Secretary and were referred back to that officer, after which nothing was heard from them.

304

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

A proposition properly approved was received and placed before the Fraternity for a chapter at Boston College of Liberal Arts.

This proposition was carried, but the votes of chapters were delayed, so that by the time sufficient were received it was too late for the signatures from Presiding Chapter.

Finally, Gentlemen and Brothers, allow me to make a suggestion: In the selection of Editors, a Presiding Chapter, and General Secretary, especial attention should be given the fact that these officers should be as near each other as possible.

Of necessity, very much matter goes to the Editor, which the Presiding Chapter, and especially the General Secretary, should see, ai}d vice versa— again, they should be in a position to con­ verse and consult frequently and freely— and lastly, though by far not the least, very much unnecessary delay, if not danger and actual loss, is caused by the transmission of valuable matter and papers from one to the other. This can all be avoided if the above named officers are in the same locality.

A ll of which is most respectfully submitted by your obedient Brother and General Secretary.

D. H.

Approved by Committee.

Cheney.

G eo.

C.

R a n k in ,

Chairman.

E X H IB IT K. P a p e r ’s L i s t

of

S u b s c r ib e r s

by

C

hapters

Alpha 2, Beta 1, Gamma 7, Delta 19, Epsilon 8, Zeta 1, E ta — , Theta 14, Iota 14, Iota (prime) 1, Kappa 8, Lambda 5, M u — , Nu (see Gamma), X i 4, Omicron 10, Pi 10, Rho 1, Sigma — , Tau 1, Upsilon — , Phi — , Chi 3, Psi 13, Omega — , Alpha Alpha 9, Alpha Beta — , Alpha Gamma 1, Alpha Delta 13, Alpha Epsilon 5, Alpha Zeta — , Alpha Eta 5, Alpha Theta 1, Alpha Iota 7, Alpha Kappa — , Alpha Lambda 9, Alpha Mu — , Alpha Nu 4, Alpha X i 9, Alpha Omicron 9, Alpha Pi 12, Alpha R h o s, Alpha Sigma 4, Alpha Tau 5, Alpha Alumni 13, Beta Alumni — , Gamma Alumni 1, Delta Alumni— , Epsilon Alumni

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

305

3, Zeta Alumni — , E ta Alumni — , Theta Alumni — , Iota Alumni 1.

E X H IB IT L. R eport

of

C

o m m it t e e o n

C atalogue

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: As Secretary of Committee on Catalogue, I have only a short report to make.

1st. Not all the chapters have furnished their Revised List.

2nd. Only two or three have complied with requirements in furnishing the coat of arms.

3rd. Only a few have stated the number of copies wanted by their chapter.

All the matter in our hands is now ready for the printer, and while we know that our list is incomplete we are unable to remedy the defect unless the chapters and individuals will lend a helping hand.

1 st. We must have a complete list.

2nd. We must have the number wanted by each chapter and the style.

3rd. We can’t publish without money, and chapters must come to the rescue.

We must have corrected and complete lists— the number needed by each and every chapter and the money with which to publish.

Most respectfully submitted, D. H.

Cheney, G

eo.

Secy, of Committee.

C . R a n k in ,

Jno. A. R T

om

o b in s o n ,

A. B rook,

Committee.

306

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

E X H IB IT M. R eport of G en era l T reasu rer B e ta T h e ta P i , 1875-76

t'.

VO

00

Sept. 1, 187 5, To balance on hand.................................. $ 6 8 . 3 9 To Beta Theta Pi Newspaper for the following subscriptions: Jno. J. Covington, Editor Beta Theta Pi, Sub­ scription List 1874 and 1875............

■$57. 00 Psi chapter..................... ............Oct. 21, 19.•50 Io ta..................................

21, 12 . 00 Alpha P i...........................

22, 15 . 00 Alpha D elta....................

22, 9 . 00 Gamma N u ......................

29, 9 . 00 Alpha Sigma....................

29, 6.. 00 Lam bda...........................

29, 7 '■50 Alpha A lpha....................

3 i» 10.•50 Alpha E ta .....................................Nov. 4, 4 . 50 Alpha Io ta........................

11, 10 •50 K appa...............................

12, 1 2 . 00 D elta.................................

13. 22.■So Alpha X i .........................

16, 13' 50 Alpha Lam bda...............

23. 1 2 ., 00 Alpha Omicron................

27. 1 2 . 00 Alpha D elta..................... ............Dec. 14, 3 . 00 22, Epsilon..............................

7■ 50 .

00 Alpha Epsilon..................

3 1. 50- 247-5° Z eta.................................. • • -M ay 5, 1 1. To Reserve Fund, Annual Dues.

Pi chapter........................ ...........June 2, $13'. 00 26, 11 .00 Alpha K app a...................

26, 11..00 Alpha D elta....................

8..00 26, Alpha P i...........................

Alpha N u .........................

27. 14 . 00 . 00 K ap p a...............................

7■ 30.

11.,00 Alpha Gam m a................. ..........July I, 2, 1 2 . 00 - 87.00 Alpha Tau. ....................... $402.89 July 3, To Balance D own.................................................

$224.89

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1876

October 8, 1875. B y Reserve Fund for follow­ ing disbursements: Jno. J. Covington, Editor Beta Theta Pi, 1875 and 1876, Stamps, etc.........................$ 3.00 D. H. Cheney, Gen. Sec’y, Postage, e tc........... 10.00

307

$ 13.00

B y Beta Theta Pi Newspaper A cct.: Check to D. H. Cheney, Nov. 16 ............... $100.00 O. R. Brouse, Oct. 21, Iota dues paid him by chapter................................................

12.00 Check to 0 . R. Brouse, Feb. 8..................

26.00 Check to O. R. Brouse, Feb. 19 .................. 27.00— $165.00 $178.00 Balance Down........................................................

$224.89

Respectfully submitted, R.

H arvey

Young,

General Treasurer.

Mlinutes of tfye Convention, of 1 8 7 7 PR O CE E D IN G S

OF T H E

T H IR T Y -E IG H T H

ANNUAL

CO N V EN TIO N OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y Held at D E TR O IT , M ICH IG AN , AU G U ST 15TH,

i

6t h , A N D

17TH, 1877

R

e c o r d e r ’s

C

ourt

R

oom ,

C

it y

Hall,

D e t r o i t , August 15, 1 8 7 7 .

The Convention met at 7 :3c) P. M., and was called to order

by Brother Terrell. A temporary organization was effected, by calling Gen. R. W. Smith to the chair, and the appointment of Brother W. Thayer temporary secretary.

On motion of Brother Ransom, two committees were appointed, the first a committee on credentials; the second, on permanent organization, consisting of the following brothers: On Credentials: C. C. Williams, Alpha Upsilon; Fred.

Terrell, Delta; J. R. Lamar, Psi. On Permanent Organization: C. R. Hammond, Delta; W. O. Robb, Theta; J. H. Grant, Lambda.

Many delegates being still absent, it was moved that the Convention adjourn to meet at 10 A. M., August 16th.

R

e c o r d e r ’s

C ourt R

oom ,

August 16th, 10:00 A. M. Convention called to order, with Brother R. W. Smith in the chair. Prayer was offered by Chaplain Smith, after which the Convention listened to a very neat welcome address by Brother 309

310

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

Levi T. Griffin, of D etroit. Brother Ransom responded in an enthusiastic B eta speech.

On motion, the order of business used at the Philadelphia Convention was adopted.

The Com mittee on Credentials, being called for, made their report. (See Exhibit A.) The Committee on Perm anent Organization also reported as follows: President—W. A. Moore, Lambda.

Vice-President— C. J. Seaman, Alpha E ta.

Secretary—Fred. Terrell, Delta.

Chaplain—B. L. Smith, Psi. Sergeant-at-Arms—Jno. S. Goodwin, Delta.

The report having been adopted, Brother Moore took the chair, and delivered an inaugural address, in which he gave some interesting facts in the history of Lam bda chapter.

T he following standing committees were next appointed: Com mittee on Chapters: Geo. C. Rankin, J. J. Shields, B. L. Smith.

Com m ittee on Finance: W. C. Ransom, J. A. Burhans, C. J. Seaman.

Com mittee on Constitution: R. W. Smith, Fred. Terrell, C. C. Williams.

Com mittee on Necrology: F. Taggart, W. B. Young, R. C. Rankin.

Committee on N ext Convention: E. H. Terrell, J. A. Wickersham, W. O. Robb.

T he m inutes of the preceding meeting not yet having been heard, were next read and adopted.

The report of the General Secretary, being called for, was read and adopted. (See Exhibit B.) On a call for communications, the Secretary read the report o f th e E ditor of the B e t a T h e t a P i . (See Exhibit C .) The re­ port was referred to a Newspaper Committee.

Brother Ransom next read the report from the Catalogue Committee. (See Exhibit D.) Considerable discussion was called out by this report, and the following resolution, made by Brother Ransom, was adopted: Resolved, T h at A. N. G rant, of D elta; John I. Covington,

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

J

of Epsilon Alumni; 0 . R. Brouse, of Alpha Alumni; Chas. D. Walker, of Alpha Theta, and Geo. C. Rankin, of Alpha Alpha, be appointed a special committee at large to obtain subscriptions for the publication of the general catalogue, from the Alumni members of the Fraternity, and that they be earnestly and fra­ ternally solicited to enter upon the duty assigned them at once, and remit collections to the committee of publication, at Chicago, at the earliest possible moment, after the adjournment of this Convention.

The following Newspaper Committee was appointed: J. A. Burhlans, C. C. Williams, and B. L. Smith.

The time for hearing the Poem of Brother Lozier was fixed for 3 P. M. An invitation from the Detroit River N avy to attend their moonlight excursion was accepted.

On motion of Brother Smith, the Convention adjourned to meet at 2:30.

3 :oo P. M. Convention was called to order by Brother Moore, and Major Ransom made a report from the Committee on Endow­ ment, appointed at the last Annual Convention. (See Exhibit L.) A t this point all business was stopped to enable the brethren to listen to Brother Lozier’s Poem.

After the poem, a letter from Brother Jno. I. Covington was read by Brother Ransom.

The report of the Newspaper Committee was read and adopted. {See Exhibit E.) The following resolution, offered by Brother Ransom, was adopted: Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to report to the Convention an Orator and Poet, with alternates, for the Convention of the Fraternity for the year 1878.

Committee appointed: W. C. Ransom, R. W. Smith, J. H. Lozier.

The Convention next went into an election for the ensuing year, resulting as follows: General Secretary— J. R. Lamar, of Psi, Augusta, Ga. General Treasurer— O. R. Brouse, of Chicago, Illinois.

R e c o r d e r ’s C o u r t R oom ,

312

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

Presiding Chapter— Alpha Lambda, of Wooster, Ohio.

On motion of Brother Shields, the report of the General Treasurer was received, read and referred to the Finance Com­ mittee.

On motion, the report of the Committee on Finance was received and adopted, and the late Treasurer requested to turn over to his successor the books and accounts of his office, together with funds remaining on hand, as soon after the adjournment of the Convention as possible. (See Exhibit F F .)

The following committee on Fraternity Jewels was ap­ pointed. Committee— J. J. Shields, J. A. Burhans, C. J. Seaman.

The report from the committee on Orator and Poet was received and adopted. (See Exhibit G.) The following resolution was read and adopted: Resolved, That the Beta Theta Pi Convention return a vote of thanks to Brother Lozier for his able and well received poem, and that a committee be appointed to request the same for pub­ lication.

The committee on next place of meeting made their report, which was adopted. (See Exhibit H.) On motion, Brother W. C. Ransom was named as Visiting Brother of the Fraternity, the Convention at the same time expressing their confidence in Brother Ransom’s zeal and devo­ tion to our Order.

Convention adjourned to meet at 9130 A. M., August 17th.

9:30 A. M., August 17th.

Called to order by President Moore. Prayer was offered by Brother S. P. Kiefer, and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and adopted.

Brother Seaman made a verbal report as Song-Book agent, stating that there remained on hand a small cash balance, and about four hundred copies of the Song-Book. Report accepted.

The Committee on Chapters made their report, which was adopted. (See Exhibit I.) The Committee on Necrology made their report. (See Exhibit J.) The Presiding Chapter reported. (See Exhibit K.) The Committee on Jewels asked to be continued, with power R e c o r d e r ’s C o u r t R oom ,

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

313

to give the work to some other firm than our present jewelers.

Granted.

The following resolution offered by Brother Rankin, of Alpha Alpha, was adopted: Resolved, That a committee of one be appointed to draft a catalogue subscription paper, and that the alumni present be invited to subscribe in such amounts as they think proper.

Brother Rankin was appointed the committee.

The following resolution was offered by Brother W. C. Ran­ som, and was adopted: Resolved, That a committee be appointed which shall take into consideration the policy of entirely separating from the pro­ visions of our Constitution everything in any way pertaining to the secret or internal work of the Association, leaving that in­ strument purely an organic act, declaratory of the organization and purposes of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity.

If arriving at the conclusion that such a change would be for the permanent good and prosperity of the order, then to frame such a revision of the Constitution as shall carry into effect the plan suggested above, and report it for the consideration of the next Convention.

Also to draw up and report a system for the internal working of the Association, which shall embrace such portions of the Con­ stitution already in force as are vital to the name and traditions of the Association, a ceremonial for initiation and other work, to be used uniformly by all the chapters, together with such other limited but needful safeguards as may be necessary for the protection and unity of the Fraternity.

And after the report shall have been made and adopted by the constitutional number of chapters, then all injunctions to the publicity of the Constitution of the Beta Theta Pi will be removed, thus leaving the association in its organization and objects free to command for itself the commendation of educa­ tional authorities throughout the land.

The committee appointed to carry out this resolution was as follows: Maj. W. C. Ransom, A. N. Grant, O. R. Brouse.

Auxiliary Committee: John I. Covington, Levi T. Griffin, C. J. Seaman, G. C. Rankin, R. W. Smith, J. H. Lozier, Chas. D.

314

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

Walker, Harry Warren, J. B. Black, J. R. Lamar, J. R. Dobyns, Dr. Thad. A. Reamy.

It was moved that a committee, consisting of Brothers Chas. D. Walker, the President of the Presiding Chapter, and J. R. Lamar, be appointed to examine into the affairs of the Chapter at Blacksburg, Va., and report to the General Secretary.

Motion was carried.

The General Secretary not having presented a list of District Corresponding Secretaries to the Convention, the Secretary of the Convention was asked to nominate, and the following Brothers were named and confirmed: First District, B. L. Smith; Second District, Dump Car­ penter; Third District, C. H. McCarer; Fourth District, H. C. Morris; Fifth District, L. D. L. Tosh.

The following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That as delegates and visitors at the 38th Annual Convention of Beta Theta Pi, we return most hearty thanks to the Detroit Betas who have so kindly and faithfully greeted and entertained us in brotherly love.

The report of the Committee on Endowment was referred to the committee appointed under Brother Ransom’s resolution on changing the Constitution.

Brother Rankin reported that the Alumni present had sub­ scribed $135 to the catalogue fund, which announcement was received with great applause.

After singing a number of stirring songs, the Convention adjourned to meet at Indianapolis.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

315

EXHIBITS E X H IB IT A. R

epo rt

of

C o m m it t e e

on

C r e d e n t ia l s .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials submit the following report: Delegates present: Delta, C. R. Hammond; Theta, W. O. Robb; Lambda, J. H. Grant; Pi, O. Z. Hubbell; Psi, J. R. Lamar; Alpha Alpha, J. W. M cCoy; Alpha Gamma, J. M. Lawrence; Alpha Lambda, R. C. Rankin; Alpha Nu, J. A. Wickersham; Alpha Rho, Geo. E. Ackerman; Alpha Upsilon, C. C. Williams; Alpha Alumni, J. A. Burhans; Gamma Alumni, John S. Goodwin; Epsilon Alumni, Geo. B. Fox; E ta Alumni, Walter Thayer.

Visitors present: W. C. Ransom, Lambda; R. W. Smith, Alpha Alumni; J. H. Lozier, Delta; B. L. Smith, Psi; W. B. Young, Psi; W. Van Devanter, Delta; C. P. Hendershott, Psi; Harry Terrell, Delta; Levi T . Griffin, Lambda; C. L. Collins, Alpha Epsilon; Wm. A. Moore, Lambda; Sidney Miller, Lambda; G. C. Rankin, Alpha Alpha; J. R. McKee, Alpha Alpha; Dump Carpenter, Alpha Lambda; C. J. Seaman, Alpha Eta; Chas. O ’Connor, Alpha Lambda; F. D. Taggart, Alpha Lambda; W. B. McClintock, Pi; O. M. Barnes, Lambda; Frank Taggart, Alpha Lambda; G. B. Hoopingarner, Pi; S. P. Kiefer, Alpha Gamma; C. J. Kiefer, Alpha Gamma; J. A. Hall, Alpha Gamma; C. R. Bagg, Theta; John Prugh, Epsilon Alum­ ni; J. P. Vogel, Theta; Fred. Terrell, Delta.

E X H IB IT B. R e p o r t o f t h e G e n e r a l S e c r e ta r y o f B e ta T h e ta Pi.

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: As General Secretary of Beta Theta Pi for 1876-7, I have little of vast import to present.

On entering upon the delightful duties of the office in

316

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

September, I found that the Fraternity had duly consented to the establishment of a chapter in Boston University, Boston, Mass., and it only remained for the charter to be issued, which was done, and Alpha Upsilon was born.

A proposition was presented for the organization of a chapter in Va. Agricultural and Mechanical College, Blacksburg, Va., which was approved by the proper officers and three-fourths of the chapters. A charter was issued regularly, and Alpha Phi flourishes.

A proposition for the formation of a chapter in Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, signed by six good men and true, was recently received, and being approved by Chief Assistant and General Secretaries, now awaits the approval of the Presiding Chapter and Fraternity.

The chapters and brothers generally should hasten to a more vigorous support of the fraternal organ. The publication of correspondence from the chapters saves much burdensome writing, and probably accomplishes the same end. For this reason alone the paper should be liberally encouraged by every true Greek. Its other heaven-reaching virtues it is superfluous to enumerate.

I am glad to report that the prosperity of the Fraternity is general. Advices from every quarter are encouraging.

Respectfully submitted, G e o . C. R a n k i n , General Secretary.

E X H IB IT C. R

epo rt of th e

E

d it o r o f t h e

B

eta

T

heta

To the General Convention of Beta Theta Pi: B r o t h e r s : I v e r y m u c h r e g re t m y in a b ility

Pi

to b e p resen t

w it h y o u a n d t o ta k e p a r t in th e jo y s t h a t I k n o w a re y o u r s.

The District Conference of our denomination meets the same day you do, and it is necessary for me to be present. But I wish to call your attention to a few things in relation to myself and the paper, of which, by your generosity and kindness, I am editor.

When I was chosen as your editor, I was not only ignorant of

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

3 17

the heavy duties that pertain to the office, but, unfortunately for us all, I knew very little about publishers and compositors.

The first eight numbers, from this cause, were very far from what I wished in all respects; but I am happy to say that by a little strategy, Brother Rankin and myself succeeded in changing the place of publication, and I think we can all agree that the change was aptly made.

M y experience, extending over the period of one year, has not only taught me many valuable lessons, but has also placed me in a position in such relation to the Fraternity that I can impart some useful instruction, whereby our paper in the future may be greatly profited.

What we need first is a general recognition of the value of our Organ, on the part of the chapters and alumni, and of its claims upon them.

M y subscription list shows that our paper is hardly esteemed of any great value by a great majority of our members, or if it is valued, they expect to gain all of its benefits free of cost, or at the expense of one hundred and sixteen subscribers.

Brother Brouse, if you remember, predicted just the state of affairs that we have now reached. Owing to the fact that only one-third of our members are subscribers, and the other twothirds borrowers, we have fallen short eighty-six dollars in meeting our expense, and only a small sum in hand to print the remaining four copies that belong to the present volume. The delegates to this Convention must, as soon as they return to college, send on more names and money, or we will have the same thing to record next year. Again, since the paper is not fully appreciated, the expense of editing it is greatly augmented, and the editor’s time badly invaded. I do not think that I am far wrong when I say that in the past year I have written and mailed six hundred postal cards, merely for “ copy,� and three hundred and fifty more, begging the small sum of $1.50 from each member that our paper might live. To these numerous calls many chapters have never answered a line, and the majority gave but a feeble response.

This ought not to be. Every man ought to feel as deep an interest in the welfare of the paper, and the matters of his own chapter, as the editor of the paper is compelled to feel. Every

318

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

chapter ought to have two-thirds of its members subscribers to the paper, and write items for the column— Among the Greeks— and a long letter each month. If this were the case, we could put the subscription price down to one dollar and enlarge the paper.

There is another matter that is a source of annoyance. Some will continue to send money in the general mail, then when it is lost, they ask, as a right, that they have the paper sent to them one year free of cost. This is contrary to common sense and the best interests of the paper.

There is another matter that I wish to call your attention to, and that is the complaints we all have seen in the paper in regard to the Presiding Chapter.

Not one of these complaints was written by your editor in a spirit of anger, but simply complained because I thought, in common with many others, that our correspondence was some­ times worthy of recognition. I wrote very many times on matters of importance and for the welfare of both paper and the Fraternity, and never was honored with a reply. As an instance, I wrote several times, enquiring who was the President of Delta, as a matter for publication, as by virtue of his office in his own chapter he is at the head of the Order; but who this officer was, is or shall be, is something unknown to me and the Frater­ nity at large down to the present day. I simply call the attention of the Convention to these facts in order to justify myself in what I call justly deserved rebukes and criticisms on the conduct of our Presiding Chapter in this one particular. In other respects, I have since learned by the supplement, she has done her whole duty.

I wish now to call your attention as a Convention to the names of some men that have been earnest “ in season and out of season” in doing much and noble work for the Fraternity during the last year, and I recommend that if any of your present officers are to be removed,these may not be entirely overlooked “ when the vote goes round ’ ’ : John S. Goodwin, of Greencastle, Ind., is in every way capable and worthy to fill any position you may give him.

J. R. Lamar, of Bethany, is as earnest and ambitious a Greek as we have in our number, and well qualified to fill a leading position in our midst.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

319

W. E. Dennison, of Delaware, has the good of the Fraternity at heart, and wields a good influence over us, by “ stirring up our pure minds by way of remembrance.”

J. A. Robison, of Monmouth, and C. A. Benton, of Fulton, are worthy of much honor for the work they have done and are doing for the Order. Many others also deserve praise for the way they seconded and assisted all of our attempts to place the paper on a firm foundation.

Hoping that your deliberations will awaken a general interest in the fraternity relative to the well-being of our noble Order and its exponent— the paper, and that upon my mistakes, which, owing to my inexperience and other retarding causes, have been many, you will let fall the mantle of charity and hide them forever.

I remain, Your servant in----- et-----E . J. G a n t z .

Below, please find the Publishing Account of the T h e t a P i paper (Nos. 7 to 6, inclusive, Vol. I l l and IV.)

B e ta

r e c e ip t s :

From Geo. M. Halm, Treasurer, in two drafts direct........$100.00 Per advertisement.................................................................

30.00 Per O. R. Brouse..................................................................... 25.50 Per 116 subscriptions............................................................. 17 4.00 Total received............................................................ $329.50 E X PEN D ITU R ES:

Paid J. D. Olmsted for printing eight numbers and supplement................................................. $226.05 Paid McClelland & Price for two numbers and supplement...................... .................................. 60.00 Postage.................................................................... 10.81 All other expenses.................................................. 30.00 Total Expenses............................ ............................ $326.86 Balance in favor of paper...................................................... $ 2.64 Due to paper account from Delta for supplement.............. 10.00 T otal in favor of paper............................................... $12.64

320

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

E X H IB IT D. D e t r o i t , M ic h .,

August 15,1877.

To the Beta Theta P i Convention: B re th re n : Your Committee on Catalogue undertook to raise the funds necessary for publishing in M ay last, having se­ cured the services of Brother J. A. Burhans of Delta, who has written to every chapter within his reach and to many individuals, at much cost of time and some money.

Nearly seventy letters have been written, and yet he has only $200.50 subject to the orders of your committee, whereas they need over $900.

Many have not answered at all, and some have sent only part of their allotment. Brother Burhans can give you all the details.

We, however, think that when the fall term opens, the required amounts will be paid in. A t the end of the college year, there are many demands upon an already almost empty purse, so we scarcely think strange the result we found, when we see that the chapters relied upon themselves to raise the amounts. We think that the Alumni if properly approached will give $5, $2 or $1 apiece, and we submit that it will do them and the chapters much good to have these old members give— where the money goes there the heart goes— if I may parody scripture.

Therefore, we urge that the Alumni be personally appealed to by each chapter at once on the opening of college.

We have received at yet only ten (10) armorial designs, but hope many more will be sent to us. The extra cost for each de­ sign will be about $10.

We hoped to have had the new catalogues ready for distri­ bution at this Convention, but for reasons given above, we have had to forego that pleasure.

There having been no formal meeting of the committee for some months, we submit this statement of facts which you will want.

For the committee.

0 . R. Brouse.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

321

E X H IB IT E. R

eport

of

C o m m it t e e

on

N

ew spaper.

To the Honorable Convention of the Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Newspaper desire to report to you that we appreciate the labors of our editor, Brother Gantz, and think that the thanks of the Fraternity are due to him for his earnest endeavors for our paper. We further recommend that the publi­ cation of the B e t a T h e t a P i be continued, and that as editor of the same for the coming year the Convention appoint Brother Geo. C. Rankin, of Monmouth, Ills., and as assistant editors Brothers J. A. Robison and J. R. Berry be appointed.

It is also the opinion of your committee that the subscription price should be reduced to one dollar per year, and ask that a united effort be put forth to place a copy in the hands of every member of Beta Theta Pi. We would call the attention of all Betas to this paper as an advertising medium, whereby a very desirable class of patronage may be reached.

J. A. B u r h a n s , C. C. W i l li a m s , B . L. S m ith , Committee.

E X H IB IT F R eport

of

G eorge

M.

H a lm ,

T reasu rer

r e c e ip t s

From “ “ “ ** “ 44 “

B e ta

T h e ta

Pi.

:

R. H. Young, Treasurer............................................ $124.89 Geo. C. Rankin, General Secretary.........................

32.00 Delta chapter..............................................................

15 00 Iota chapter.................................................................

20.50 Gamma chapter..........................................................

12.50 Alpha Alpha chapter..................................................

10.50 Theta chapter..............................................................

11.00 Psi chapter...................................................................

5.00 Total

$231.39

322

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877 d is b u r s e m e n t s :

For Beta Theta Pi Newspaper........................................... $100.00 10.50 For Subscription, Iota chapter...........................................

For Subscription, Alpha Alpha chapter............................

4.50 For Stamps and Stationery.................................................

6.00 Balance, cash on hand......................................................... 110.39 T o ta l........................................................................... $231.39

(Signed)

M. August

G eo.

C l e v e l a n d , O h io ,

H a lm ,

Treasurer Beta Theta Pi.

15, 1877.

E X H IB IT FF. R

eport

of th e

C o m m it t e e

on

F in a n c e .

To the Convention of the Beta Theta Pi: The undersigned, your Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the report of the General Treasurer, have had the same under consideration, and find it correct and the balance in the treasury at this date $110.39.

Your committee observe with some surprise that apparently but a small portion of the general dues for the current year have been paid, only six of the chapters having paid any portion of the amount due from them under the provisions of the Constitution, unless it may be that the funds credited from the General Secre­ tary are derived from that source.

Judging from the receipts of former years, there must be as much as two or three hundred dollars due from the chapters, and as in the present need of the fraternity exchequer, to meet demands upon it for newspaper, printing of catalogue, and other expenses, your committee respectfully recommend that the Treasurer be instructed to take immediate steps to collect all balances due from delinquent chapters, and they be most ear­ nestly requested to remit for same without delay.

Your committee do not think it wise that a large balance should accumulate in the hands of the General Treasurer, but for the coming year there will be pressing need for all the funds that can be constitutionally asked for from the chapters, and it is

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

323

hoped that they will meet their obligations with cheerfulness and promptness.

Your committee recommend that the thanks of the Frater­ nity be tendered the retiring Treasurer for the faithful perfor­ mance of his official duties during the past year.

Respectfully submitted, W. C. R a n s o m , Chairman.

J. A. B u r h a n s , C. J. S e a m a n .

D e t r o i t , M i c h ., August 17, 1877.

E X H IB IT G. R

epo rt op

C o m m it t e e

on

O rator

and

P oet

for

N

ext

C o n v e n t io n .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your committee would respectfully report as follows: Orator, Hon. Schuyler Colfax, South Bend, Indiana.

Alternate, Hon. A. J. Poppleton, Omaha, Nebraska.

Poet, W. W. Knox, Pittsburg.

Alternate, Rev. D. H. Moore, Cincinnati.

W . C. R

a nso m .

R . W . S m it h ,

J. H.

L o z ie r .

E X H IB IT H. R

epo rt

of

C o m m it t e e

on

N

ext

P lace

M

of

e e t in g .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta P i: Your committee respectfully recommend that the next An­ nual Convention meet at Indianapolis, Indiana, on the 6th, 7th and 8th of September, 1878.

C . H. T e r r e l l , W . O. R J.

A.

obb,

W

ic k e r s h a m .

324

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

E X H IB IT I. R

epo r t of t h e

C o m m it t e e

on

C h a pter s.

To the Honorable Convention of the Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Chapters would respectfully submit the following report: Gamma, at Washington and Jefferson College, Pa., is re­ ported to be in a flourishing condition.

Delta, at Asbury University, Greencastle, Ind., had twentyfive men last year, distributed as follows: six seniors, six juniors, five sophomores, four freshmen, and four preps. The year was a prosperous one, the graduating Betas capturing the first and two special honors. Prospects for next college year are very flattering.

Has strong rivals, but we have no fear as to the results. Paul Wilcox, Corresponding Secretary.

Epsilon, at Centre College, Danville, K y., is not represented but is in first-class shape.

Zeta, at Hampden-Sidney College, Virginia, has fifteen regular members besides five seminary students. Took both first and second honors, and nearly all the medals and speakers’ posi­ tions. Was never so prosperous and never had such bright prospects for the future. Will commence next year with nine loyal boys. Rivals, Sigma Chi, Chi Phi, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi. Corresponding Secretary, A. A. Campbell.

Theta, at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio, opened last year with nine members, initiated three and grad­ uated four, and with eight will begin the next fall campaign.

Theta is red-hot, earnest and thoroughly wide awake, and pledges herself to retain her high standing and, if possible, advance.

Rivals, Chi Phi, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta. Corresponding Secretary, Willis O. Robb.

Iota, at Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana, as ever, stands firm and true. Has ten staunch men.

Kappa, at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, is full of true Greek spirit.

Lambda, at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., had eleven members during the past year, six in the literary and five in other departments. She has labored hard, deserves much credit

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

325

and promises to regain her former high standing in the U. of M. Rivals, Alpha Delta Phi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Psi Upsilon, Chi Psi, Sigma Phi, Zeta Psi, Phi Delta Theta, Delta Upsilon, Phi Kappa Psi. D. A. Garwood. Corresponding Secretary.

Omicron, at University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va., is strong and true.

Pi, at Indiana State University, Bloomington, Ind., flour­ ished, last year, with a membership of twenty-one, as follows: four seniors, three juniors, two sophomores, six freshmen, five preps., and one law. Last commencement, she received first and philosophical honors, also first and second honors in preparatory department and first in law. Rivals, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Gamma Delta. J. P. Carr, Corresponding Secretary.

Rho, at Washington-Lee College, Lexington, Va., is not strong in numbers but is full of Beta zeal. Had four good mem­ bers last year, and will probably commence the new year with six.

Corresponding Secretary, George A. Robinson, care J. L. Camp­ bell, Jr., Lexington, Va. An effort will probably soon be made to revive Sigma.

Tau, at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Ind., numbers eleven good men. Her members stand foremost in college influence and scholarship, and she will continue to put forth all efforts to maintain her prominent position in college. Rivals, Phi Gamma Delta, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Psi. Corresponding Secretary, R. H. Thompson.

Brother Charles reports that the prospects for the re­ establishment of Upsilon and Phi are favorable.

Chi, at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin, still remains subrosa, but concealment seems to agree with her. We doubt whether we have a stronger, more united and more enthusiastic chapter. In class ’77 numbering twenty there were more than a dozen Greeks. Nor is Chi weak in the lower classes. She has a strong, zealous membership and the fraternity will not be dis­ appointed in placing great reliance upon the fidelity of Chi. Psi, at Bethany College, Bethany, West Virginia, was never more prosperous. Had fourteen members, nine of whom will return. She is overflowing with zeal for the work, and shows her faith in Betaism by taking her full share of honors in college and

326

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

societies. Rivals, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, and Alpha Gamma. Corresponding Secretary, B. L. Smith.

Alpha Alpha, as is well-known, is sub-rosa on account of stringent anti-secret society laws passed by the college senate.

Corresponding Secretary, Jno. A. Robison, Monmouth, 111.

Alpha Gamma, at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio, reports her condition extra good. Had sixteen members, with flattering prospects for coming year. All the editors, four in number, are Betas. Three of the staff last year were Greeks.

Betas also carried off both honors. A t the next contest, Alpha Gamma will have three out of the six performers. Corresponding Secretary, L. Edgar Miller, Springfield, Ohio.

Alpha Delta, at Westminster College, Fulton, Mo., had twelve zealous members last year, including three resident alumni. Her men are acknowledged leaders in college and adorn the brotherhood.

Alpha Epsilon, at Iowa Wesleyan University, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, is a band of brave Greeks, first in everything worthy.

Alpha Theta, at Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Va., is flourishing finely, having twelve members, eight of whom will return. She is waking up to general fraternity work and prom­ ises to become a live, go-ahead chapter. She gets a full share of honors and positions, and is not afraid of her rivals, Alpha Tau Omega, Sigma Nu, Kappa Sigma Kappa, Kappa Alpha. Corres­ ponding Secretary, R. G. Withers.

Alpha Iota, at Washington University, St. Louis, Mo., is strong and true. Her Greek fire burns with no unsteady flame.

Alpha Kappa, at Richmond College, Richmond, Va., is a fine chapter of eleven Beta boys, six of whom will return and take up the work next year. Last commencement, took two A. M. degrees, two out of three medals, has Brother Riggan, the best student ever at the college, lifted two Phi Kappa Psis, has a very fine hall, and is by far the best fraternity in college. She bids fair to become a leading and powerful chapter in Beta Theta Pi. A year or so of such work like the past will tell. Rivals, Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta. Corresponding Secretary, M. B. Curry, No. 15 East Franklin Street, Richmond, Va. Alpha Lambda, at Wooster University, Wooster, Ohio, reports as much true Beta enthusiasm and success as her sisters.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

327

Had twenty-two members last year, seven of whom graduated.

In accordance with Beta custom, all collegiate, oratorical and class honors were awarded to her sons. Enters the ensuing year with thirteen men. Rivals, Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, Theta Delta Chi.* Corresponding Secretary, Dump Carpenter.

Alpha Mu, at Howard College, Marion, Alabama, was forced to suspend, owing to stringent anti-fraternity laws. All her boys left last year. Brother W. M. Wilkerson, Marion, Ala., can answer all questions concerning her papers, etc.

Alpha Nu, at University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, closed this year with sixteen as enthusiastic Betas as can be found. S. M. Smith, Corresponding Secretary, is a warm Greek and leads the fight against the Phi Kappa Psi, the only opposing fraternity. Fine prospects.

Alpha X i, at Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, Va., initiated six men and now has eleven jolly Greeks, who constitute confessedly the best chapter in the institution. Their standard is high and they have the respect of faculty and students. Rivals, Kappa Alpha, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Sigma, Sigma Chi. Corresponding Secretary, Edmund Alexander.

Alpha Omicron, at Trinity University, Tehuacana, Texas, is near us in spirit, though far away. Her altar fires are burning brightly.

Alpha Pi, at University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wis., has a large and worthy membership. Howard Morris is a host in him­ self. Her Secretary writes: “ I pledge her zeal in the cause of Betaism, and its principles.” Corresponding Secretary, Howard Morris.

Alpha Rho, at Northwestern University, Evanston, 111., is flourishing grandly, having a membership of eighteen. Has two strong rivals, Phi Kappa Sigma and Sigma Chi, but the Beta Theta Pi is considered by all the best in college. Corresponding Secretary, W. J. Hobart.

Alpha Sigma, at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., is in thriving order; had twelve men and bore off the honors. * This is a mistake. Theta Delta Chi never had a chapter at Wooster.

J. Cal Hanna suggests that it was due to the fact that Cary R. Montgomery, a student at Wooster, was a member of Theta Delta Chi.— W. R. B.

328

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

Alpha Tau, at William and Mary College, Va., is flourishing.

Alpha Upsilon, at Boston University, Boston, Mass. though less than a year old, closed the year with thirteen enthusiastic members, four of whom graduated. One graduate returns and three incoming freshmen are pledged. The membership will be kept at about fifteen. Rival, Theta Delta Chi. Corresponding Secretary, C. C. Dodge, 18 Beacon Street, Boston, Mass.

Alpha Phi, at Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College, Blacksburg, Va., the baby chapter, is in splendid condition.

She could not be otherwise with Brother Chas. Martin to guide her upward and onward. Has twelve members. Rivals, Pi Kappa Alpha, Black Badge, Kappa Sigma, Kappa Sigma Kappa.

Corresponding Secretary, C. A. Weller.

A proposition is now before the Fraternity for the estab­ lishment of a chapter at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md. (Signed) G e o . C . R a n k in , B. L. S m i t h , J. J. S h i e l d s , Committee.

E X H IB IT K. R

epo rt of

P r e s id in g C h a p t e r .

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The Presiding Chapter submits the following brief report: On hearing of the honor conferred on her by the Fraternity, Lambda, although in no way fitted for the position, at once entered upon the discharge of her duties, and for whatever she has done amiss she asks the indulgence of your honorable body.

During the year she has established two new chapters, Alpha Upsilon, at Boston University, which had a very favorable start and is already a strong chapter, and Alpha Phi, at Blacks­ burg, Va. This chapter was established in due form by the Presiding Chapter and General Secretary, but we wish to call your attention to the fact that several protests have been entered against her by southern chapters. On the recommendation of your Catalogue Committee, we made Brother J. A. Burhans collecting agent for the catalogue fund.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

329

Although our Fraternity at large is very prosperous, yet we have several chapters that are laboring under difficulties. The Presiding Chapter is one of this class, and we would recommend that the Fraternity look after the weaker chapters, and en­ deavor to strengthen and support them.

W. F. B r y a n , President.

J. J. S h i e l d s , Cor. Secretary.

E X H IB IT L. To the Beta Theta P i Convention: D e tr o it,

M ic h .,

August

15,

18 77.

Dear Brethren: Your committee, to whom was referred the matter of en­ dowment and incorporation of the Fraternity, respectfully report that we look with favor upon the scheme, and think that some such system as would catch and invest any surplus funds result­ ing from the publication of the paper from year to year, and of the catalogue, or from gifts or bequests, would be wise, although the amount of money to be expected just now from these sources is not large. We believe that, with an enlarged purpose and a simple but effective system, the accretions would be something, and would grow larger from time to time; and at last we may lay a foundation on which grander things may be erected in the time to come. We, therefore, recommend the passage of the accompanying resolution and laws: Resolved, That Epsilon Alumni chapter be requested to incorporate the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity under the laws of the State of Ohio, naming such trustees as the chapter may deem fit.

And that the General Secretary be directed to see that this is done without delay.

LAWS

Be it enacted by the Beta Theta P i Convention, August 15, 1877, at Detroit, Michigan, that S e c . 1. The fiscal year shall close with the month of June in each year. § 2. The Treasurer shall give bond with two sureties for twice the amount of money to be in his hands at any time during his term of office, such bond in amount and character to be ap­

330

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

proved by the Presiding Chapter and the General Secretary in writing upon said bond, and the bond deposited with the General Secretary before the funds shall be paid into said Treasurer’s hands. § 3. All moneys for dues, paper, catalogue, and all other accounts, shall be paid at once to the Treasurer, and he shall keep a separate account for each fund in his possession, and shall report to each convention all the financial transactions of the Fraternity. § 4. The Treasurer shall pay out the moneys of the Fra­ ternity only under appropriations made by the Convention, and upon requisitions of the General Secretary, approved by the Presiding Chapter; except that moneys of the paper or the catalogue funds may be paid upon requisitions of the respective editors, or committee approved by the Presiding Chapter or the General Secretary, and without special appropriation. § 5. The annual dues shall be one dollar for every mem­ ber, and shall be paid to the Treasurer by the respective chapters before the first day of February in each year, and the dues of every new member initiated between February 1st and June 30th shall be sent to the Treasurer immediately after his ini­ tiation; provided, that payment of the subscription price of the B e t a T h e t a P i paper for the year shall exempt a member from the annual dues. § 6. All moneys remaining unappropriated at the close of the Annual Convention, and the unexpended balances of all appropriations remaining after the object of the appropriation shall have been attained, shall be credited to a fund to be called the Endowment Fund, at the close of the fiscal year. § 7. The Endowment Fund, together with all gifts, devises and bequests to the same, shall be kept intact and invested by the Treasurer in loans upon real estate worth at least twice the amount of the loan, or in United States bonds, and shall be made to accumulate until such endowment shall amount to ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00), after which the Fraternity may determine what shall be done with the interest on said fund in the same manner as the amendments are now made to the Constitution, but the principal of said fund shall forever remain intact; and

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1877

jjj

the Fraternity may, by a similar method, change the character of the investment, but never to divert it from the objects of its creation.

W. C . R a n so m ,

0.

R. B rou se,

Jno.

I.

C o v in g to n .

ยง 8. All laws in conflict with the provisions of the above seven sections are hereby repealed.

M linutes of tl)e Convention, of 187$ PR O CE ED IN G S

OF

TH E

T H IR T Y -N IN T H

ANNUAL

CON VEN TION OF TH E B E T A T H E T A PI F R A T E R N IT Y 4, 5 a n d 6, 1878.

The Convention was called to order at 10:30 A. M., by Judge Sam’l H. Buskirk, President of Gamma Alumni Chap­ ter, and the address of welcome delivered by the Rev. Dr. L. G. Hay, appropriate responses being made by Bros. Willis C. Ransom and Isaac R. Hitt.

After a song, a temporary organization was effected, with Bro. W. C. Ransom in the Chair and Bro. John S. Goodwin as temporary Secretary.

The following committees were then appointed: On Credentials— Dump Carpenter, Alpha Lambda; Willis O. Robb, Theta; W. T. Hume, Tau. On Permanent Organization— J. A. Young, Alpha Psi; C. S. Finch, Alpha Nu; J. A. Arnold, Pi. The Convention then adjourned till 2 P. M. H

eld

at

I n d ia n a p o l is , I n d ia n a , S e p t e m b e r

3 P. M. The Convention having been called to order by temporary chairman, Bro. Ransom, the report of the Committee on Cred­ entials was submitted: (Vide Exhibit A.) The Committee on Permanent Organization also reported as follows: President— General R. W. Smith, Alpha Alumni.

Vice-President— Dump Carpenter, Alpha Lambda.

Sergeant-at-Arms— Robt. E. Smith, Gamma Alumni.

The report having been adopted, Gen. Smith was intro­ duced to the Convention in a neat speech, by Bro. Ransom, to which he responded briefly, and announced that the Convention was now ready for business.

The following standing committees were appointed: On Constitution and Jurisprudence— Paul Wilcox, D elta; John S. Goodwin, Gamma Alumni; Willis O. Robb, Theta.

C it y C o u n c i l C h a m b e r ,

333

334

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

On Finance— S. G. Boyle, Epsilon; W. S. Lewis, Tau; C. J. Estep, Alpha Lambda.

On Chapters— J. R. Lamar, Psi; Dump Carpenter, Alpha Lambda; M. P. Drury, Epsilon Alumni.

On Necrology— Dr. Parvin, Gamma Alumni; R. F. Pettibone, Chi; M. W. Miller, Delta.

On Next Place of Meeting— 0 . R. Brouse, Alpha Alumni; C. A. Kleeberger, Psi; J. H. Grant, Lambda.

On Orator and Poet for Next Convention— L. G. Hay, Gam­ ma Alumni; Isaac R. Hitt, Alpha Alumni; John I. Covington, Epsilon Alumni.

Miscellaneous Affairs— B. S. Grosscup, Alpha Gamma; Miles Clifford, Alpha Psi; W. A. Foster, Iota.

The following order of business was then adopted: 1. Opening, prayer by Chaplain.

2. Reading and approval of Minutes.

3. Reports of Standing Committees.

4. Reports of Special Committees.

5. Reports of General Officers.

6. Communications.

7. Motions and Resolutions.

8. Miscellaneous Business.

9. Adjournment.

In the absence of Gen. Sec’y Lamar, Bro. John S. Goodwin was instructed to fill his place as Secretary of the Convention.

The following Resolution, offered by Bro. W. C. Ransom, was then adopted: Resolved, That the Committee on Chapters be instructed to report some plan by which the defunct Chapters may be stricken from the Roll of Chapters and the list of their members be transferred to a general roll to be published in the forth­ coming Catalogue.

The Convention then adjourned till 8 P. M. 8 P. M., September 4,1878.

The Convention having been called to order, the report of the Presiding Chapter for the past year was submitted. (Vide Exhibit B.) The report of General Secretary J. R. Lamar was then C it y C o u n c i l C h a m b e r ,

THE^MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

335

submitted together with an appendix upon the defunct chapters prepared by Brother John S. Goodwin. Upon motion, a vote of thanks was tende\ed Brother Goodwin for his labors in the preparation of this\ appendix, which was then ordered to be included in the Geneial Secretary’s Report. (Vide Exhibit C.) Letters from John Reily Knox and Charles H. Hardin, founders of the Fraternity, were read, after which the Con­ vention adjourned till 9 A. M., Thursday.

A. M., September 5 ,1 8 7 8 .

The Convention was called to order and prayer offered by Brother Parr.

While waiting the preparation of reports of committees, the Hon. J. W. Herron, of Cincinnati, formerly of old Alpha Chapter, was introduced and entertained the brethren with some most interesting reminiscences of Betadom in the earliest days.

The subject of honorary membership was here introduced, but upon the suggestion of Brother Wilcox, discussion thereon was postponed till after the hearing of the report from the Com­ mittee on Constitution and Jurisprudence.

A recess of a few minutes was here taken to wait the com­ pletion of a report from the special Committee on Constitution.

Upon the reassembling of the Convention, Brother W. C. Ransom, of the special Committee on Constitution, appointed by the Detroit Convention, submitted the report of that com­ mittee, together with a draft of Constitution prepared by it.

Upon motion, this report and accompanying draft were referred to the standing Committee on Constitution and Jurisprudence.

Upon motion, this special Committee on Constitution was instructed to prepare and submit an additional report on the subject of a General Endowment Fund.

The report of the Visiting Officer, Brother Ransom, was then read and approved. (Vide Exhibit D .)

The following resolution, introduced by Brother Robb, was then adopted: Resolved, That the standing Committee on Constitution and Jurisprudence be instructed to incorporate in its report (by the necessary alteration in the draft of Constitution submitted to C ity C

o u n c il

C ham ber, 9

336

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

it) a plan for strengthening and centralizing official authority, and for a completer consolidation of the general Fraternity government than has been heretofore provided, for.

Upon motion of Brother Brouse, the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That Brother John S. Goodwin, our Temporary Secretary, be hereby appointed Permanent Secretary of this Convention, and that Brother W. O. Robb be appointed Assist­ ant Secretary.

Upon motion, a committee of three, consisting of Brothers John I. Covington, C. J. Seaman and M. P. Drury, was ap­ pointed to investigate the subject of the Fraternity Grand Seal and report thereon.

Convention then adjourned till 2 P. M. P. M., September 6 ,1 8 7 8 .

The Convention having been called to order, on motion of Dr. Hay, Brothers Young and Pettibone were appointed a Committee on Transportation for Friday evening.

The Committee on Orator and Poet, for the coming year, submitted the following report, which was adopted: Orator: P. H. Gillette, Jacksonville, 111.

Alternate: J. C. Young, Danville, K y.

Poet: E. E. Edwards, Lebanon, 111.

Alternate: Earl Cranston, Cincinnati, O. The report of the Editor of the Fraternity Organ was then read and referred to the following Committee on Paper: John A. Robison, M. P. Drury, W. A. Foster.

The standing Committee on Constitution and Jurispru­ dence, to which had been referred the report of the special Com­ mittee on Constitution, then submitted its report. (Vide Ex­ hibit E.) Upon motion, the report was adopted, and the Committee of Incorporation named therein appointed, after which the proposed Constitution was acted upon article by article.

Upon motion, the election of officers for the ensuing year was made the special order for 9 o’clock, A. M., September 6.

The report of General Treasurer, Brother O. R. Brouse, was then read and referred to the Committee on Finance.

C

ity

C

o u n c il

C hamber, 2

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

337

The Convention then adjourned till 9 o’clock the following morning.

C i t y C o u n c il C h a m b e r , 9% A. M., September 6, 1878.

The Convention was called to order by President Smith.

The attendance being small, the election of officers was post­ poned and a report from the local Committee on Banquet listened to.

Upon motion of Brother Ransom, the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare and submit to the next Convention a form of initiation and other ceremonies to be adopted for uniform use among the chapters, with instructions to incorporate in the same such portions of the Constitution now in force as may be adopted for the purpose and desirable to be perpetuated in that Convention.

Brothers Ransom, Robb and Grant were appointed as such a committee.

Upon motion, the hour of twelve, noon, was set apart for the explanation of the unwritten work of the Fraternity.

The special order for 9 o’clock— the election of general officers— was then taken up. The election resulted as follows: Presiding Chapter— Alpha Gamma, Springfield, Ohio.

General Secretary— E. J. Brown, Harrison, Ohio.

General Treasurer— O. R. Brouse, Chicago, Illinois.

Editor— Geo. C. Rankin, Monmouth, Illinois.

Historiographer— John S. Goodwin, Indianapolis, Ind. Upon motion, Brother John I. Covington was made a committee of one to superintend the preparation of the Grand Seal, with instructions to act in conjunction with the General Secretary in making such changes in the present design thereof as may seem advisable, and to draw on the General Treasurer for the amount of expense incurred.

Brother 0 . R. Brouse, of the Catalogue Committee, then submitted the report of that committee. (Vide Exhibit F.) Upon motion, Brother J. A. Burhans was added to that committee.

Brother Burhans, who has been acting as Catalogue Agent,

338

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

then made a detailed report of the work done by each chapter toward the publication of the new catalogue.

The committee on the next place of meeting reported in favor of holding the next Convention at Baltimore, Md., on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of the first week in September, 1879.

Upon motion, the report was amended to read “ Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.”

Amendments were offered substituting the names “ Lexing­ ton, V a .,” “ St. Louis, M o.” and “ Cincinnati, O.,” for the words “ Baltimore, M d.” Ballot was taken on the last amendment, which was carried, whereupon the announcement was made that the Fortieth Annual Convention of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the first week in September, 1879.

The report of the Committee on Chapters, indorsing the report of the General Secretary, was then adopted.

Upon motion of Brother Ransom, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted.

Whereas, This Convention has learned that Dr. S. H. Collins, of Alpha Eta chapter and Epsilon Alumni, has volun­ teered his services as a physician and gone to Memphis, Tenn., to take care of those dying of yellow fever; Resolved, That we recognize in this act that spirit of humane bravery and love which we boast as the bright star of our motto, and that we extend to our brother our brotherly love and wishes for his preservation in the midst of death that is about him, expressing the hope that he may be spared many years to receive the homage due his noble heroism; Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Brother Collins.

On motion, Brother Willis O. Robb was ordered to prepare for publication the proceedings of this Convention, including the oration and poem.

On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered Brothers Poppleton and Black for their respective productions last evening in the Masonic Hall.

On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered the Mayor and Common Council of the C ity of Indianapolis for favors rendered

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

the Convention, including the use of the C ity Council Chambers for its sessions.

On motion, these two resolutions were ordered printed in the morning papers.

On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered Gamma Alumni chapter for the magnificent reception afforded the Convention, and for their untiring efforts to promote, in all possible ways, the welfare and comfort of delegates.

On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered President R. W. Smith, for the able and courteous manner in which he has pre­ sided over the Convention.

On motion, the following resolution was adopted: Whereas, During the past year, the B e t a T h e t a P i , the official organ of the Fraternity, has been conducted with special ability and in a manner that has reflected great credit upon the Fraternity.

Resolved, That the thanks of the Fraternity be tendered to Geo. C. Rankin, Editor-in-Chief, to whose ability and earnestness the success of the paper is due.

On motion, a special vote of thanks was tendered our hon­ ored Brother, Major Willis C. Ransom, for his untiring efforts for the welfare of the order at all times and in all ways.

The special order for 12 o’clock (instructions on secret work) was then called for and taken up, Brother Wilcox officiating.

A pleasant season was then spent in comparing chapter workings and ceremonies.

Upon motion, the General Secretary was instructed to inform Alpha Sigma that her charter must be surrendered unless her internal difficulties can be immediately adjusted.

Upon motion, Tau chapter was requested to investigate into the history of her initiation of Messrs. Merrill and Bassett, now resident in Indianapolis, and report to Gamma Alumni chapter whether or not those gentlemen are now bona fide members of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity.

Upon motion, the committee appointed to investigate into the manner of the establishment of Alpha Phi chapter, at Blacks­ burg, was discharged.

The report of the Committee on Badges was then read and reported. (Vide Exhibit G.)

340

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

The report of the Committee on Necrology was then read and adopted. (Vide Exhibit H .)

On motion, the chairman of the Committee on Badges was authorized to draw from the Fraternity treasury a sum not to exceed $50 to defray expenses incurred.

The Convention then adjourned till 2 o’clock P. M. C ity C

o u n c il

C hamber, 3

P. M., September

6,

1878.

Reports from the Committees on Finance (Vide Exhibit I) and on Endowment (Vide Exhibit K ), were read and adopted.

On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered our Brother, Captain S. H. Winsor, for his valuable service in securing special rates from the various railway lines centering in Indianapolis.

On motion of Brother Robb, the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That the thanks of the members of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, in Convention assembled, on behalf of all mem­ bers of the Fraternity everywhere be most heartily tendered Mr. Jas. C. Macy, of Cleveland, O., for the series of beautiful waltzes dedicated by him to the Fraternity.

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent Mr. Macy.

The special committee appointed by the Chair to report a resolution of thanks to the various railroads centering in Indian­ apolis, brought in the following, which was adopted and ordered printed in the morning papers: H all

of th e

B eta T

heta

Pi

C

o n v e n tio n ,

I n d i a n a p o l i s , I n d .,

September 6, 1878.

The “ Beta Theta P i” Convention assembled at Indianapolis, as above, desires to express to the several Railroad Companies whose lines center at the C ity of Indianapolis, and to the gentle­ manly officers who represent the same, its high appreciation of the gentlemanly and courteous treatment extended to its members in the concession of reduced rates coming to and going from the Annual Convention. Gentlemen, may you find easy grades all through the run of your lives, and the brightest of golden ties be

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

341

your portion until you are at last safely switched off for the yard of your final rest.

Courteously yours, by order of the Convention, R. W. S m i t h , President.

J o h n S . G o o d w in , Secretary.

To the Managers and General Passenger Agents of the Pittsburgh, Cin. &f St. Louis R. R.; the Cleveland, Columbus, Cin. & Ind. R. R.; the Vandalia, Terre Haute & Ind. R. R.; the Jeff., Mad. & Ind. R. R.; the Ind., Bloomington & Western R. R.; the Ind., Cin. & St. Louis R. R.; the Peru & Ind. R. R.; and the Ind. & St. Louis R. R. After half a dozen stirring songs under Brother Seaman’s leadership, the Convention was declared adjourned sine die.

342

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

EXHIBITS E X H IB IT A R e p o r t o f t h e C o m m it t e e o n C r e d e n t i a l s I n d i a n a p o l i s , I n d ., September 4, 1878.

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Credentials beg leave to submit the following report: Delegates present: Delta, Paul Wilcox; Epsilon, S. G. Boyle; Iota, W. A. Foster; Theta, W. O. Robb; Kappa, A. J. Hawk; Lambda, J. H. Grant; Pi, J. A. Arnold; Tau, W. S. Lewis; Chi, R. F. Pettibone; Psi, C. A. Kleeberger; Alpha Gamma, B. S. Grossup; Alpha Lambda, Dump Carpenter; Alpha Nu, C. S. Finch; Alpha Psi, Miles Clifford; Alpha Alumni, O. R. Brouse; Gamma Alumni, John S. Goodwin; Epsilon Alumni, M. P. Drury.

Members, not delegates, present: A. J. Poppleton, Omaha, Neb.; W. C. Ransom, Port Huron, Mich.; J. A. Burhans, Chicago, 111.; Sidney Thomas, Chicago, 111.; Cyrus D. Roys, Chicago, 111.; Isaac R. Hitt, Chicago, 111.; H. R. Bryant, Valparaiso, Ind.; C. J. Estep, Cadiz, O.; John R. Shannon, Delaware, O .; James N. Barnes, Delaware, O.; Willis Van Devanter, Marion, Ind.; D. A. Garwood, Cassopolis, Mich.; A. C. Scott, Lawrence, Kan.; W. T. Hume, Lima, Ind.; C. E. Needham, Newcastle, Ind.; Jas. A. Young, Irvington, Ind.; Ben. F. Young, Hillsboro, 111.; J. H. Howard, Franklin, Ind.; U. M. Thom as,----- , M inn.; Chas. A. Martin, Greencastle, Ind.; Chas. R. Barnes, Madison, Ind.; R. L. Thomas, Harrison, O.; W. V. Rooker, Noblesville, Ind.; Otto Gresham, Indianapolis, Ind.; E. J. Brown, Harrison, O.; Frank Palmer, Danville, 111.; J. S. McLain, Kansas City, Mo.; John B. Mansfield, Springfield, O.; H. A. L. Markel, Springfield, O.; M. W. Miller, La Fayette, Ind.; Jas. A. New, Greenfield, Ind.; N. Van Horn, Indianapolis, Ind.; C. P. Hendershot, La Porte, Ind.; M. J. Thomson,----- ,

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

343

Ind.; C. R. Hammond, Greencastle, Ind.; F. C. Davis, Madi­ son, Ind.; Frank Hood, Madison, Ind.; J. H. Prugh, Springfield, O .; N. L. Wray, Greenfield, Ind.; G. W. Switzer, Otterbein, Ind.; Wm. Abernathy, Leavenworth, Kan.; W. D. Parr, Fort Wayne, Ind.; Vincent Clifford, Indianapolis, Ind.; J. C. White, Crawfordsville, Ind.; C. E. Tabor, Crawfordsville, Ind.; A. N. Grant, Kokomo, Ind.; I. W. Joyce, Greencastle, Ind.; Reid Carpenter, Mansfield, O.; Robt. F. Kerr, Kertland, Ind.; T. L. Green, Rushville, Ind.; John A. Hawkins, Greencastle, Ind.; A. A. Washburn, Greencastle, Ind.; J. R. McKee, Richmond, Ind.; S. V. Willson, Lawrenceburg, Ind.; E. C. Miller, Franklin, Ind.; P. A. Folcheimer, Covington, O.; W. M. McCoy, Greensburg, Ind.; W. B. McClintock, Peru, Ind.; Geo. W. Royce, Peru, Ind.; D. R. Bishop, Lebanon, Ind.; E. E. Edwards, Evanston, 111.; Frank J. Hall, Rushville, Ind.; A. C. Hamilton, Greenfield, Ind.; O. J. Dodds, Cincinnati, O.; A. D. Wray, Shelbyville, Ind.; ----- . Hill, Shelbyville, Ind.; Mark Shryer, Terre Haute, Ind.; J. L. Anderson, Terre Haute, Ind.; J. M. Hughes, Richmond, Ind.; J. J. Shields, Danville, Ind.; L. S. Smith, Coatesville, Ind.; Frank Walker, Anderson, Ind.; H. E. Insley, Leavenworth, Kan; G. A. Thornton, Crawfordsville, Ind.; J. W. Herron, Cincinnati, O.; ----- Thompson, Cincinnati, 0 .; Jas. I. Cov­ ington, Cincinnati, O.; J. A. Herron, Danville, K y; C. J. Leaman, Cleveland, 0 .; C. A. Cole, Peru, Ind.; T. F. Rose, Muncie, Ind.; C. W. Henderson, Bloomington, Ind. Besides a number not yet registered, and over forty resident Greeks of Gamma Alumni.

Respectfully, D ump C a r p e n te r , W. T. H u m e , W. 0 . R o b b , -------Committee E X H IB IT B R

eport

of t h e

P r esid in g C h a p t e r

To the Honorable Convention oj the Beta Theta Pi, to meet in Indianapolis, Indiana, September 4, 5 and 6, 1878: Your Presiding Chapter presents the following report of its transactions during the past year: From Lambda chapter we received a petition for the estab­

344

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

lishment of a chapter at the Johns Hopkins University, at Baltimore, Md. The petition, being regular in form, was ap­ proved by the Presiding Chapter, and sent to General Secretary J. R. Lamar.

The General Secretary, on collecting the votes, reported that th e required number of chapters had voted in the affirmative.

A chapter was ordered to be established, and a charter for­ warded: the chapter being called Alpha Chi. Alpha Chi was •duly established and charter issued bearing date January 1, 1878.

During the month of October, 1877, your Presiding Chapter received a petition from Kenyon College, Gambier, O., for the •establishment of a chapter at that place. After investigation, the petition was approved by the Presiding Chapter, and the General Secretary was requested to submit the proposition to the vote of the chapters.

The General Secretary reported, on collecting the votes, that the Fraternity was averse to the proposition.

A proposition for establishing a chapter at Butler University, Irvington, Indiana, was more favorably received. This petition was presented in February, 1878, and approved by the Presiding Chapter. The constitutional number of chapters having voted in the affirmative, the chapter was established March 28,1878, and called Alpha Psi. The fourth petition was from the University of California, Berkeley, California. This was received and approved March 9, 1878, and forwarded to the General Secretary.

In due time a sufficient number of chapters voting in the affirmative, the chapter was ordered to be established, and a charter forwarded to John S. Goodwin, at Indianapolis, with instructions to have the petitioners initiated and the chapter, when founded, called Alpha Omega. Just before the adjourn­ ment of the Presiding Chapter for the year, however, word was received that the charter had been withheld for good and sufficient reasons. These reasons not being reported and there not being time to investigate the matter, it will be satisfactorily explained by Brother John S. Goodwin, of Gamma Alumni chapter, to your honorable body.

The last regularly presented petition was from Marietta College, Marietta, 0 ., for a chapter of Beta Theta Pi. This

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

345

petition not receiving very strong support from the members of the Fraternity in that vicinity, it being represented that all available men were taken by local Fraternities, your Presiding Chapter took the responsibility of disapproving of the propo­ sition.

The B e t a T h e t a Pi, the organ of the Fraternity, has, in great measure, supplanted chapter correspondence; yet corres­ pondence has been carried on with many of the chapters, and the letters thus received indicate the continued growth and prosperity of the Fraternity.

We desire to call the attention of the Convention to the condition of a few of the chapters: First: Alpha Sigma. During the latter part of the year a request was made by Alpha Sigma to the Presiding Chapter in reference to a matter which was beyond the power of the Pre­ siding Chapter to effect, v iz.: the settling of a difficulty which had arisen in that chapter. The best that we could do was to advise and attempt to conciliate. Correspondence developed the fact that the chapter was rent by a feud which it was diffi­ cult to understand and still more difficult to heal. The Presiding Chapter thought that the matter had better be presented to the Convention by both factions, and so recommended.

Reports from Alpha Tau and Alpha Alpha are not very encouraging. The former is in an exceedingly weak state.

The latter, as reported, has been compelled to yield to the force of college discipline. Both need encouragement, and are entitled to the support of the Fraternity at large.

Thus, Brothers, in a plain, unvarnished way, your Executive Chapter presents the advances and reverses of “ the dear old mother of us all,” with an earnest desire always to have her interests advanced, and cherishing a hope for her continued prosperity.

We are, yours in----- et----A. A. F r a z e r , President.

C . J. E s t e p , Recording Secretary.

D u m p C a r p e n t e r , Corresponding Secretary.

W o o s t e r , O., June 21, 1878.

N o t e .— The explanation by Brother Goodwin of the non­

346

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

establishment of the chapter at the University of California, referred to above, is as follows: During the progress of corres­ pondence with the petitioners for this chapter and with certain brethren in San Francisco who had volunteered to officiate in the initiation thereof, Brother G. discovered that at least one of the signatures to the petition had been made in bad faith, and so determined to forward no papers until an investiga­ tion could be made. This investigation, left to Brother Hume of Tau chapter, has not yet been completed.

E X H IB IT C R epo rt of th e G en er a l Secretary

To the Thirty-ninth Annual Convention of the Beta Theta P i Fraternity, to be held in Indianapolis, Ind., September 4, 5 and 6, 1878: Brothers:— You, as representatives of the Fraternity, have great reason to be congratulated upon the widespread and general prosperity of the Order. Except in a few chapters, at weak colleges, success has been the universal result during the past year; and that success has been such as to show that it is permanent and real, and that, as a consequence, future prosperity, greater than that of the past, awaits our Beta Theta Pi. The following chapters are reported as now in “ Prime” condition: Alpha Alpha, owing to anti-fraternity laws, has been forced to give up her charter.

Alpha Iota has been virtually dead for several years, but is now first reported as such.

Alpha Tau is in a similar state.

With one other exception, I believe it can be truthfully said that every chapter has prospered during the last year— and of this we should be proud.

Only two charters have been granted: but these two have created chapters at institutions of such standing as to warrant the hope that the Fraternity will never regret its action.

Alpha Chi, at Johns Hopkins University, ought to succeed with the assistance of our Baltimore Alumni and the choice of

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

347

much good material in the University out of which to make Betas.

Alpha Psi, at Butler University, Irvington, Ind., is also a promising chapter. It will doubtless be largely represented at your Convention and speak for itself.

As General Secretary, and as one who has had three years of active connection with the Fraternity— who has seen nearly all of the general and chapter work, and become familiar with the modes of conducting the business of our Order, I beg leave to suggest that your body take some measures toward creating a head— a power for the time, independent of all save the General Convention.

As it is now, with large and constantly increasing numbers, we neither have one in authority, nor several, who, taken together, have more than the power to conduct routine work. In voting upon petitions for charters, our machinery is unusually clumsy and of considerable expense. The Presiding Chapter, General Secretary and Chiefs are mere figure-heads, and have no author­ ity whatever. If power were consolidated, I believe the result would contribute greatly to the general prosperity of the Fra­ ternity. But this is no place for argument; I desire simply to offer this as a suggestion.

In conclusion, I ask permission to include the following report on the chapters as legitimately a part of m y own report.

Respectfully submitted, J . R . L a m a r .* R epo rt on C h a pters

Gamma, established at Washington and Jefferson College, Pa., in 1842, and with a total membership of over 200, heads the list of live chapters. Initiating two last year, she had a total of seven, five of whom expect to return.

Gamma took her share of honors, Brother Clark distinguish­ ing himself and the chapter. She has ten alumni in town, seven subscribers to paper and catalogue. Rivals— Phi Kappa Psi, Phi Gamma Sigma, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Delta Kappa. Corresponding Secretary for next year, P. M. P. McKennan, Washington, Pa. Delta, founded at Asbury University, in 1845, is, as ever, a * Lamar was one of our great secretaries. He died in 1916, after a bril­ liant career while a Justice of the U. S. Supreme Court.

348

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

most magnificent chapter. As Brother Wilcox would say, Delta “ stacks u p ” well. Total membership, 261. In college, the past year, twenty-six, of whom fifteen were enrolled during the year.

There are sixteen alumni in town, twenty-one subscribers to the paper, thirty to the catalogue, fifteen men expect to be in college.

George Switzer, Corresponding Secretary. Rivals— Phi Gamma Delta, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Phi Kappa Psi, Sigma Chi. Epsilon, founded in 1848, is a live, go-ahead, first-class chapter. During the past year she initiated six and had fifteen loyal Greeks. Nine will return next year.

Her total membership is fifty, with six Alumni in town, and eleven subscribers to the paper. Letters may be sent next year to J. Y . Craft, Danville, K y.

Rivals, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi, and Delta Kappa.

Epsilon’s prospects are fine. A fine chapter-hall has been pro­ cured and will make her stronger still. She gets a full share of honors.

Zeta is one of our solid chapters. During the past term, fourteen were in her ranks— five being new initiates; eight expect to return. Zeta’s full roll numbers 112, seven of which number are resident alumni.

She reports ten subscribers to catalogue and eleven to the paper. Prospects first-class. Rivals, Phi Kappa Psi, Sigma Chi, Chi Phi, and Phi Gamma Delta. A. A. Campbell, HampdenSidney, Prince Edward, Va., will answer Beta letters.

Theta is still the booming chapter of yore. After initiating six, she had eleven men last year, and expects seven of them back. Her total is 182— six of them in town. Nine subscribers to paper, twenty to catalogue and more coming. Date of founda­ tion, April 17, 1853. Rivals, Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Kappa Psi, Chi Phi, and Sigma Chi. Clarence T. Brown is her Corresponding Secretary for this year. The chapter gets two society valedic­ torians, one middle oration, one essay, one editor of paper for the past year, and two for the coming year, one Class Day Vale­ dictorian, one Class Day Historian.

Brother Robb writes: “ It has been our aim to make our literary and social relations keep pace with our excellence in collegiate work. We want our men to be not only good students, but men all over."

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

349

Iota, at Hanover College, during the past year, had twelve— initiating three. She looks for six to come back and resume the fight against Delta Tau Delta, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Gamma Delta. Iota has 144 Sons, sixty of whom subscribe for the catalogue, and six for the paper. Corresponding Secre­ tary for next year, M. B. Sturges.

Kappa, founded in 1841, with the name of Delta Prime (?), at University of Ohio, and named Kappa in 1854, had twelve men last year, initiating five. Total membership 139. Catalogue subscribers, thirty. Paper subscribers, seven. Twelve alumni in town. Rivals, Delta Tau Delta, Phi Delta Theta. Ten men will be back next year. Corresponding Secretary for the year, R. N. Wilson.

Lambda has done well. Organized in 1845, and becoming one of the sleepers in 1865, awakening in 1876. She has done wonderfully to be able to say that last year she had fifteen— initiating six— expects twelve back next year, and has a total roll of 103. She takes twenty catalogues and five papers. Resi­ dent alumni, three. Rivals, Chi Psi, Alpha Delta Phi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Zeta Psi, Sigma Phi, Psi Upsilon, Phi Delta Theta, and Phi Kappa Psi. Corresponding Secretary next year, John H. Grant.

Omicron, at the University of Virginia, is a chapter to be proud of. With thirteen rivals— Chi Phi, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Kappa Epsilon, Phi Gamma Delta, Zeta Psi, Delta Psi, Theta Delta Chi, Phi Kappa Sigma, Kappa Alpha, Pi Kappa Alpha, Alpha Tau Omega, Phi Delta Theta. She had twelve— initiated three. All of Omicron’s boys stand high in the estima­ tion of those who know them. Our brilliant Brother J. W. Garnett will do the Beta writing next year. Brother Coke led the law class of 108. Total membership 197. Expects five back next year. Founded 1850.

P i initiated five, had seventeen during the year, with a total of 185. Twelve will return next year. Pi takes nine papers and fif­ teen catalogues. A live chapter and a good Beta stronghold.

D. C. Bunton is her knight of the quill next year.

Rho, founded in 1856, and the organizer of many other chap­ ters, had ten last year. Initiated three. Expects six back to fight Sigma Alpha Sigma, Delta Psi, Delta Kappa Epsilon,

350

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

Alpha Tau Omega, Phi Gamma Delta, Sigma Chi. Total mem­ bership, eighty-seven. Rho is a good, solid chapter and has had some fine men in her halls. John L. Campbell will do the corres­ pondence next year.

Tau, at Wabash College, put through two men last year and had nine altogether. Eight will come back. Eight alumni in town. Three subscribers to paper. Total membership, 103.

Prospects, first-rate. Rivals— Phi Gamma Delta, Phi Delta Theta, Phi Kappa Psi, Delta Tau Delta. Corresponding Secre­ tary, Geo. Vinnedge. Tau was founded in 1845.

Chi is sub-rosa, but nevertheless she had the audacity to initiate three, and had eleven men during the year, of whom seven will return. Total list, forty-eight.

Psi, at Bethany College, has fifteen; initiated seven; ex­ pects from four to ten to return. Total, forty-eight. Correspond­ ing Secretary, F. T. Smith. Eight take the paper and fifteen the catalogue. Rivals— Delta Tau Delta, Phi Kappa Psi. Brothers Smith (B. L.) and Hayden graduated, the former being Class Historian and the latter Society Valedictorian. Psi can be one of our strongest chapters.

Alpha Alpha had to succumb to Anti-Frat. laws. She had seven when she disbanded— three new initiates. Total list, fifty-six. Twenty-two subscribers to paper, fifteen to catalogue.

Organized in 1865.

Alpha Gamma, after initiating five had twenty on her list last year. Fourteen will return. Total membership, seventy.

Twenty-two subscribers to paper, thirty-five to catalogue. In the past eleven years this chapter has had nine “ first honor” men. Brother Culler takes the honors this year. The college paper is in the hands of Betas. Chapter organized January 18, 1867. A first-class chapter. J. B. Mansfield will attend to correspondence next year.

Alpha Delta is a chapter for anybody to be proud of. Twelve men during the year, two initiated; eight expect to return.

Total, forty-five. Eleven subscribers to the paper and ten to catalogue. R. E. Lewis, Corresponding Secretary. This bids fair to become one of our best chapters.

Alpha Epsilon is also a good chapter. Twelve men last year; eight initiated; ten expect to return. Total list, seventy-two.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

351

Three subscribers to paper and twelve to catalogue. J. H. McKibben, Corresponding Secretary. Rivals— Phi Delta Theta, Delta Tau Delta.

Alpha Theta, at V. M. I., had eleven after taking in four good men. Nine will return. Sixty-eight initiated since organization.

T. R. Marshall (V. M. I.), Lexington, Va., will answer letters.

Twenty-five subscribers to catalogue. Two new Professors in the Institution are members of Alpha Theta. Brother Wade is one of the captains— highest office attainable. Winn, Marshall and others have officers’ positions. Brother Withers is to be the “ medal” man, and altogether this is a fine chapter.

Alpha Iota must have its obituary written. It has died for want of material and because of the weakness of the college.

Alpha Kappa had fifteen men last year, initiating four.

Expects seven back. Thirty-four have joined since organization.

Eight take the paper and fifteen the catalogue. E. T. Settle will act as correspondent this year. This is a fine chapter and with excellent prospects.

Alpha Lambda has been not only a good chapter but a good Presiding Chapter, and has done well throughout the year in the work assigned her. Eighteen members, six new initiates; twelve will return. Total membership, fifty-five. Fourteen take the paper. Brother Dump Carpenter will act as Corresponding Secretary again the coming year. The Fraternity did wisely in selecting this chapter to preside during the past year.

Alpha Nu, away out in Kansas, showed that it was alive by initiating nine, having a total of sixteen. Of these, fourteen will return. Entire membership, forty-one; four take the paper; six the catalogue. S. M. Smith, Corresponding Secretary for the coming year.

Alpha X i seems to be one of our very best chapters— reliable, solid and enthusiastic. Thirteen last year answered to her call, five being new initiates; six expect to return. Total membership, thirty-one; fifteen take paper; fourteen catalogue.

J. F. Littleton, Corresponding Secretary.

Rivals— Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi, Phi Kappa Psi. Alpha P i had fifteen men. Initiated six; ten likely to return.

Total membership, forty-three. Prospects good. Organized

352

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

June 14, 1873. It is a prospering scion of the Beta house. Rival — Phi Kappa Psi. Corresponding Secretary, F. K. Conover.

Alpha Rho is correctly described by one of her men, as being a ‘ ‘Red H o t” chapter. Organized July 3, 1873. Total member­ ship, thirty-six. Three initiated last year; fifteen in chapter last year; twelve expect to return; six take the paper, and ten the catalogue. Rivals— Sigma Chi and Phi Kappa Psi. F. D. Sheets, Corresponding Secretary.

Alpha Sigma had trouble in her ranks of eleven men, owing to Literary Society politics. She initiated four, but expects only two to return. Her total is forty-nine. Brother E. A. Jaggard will attend to letters next year, and see if anything can be done to get Alpha Sigma out of her trouble. This chapter was founded in 1874.

Alpha Tau, founded in 1875, has had thirteen members, but is now nearly or completely dead.

Alpha Upsilon, away off at the “ H ub”— by herself, so to speak— makes one of the best records for this year. She ought to be proud, and the Fraternity of her, for the good work. Organ­ ized November, 1876, her total membership is twenty-four.

This year, nineteen were in the chapter; eleven initiated, and thirteen expected back; fourteen take the paper, and her entire catalogue assessment paid. The honors taken and positions held by her sons are too numerous to mention, and for further information concerning this sprightly young Beta chapter, you are referred to L. C. Hascall, Corresponding Secretary for next year.

Alpha Phi took honors and medals last year beside one barbarian. Total for the session, seven, five of whom will return; twenty on roll. Alpha Phi has done well in face of strong oppo­ sition. Corresponding Secretary, M. C. Eure.

Alpha P si started with seven new initiates and one old Beta. All of them expect to return and prove that they can make this one of the best chapters in our ranks. She has done well already, and will do better. J. A. Young, Corresponding Secre* tary.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

353

*A p p e n d ix o n D e f u n c t C h a p t e r s P r e p a r e d by

B r o t h e r J . S. G o o d w in

Alpha Prime, founded in 1839, at Miami University, Oxford, O., was obliged to suspend in 1872, on account of the closing of the college.

Hopes are entertained that our Alpha chapter may be re­ established in a few years, with the college in a prosperous con­ dition. Total membership, about 170.

Beta Prime was established at the Cincinnati Law School in 1840, and lived but a year. It numbered thirteen, and among them are some who have gained a national reputation. One or two Betas will be in attendance there next year, and if thought advisable, will take steps toward its rebuilding.

Beta Second was established at the Western Reserve College, Hudson, O., in 1842, since which time over 100 were initiated.

In 1875 it was deemed expedient to expel the chapter, as such, from the Fraternity for disloyal intentions, and several of the alumni were also dropped from the rolls at the same time. Owing to the condition of the college, no attempt has been made to select a chapter to fill its place.

Epsilon Prime was established at Transylvania University, Lexington, K y., and lived some five years, initiating twenty-one members. The college then becoming embarrassed, the chapter was transferred to Centre College, Danville, K y., where it still thrives.

Zeta Prime was established at Harvard University, in 1843, by six worthy men, but was forced to suspend the same year, owing to the passage of strict anti-fraternity laws, which still exist.

Eta Prime was established in 1852, at the University of North Carolina, and had initiated forty-six men when the war between the Greeks put an end to the college. The institution is re­ building and will soon be ready for the re-establishment of Eta. Theta Prime was established at the College of New Jersey, Princeton, in 1843, and numbered sixteen, but was killed two years later by anti-fraternity laws.

Iota Prime was established at Williams College, Williamstown, Mass., in 1847, and numbered eight members. It was *See page 384.

354

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

unable to cope with the monied fraternities of the East, Beta Theta Pi being then in her infancy, and so suspended after a year’s trial. Almost every one of its charter members have attained eminence in the world; and General Robt. W. Smith, of Chicago, represents it in this Convention.

M u Prime was established at Cumberland University, in 1854, and has had over 100 members. Prof. R. V. Foster writes: “ Mu went down several years ago, merely because all her mem­ bers happened to graduate at the same, time, and no one hap­ pened to come in the following year to revive it. There is no reason why the chapter might not be revived, providing some members of the Fraternity from elsewhere could come and take the work up. M y own position in the University faculty will not permit me to be a leader in the matter. One or two other frater­ nities are represented.”

Here is work for the Fraternity, for Mu was long one of our best Southern chapters.

N u Prime is consolidated with Gamma, owing to the union of the two colleges; and as “ Gamma,” sends in her report.

X i Prime was established in 1855, at Knox College, Gales­ burg, 111., and died in 1873, from lack of material in the college.

Its members number over seventy-five, and it will be revived as soon as the condition of the college will warrant.

Sigma Prime was established at the Illinois College, Jack­ sonville, 111., in 1856, and died in 1863, from an influx of the lower class of students, principally foreigners. Its members number twenty-seven.

Upsilon Prime was established at the University of South Carolina, in 1858, and after a prosperous start and a year of success, having taken in eleven members, it was forced to sus­ pend on account of the beginning of hostilities between North and South. It is ready for a new start.

Phi Prime, at Davidson College, Mecklenburg, N. C., was established in the same year, and died from the same cause as Upsilon, but it lived till 1862, and took in twenty members.

Nearly all of our Southern chapters can be revived at an early date.

Omega Prime was established in the Naval Academy, New­ port, R. I., in 1863, with six members. Three more were ini­

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

355

tiated in the next two years, but owing to passage of laws for­ bidding secret societies in Government institutions, our Omega joined hands with our Alpha chapter and together they sleep in peace.

Alpha Beta Prime was established at the Iowa State Uni­ versity, Iowa City, in 1866, and died in 1874, having in all over forty members. A t the time of its death it numbered fifteen men, but owing to the fact that one man had been admitted who was uncongenial to the others, and was extremely devoted to attending all meetings and otherwise making himself important, the other members allowed the chapter to die.

Alpha Zeta Prime was founded at Chicago University, 111., in 1869, but the whole chapter was expelled a few years later for disloyal intentions toward the Fraternity, the condition of the college not being such as to warrant its replacement there.

Alpha Eta Prime was established at Denison University, Granville, O., in 1868, but was killed in 1877 by anti-fraternity laws.

Alpha M u Prime was established a few years ago in Howard College, Marion, Alabama, and forced to suspend in 1876 by the passage of anti-fraternity laws.

Alpha Omicron was established in 1873 and is flourishing yet, in Trinity College, Tehuacana, Texas, and despite the long removal from intercourse and association with sister chapters, her record is a worthy one.

Kappa Prime was founded at Brown University, R. I., about 1848, and was compelled to leave as a chapter on account of anti­ fraternity laws. It went en masse to Williams College and joined Iota Prime, with whose history its subsequent career is merged.

E X H IB IT D R e p o r t o f t h e V is it in g O f f ic e r

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The undersigned, who was kindly appointed your Visiting Officer for the year just terminated, begs leave to report that he has been unable to perform the duties of the position with any degree of credit to himself, or as he had hoped to do when he consented to serve you in that capacity. But in the pressure of

356

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

business incidental to the laborious life he leads, he has found it simply impossible to visit the numerous chapters, as it would have afforded infinite pleasure to do. Especially was it his desire to visit the Southern and Eastern chapters, who, separated as they are from the older chapters at the West, have seen so little of the brothers who have them, nevertheless, in perpetual and most fraternal remembrance. The only chapters officially visited during the year have been Alpha Nu at Lawrence, Kansas, and the rehabilitated Lambda at Ann Arbor, which, with twelve worthy, enthusiastic brothers, open the work for the next Uni­ versity year. The condition of those chapters has been so fully recited by your General Secretary, that further comment is probably unnecessary.

Hoping that the coming year will secure for the Fraternity the services of some brother who will perform the duties of visit­ ing officer in a more faithful manner than he of the last year has been able to do, he returns to the Convention his thanks for the kindly confidence expressed in making him Visiting Officer for the past year, and his official commission, with the hope that his failure to call upon every chapter of the good old society will be overlooked as the result of circumstances he could not control.

W. C . R a n s o m , Visiting Officer.

E X H IB IT E R e p o r t o f S t a n d i n g C o m m it t e e

on

C o n s t it u t io n a n d J u r is p r u d e n c e

To the Thirty-ninth Annual Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Constitution and Jurisprudence, to which was referred the report of the special committee appointed by the District Convention, begs leave to submit the following report: We recommend the adoption of said report, with the addi­ tions and alterations made therein by us. We further recommend the appointment of a committee to draw up articles of Incor­ poration, as provided for in said report— said committee to consist of Brothers Hon. John W. Herron, Hon. Irving B. Wright, and Hon. Ozro J. Dodds, of Cincinnati, O.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

357

We further recommend that the proposed Constitution, as altered and amended, be read before this Convention and dis­ cussed, article by article, and then printed, together with its accompanying memorial from the special committee, and sub­ mitted to the chapters for their consideration and for action upon the same by the Convention of 1879.

P a u l W il c o x , W il l is O . R o b b , J o h n S. G o o d w i n ,

Committee.

E X H IB IT F R epo rt

of

the

C o m m it t e e

on

C atalogue

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your Committee on Catalogue would respectfully report that we have to our credit in the General Fraternity Treasury $593 of the $900 thought to be necessary for the publication. In addition, we think we can get, upon calling for it, $150 more.

But we lack lists, armorial designs and money from some of the chapters, and without these we cannot publish again a perfect catalogue.

Brother J. A. Burhans was requested by our Committee, and at our request, was, by the Presiding Chapter and General Secretary, empowered to collect the funds and prepare the lists for publication. He has done an earnest and faithful work, and we refer you to him for a fuller and more definite report of the present condition of the enterprise.

We respectfully request this Convention to add Brother Burhans to our committee.

W. C . R a n s o m , O. R . B rou se,

Committee.

I n d i a n a p o l i s , I n d .,

September

6,

1878.

358

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

E X H IB IT G R e p o r t o p C o m m it t e e o n B a d g e s

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The committee to which was referred the subject of Fra足 ternity Insignia, at the last Annual Convention, respectfully submit the following report: Owing to his facilities for carrying out the work and his experience as the designer of our present badge, your committee delegated to our Brother, Major W. C. Ransom, the authority to superintend the preparation of sample badges to submit to the present Convention.

After several trials, attended with considerable labor and expense, he has prepared a die from which M. L. Smith & Co., of Detroit, Michigan, have manufactured a sample badge which your committee herewith submit to the inspection of the Con足 vention.

We would call attention to a new pattern for alumni badges, designed by the same Brother. The particulars concerning it can be obtained from him.

Through the Presiding Chapter, J. F. Newman, of New York, has placed in the hands of your committee a sample case of four badges which we also submit to the inspection of the Con足 vention.

The committee have also received a bid from the firm of Cowell Bros., Cleveland, Ohio, but owing to the fact that they were solicited too late to furnish samples, we cannot speak of their workmanship, but their prices are lower than those of their com足 petitors.

After carefully examining the samples presented for the inspection of the committee, we take pleasure in recommending the perfection and durability of the workmanship shown in the sample of M. L. Smith & Co. For beauty of finish, however, the samples submitted by J. F. Newman are superior, though less perfect in workmanship. Yet, as this defect cannot be remedied, and as Mr. Newman makes a specialty of the manufacture of college society badges, we recommend that the Primary Badge be manufactured by Mr. Newman from the die made under the supervision of Major Ransom, and that said die be transferred

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

359

for the purpose to J. F. Newman, subject to the order of the General Treasurer of the Fraternity.

Believing that the manufacture of our badges should be restricted to one party, we recommend that all authority hereto­ fore given to other parties be withdrawn, and that it be arranged that badges can only be procured upon an order from the General Treasurer, countersigned by the secretary of the chapter ordering.

J o h n J . S h ie l d s , C h a s. J . S ea m a n , J a s. A. B u rh a n s,

Committee.

E X H IB IT I R eport

of

C o m m it t e e

on

F in a n c e

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The undersigned, your Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the report of the General Treasurer, have had the same under consideration and find it correct, as given below, with a balance in the Treasury of $732.30.

Under the good management of Brother Rankin, the paper has almost or quite paid expenses. The Committee on Catalogue have collected the greater part of the Catalogue Fund. The general financial condition of the Fraternity at large is exceedingly prosperous.

Your committee heartily recommend to the approval of the Fraternity, the Endowment Fund plan, as published in the minutes of the last Convention.

Your committee recommend that the thanks of the Frater­ nity be tendered to the Treasurer, O. R. Brouse, for the faithful performance of his official duties during the past year.

Sam uel G. B oyle, C h a s. J . E st e p, W a l t e r S. L e w i s ,

Committee.

I n d i a n a p o l i s , I n d .,

September 5, 1878.

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

G e n e r a l T r e a s u r e r ’s R e p o r t C h ic a g o , III., September 4, 1878.

To the Annual Convention of the Beta Theta Pi, at Indianapolis, Ind. Mr. President and Brethren:— The following is the report of moneys received, paid out and in the treasury of the Fraternity for the year 1877-8: BETA

TH ETA

PI

PAPER

FUN D

Received for Subscriptions................................. $259.10 Received for K irby’s Advertisement................. 3o . 00 ---------Deficit paid to Editor from Reserve Fund......................

$289.10 16.54

$305-64 Paid for Printing 10 N os..................................... $2 50.00 Paid for Extra 4 pp. in each of Sept., Nov. and JuneN os.................... ..................................

24.96 Paid for Postage.................... ..............................

5.94 Paid for Incidentals, Mailing, e tc ......................

24.74 ---------CATA LO G U E FUN D

Received from— Gam m a................................................................. $30.00 D elta..................................................................... ....75-oo Epsilon.................................................................. ....25.00 Z eta............................................................................6.00 Io ta ........................................................................ ....50.00 K ap p a................................................................... ....30.00 Lam bda.......... ................................................ .........20.00 P i................................................................................5-oo R h o ........................................................................ ....25.00 T a u ........................................................................ ....25.00 P si.......................................................................... ....18.00 Alpha Alpha......................................................... ....19.00 Alpha Gamm a..........................................................41.00 Alpha D elta.................... .........................................19.00

$305.64

T H E M I N U T E S O F T H E C O N V E N T IO N O F 1878 CATALO G U E FUND

361

(C O N T IN U E D )

Alpha Epsilon.......................................... ................9 -5° Alpha T heta.............................................................21.00 Alpha K appa..................................... . ................... 15.00 Alpha Lambda..................................................... ... 27.00 Alpha N u . .. . v....................................................... S-oo Alpha X i .................................................................. 18.50 Alpha Omicron.................................................... ... 6.00 Alpha P i............................................................... ... 6.00 Alpha R h o.................... ....................................... ... 20.00 Alpha Upsilon......................................................... 15.00 Alpha P h i............................................................. ... 11.00 Iota Alumni.............................................................15.00 Total from Chapters.............................................

Hon. Wm. A. Moore, D etroit........................... $ Hon. Sidney Miller, D etroit..............................

Hon. Levi T. Griffin, Detroit...........................

Hon. A. P. Carpenter, Bath, N. H ..................

W. M. Salter, Boston, M ass..............................

W. E. Dennison, Delaware, O ..........................

J. C. Jones, Fulton, M o .....................................

F. L. Ferguson, Fulton, M o ..............................

Sam’l Priest, Fulton, M o ...................................

H. C. Mead, Chicago, 111...................................

Hon. Geo. W. Boyce, Cincinnati, O ................

Hon. J. W. Herron, Cincinnati, O ....................

Daniel Comstock, Richmond, In d ....................

$557.00

50.00 20.00 20.00 3.50 2.00 3.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 2.00 1.00

Total from Individuals.........................................

$107.50

Total amount received...........................

$664.50

Paid for sample cuts...........................................

16.50

Balance to Credit of Catalogue Fund................

$648.00

362

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878 R E S E R V E FUN D

Received from Geo. H. Halm, General T reas... $ 35.39 From same, per W. C. R ansom .......................... 74-75 ----------

$110.14

From C. D. Roys, Alpha A lu m n i................. $1.00 From Chapter Delta, per Paul W ilcox.............. 15.00 Epsilon, per S. G. B o yle............

1.00 Gamma, per R. P. Patterson. . .

7.00 9.00 ** Iota, per W. A. Foster........ “ Kappa, per A. J. Hawk . . .

9.00 “ Psi, per C. A. Kleeberger........... 10.00 ‘‘ Alpha Lambda, per D.Carpenter 15.00 “ Alpha Psi, per Jas. A. Y o u n g. . .

8.00 ----------

75.00

T otal received................ .......................................

Paid for Current Expenses..................................$ 6.30 Bal. Net Cost of Beta Theta Pi P aper..............

16.54

$ 22.84

Leaving balance to credit of Reserve F u n d ....................

$162.30

M EM ORANDUM

Reserve Fund balance.......................................$162.30 Appropriated by the Convention of Sept., 1878, for badge dies, e tc..............................

50.00 Bal. passed to the credit of the ENDOW M ENT

FUN D

Under law passed Sept. 6, 1878.......................... $112.30 R E C A P I T U L A T I O N ----B E T A

TH ETA

PI

PAPER

FUN D

Receipts................................................................ $289.10 Deficit paid from Reserve Fund......................... 16.54

$305-64 Payments, cost of publishing.............................. 305.64

185.14

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878 CATALOGUE

363

FUND

Receipts................................................................ $664.50 Payments.............................................................

16.50 Bal. in Treasury to credit of Fund.......................

RESERVE

$648.00

FUND

Receipts................................................................ $185.14 Payments............................................. $ 22.84 Transferred to End’nt Fund............... 112.30 $135.14 Bal. in Treasury, which is the unused appropriation of 1878.................................................................

ENDOW M ENT

$ 50.00

FUN D

In Treasury............................................................................ $112.30 Total balance in Treasury......................................... 810.30 Respectfully submitted, 0 . R. B r o u s e , Gen’l Treasurer.

E X H IB IT K R e p o r t o f t h e C o m m it t e e o n E n d o w m e n t F u n d

To the Annual Convention of Beta Theta Pi: Your committee, to whom was referred the plans for an Endowment Fund, would report as follows: We recommend that the draft of laws referred by the last Convention to this Convention, and published on page 83 of the paper for September, 1877, be adopted and incorporated in the Constitution just adopted, as follows: (1) B y amending Sec. 4, Art V., of the Constitution as just adopted so as to read: “ The General Treasurer shall be the custodian of all funds of the Fraternity, and shall pay out the same only under appro­ priations made by the Convention, and upon the requisition of the General Secretary, approved by the Executive Board;

364

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

except that moneys of the paper fund, or of the Catalogue Fund, may be paid upon requisition of the editor and catalogue com­ mittee, respectively, approved by the Executive Board, without special appropriation.”

(2) B y making sections 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7, of the laws as printed on said page 83 of the paper for September, 1877, part and parcel of said Article V., of the new Constitution, enumerat­ ing them therein as Sections 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 of said Article V. We further recommend that, under our Constitution, the laws prescribed on said page 83 of the paper for September, 1877, but with Sec. 4 amended as set forth above, be passed as the laws of the Fraternity to go into immediate effect.

W. C. R a n s o m , O. R . B rou se,

Committee.

I n d i a n a p o l i s , I n d ., September 6, 1878.

Mfcinutes o f

Convention o f 1 8 7 8

OUR N EW CO N STITU TIO N Below is given, in full, the report of the Special Committee on Con­ stitution, appointed by the Detroit, Convention, of 1877. To avoid repetition, however, we publish the draft of Constitu­ tion accompanying it, not as it came from the hands of that committee, but as it now stands approved by the action of the Indianapolis Convention, after all the alterations and amend­ ments suggested by the various committees— on Endowment, on Constitution and Jurisprudence, etc.— waiting now only the ratification of the next General Convention.

To the Honorable Convention of Beta Theta Pi: The undersigned, your committee to whom the Convention of 1877 referred the matter of a revision of your Constitution, look to the elimination therefrom of all provisions appertaining to the secret work and organization of the Association, so that its organic act and a declaration of its objects could be published and submitted to the consideration and approval or disapproval of all the world, beg leave, respectfully, to report: that they met in the C ity of Port Huron, Michigan, in the month of March last, and entered upon the discharge of the duties assigned them.

Fully appreciating the importance of the proposed change in the policy of the society, the subject was discussed by your com­ mittee in all its bearings, and, as a result, it arrived at the con­ clusion that the time had been reached when the permanency and welfare of the Fraternity demanded a revision of its Constitution, whereby its internal work and policies could be entirely separated from the provisions enacted for its general organization, govern­ ment and administrative control.

Looking to this end, your committee agreed upon the draft of a Constitution which they submit herewith, and though fully conscious of the fact that it is not the best that could be devised, nor perhaps all that is needed to secure thoroughness of organi­ zation and the strongest vitality for our beloved society, yet they believe that it is a step in advance, and in the right direction, and 365

366

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

will, if nothing more, afford a basis upon which the Convention can in its wisdom build such a structure of government as will give the Beta Theta Pi increased power, prosperity and per­ manency for all time.

Your committee are aware that among the younger and* perhaps, more enthusiastic members of the Fraternity, a movement of this kind is regarded with distrust, born of the idea that it will tend to dispel the charm of secrecy and remove from before profane eyes the veil of mystery that hides the inner courts of Father Wooglin’s temple. It is not strange, perhaps, that this view of the matter should be taken by our younger brethren, unused to regard the affairs of life from the more practical stand­ point reached by those of us who have come farther along its rugged pathway.

But if it can be demonstrated that the proposed changes will conduce to the welfare and strength of the society, by inspiring increased confidence in its usefulness; by securing the withdrawal of the hostility that has hitherto existed to it and all others of its class in the minds of many of the best men and in the Senates of numbers of the most prominent and influential institutions of the country; by giving it an organic law fully up to its needs, commensurate with its fast increasing number of chapters and consequent increase of mem­ bership; providing new and more extensive objects of good for its accomplishment in the interest of those who enter its halls, and roof under its sacred obligations, by improving its business methods in nearly every detail of its internal management; and finally, by building up an institution that all our Alumni will continue to have in their special keeping, and will delight to patronize with their presence and their purse to the latest hour of their lives, and all this without, in fact, dis­ turbing the measure of secrecy essential to the character and •attractiveness of our Society— why shall we not take the step that is to naturalize the Fraternity and make it an acknowledged co-worker with the honored institutions where its altars shall be raised?

It has been thirty-nine years the present Autumn since Knox, and Linton, and Hardin, Marshall, Ryan, and the other

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

honored founders, met in their room in old Miami University and organized the society of Beta Theta Pi. It is more than doubtful if those old fraters ever, in their most enthusiastic mood, dreamed of the future in store for the Asso­ ciation they were then establishing in the midst of so many obstacles and difficulties. And it is not strange that Ryan, a sentinel somewhere on the distant out-posts of Texas, when, after the lapse of more than thirty-five years, he was looked up and asked for his photograph from which to make an engraving for our forthcoming Catalogue, should have asked in unfeigned astonishment, “ Do you really mean to say that the little society organized by Reily Knox and Dave Linton at Miami Univer­ sity in 1839 has really became the society of over thirty chap­ ters and 5,000 members which you claim for it?”

That was an early day in the history, not only of Greek Fraternities, but of educational institutions as well. Of the former, Sigma Phi, Psi Upsilon, and Alpha Delta Phi were the only ones that had much claim to position or influence; while of the latter, only a few colleges and universities on the Atlantic slope, of ante-Revolutionary establishment, could really lay claim to exceptional importance and advantages.

Miami University, as the most promising of Western insti­ tutions, had attracted the attention of the Alpha Delta Phi (then as now among the more powerful of college societies) and a chapter of that Fraternity located there had taken into its membership the larger number of students whose qualifications made them desirable for chapter material, and the pale light of their oriental bearings shone through Miami’s halls with unob­ structed rays.

The traditions of old Alpha inform us that nearly all of those engaged in the foundation of Beta Theta Pi were at one time or another tendered the honor of an election in Alpha Delta Phi, but inspired by that pluck characteristic of the western student, it was declined, and the determination arrived at to organize a rival fraternity that should contest with the followers of crescent and star every inch of the western and southern territory. And so the first Constitution of our society was adopted and the fires set to burning upon the altar of our paternal saint, the traditional Wooglin. That document, nearly as it came from the hands of

368

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

the original founders, was our organic law when the author of this report was a Beta some thirty years ago, and we regarded it as nearly a model plan of organization as human skill could devise, and the simple reading of that instrument, and assent to the important obligations which its provisions imposed, consti­ tuted the sole form of initiation to membership in the society.

In the mutations incident to the passing years, nothing is left of that old Constitution, save the “ immortal preamble,” as our younger brothers are delighted to call it— the provisions declaratory of the name and objects of the society, the insignia by which its measures are designated, and the impressive obligations which constitute the crowning strength and glory of our beloved society.

That instrument, although more ample in its provisions for conducting the business of the Association, nevertheless, in no essential degree anticipated the requirements for successful administration of the affairs of an organization as extensive as ours has become. Our illustrious founders were probably content with the idea of an association which, in numbers and influence, should equal any other of their day, and did not dream that dur­ ing the lifetime of most of them it would come to have chapters scattered from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from Massa­ chusetts B ay to the Rio Grande. For such a system, the plan devised by them was all-sufficient, and until its extent and the complication incident to its increasing numbers placed it beyond the provisions adopted for its administration, the society more than anticipated the hopes of its founders.

But as we review the history of the Association, we can see that the omission to supply for it a central executive head was from the very first a serious defect in its organization. As from time to time members from the parent chapter drifted away to other institutions, inspired with the idea of extending the scope o f the newly formed fraternity, chapters were established, proba­ b ly upon weak foundations, and without much reference to their promise for success in the future. These dragged out a feeble existence for a time, and then expired, leaving their records and archives to be scattered ad libitum, and the few members ini­ tiated to forget their relations to Beta Theta Pi in the obligations assumed to other fraternities. It is not strange, under these

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

circumstances, that our Constitution soon became no longer a sealed document, but as familiar to our rivals as ourselves. Other chapters, such as Princeton, Williams, and Brown, instituted un­ der the most promising auspices and thriving for a time with signs of most brilliant futures, isolated as they were from the main body of our chapters, and lacking the encouragement and sympathy so essentially necessary to their success, and sur­ rounded by the rivalry of old established fraternities of earlier origin, finally languished and then expired, carrying, with few exceptions, their membership to other societies, and leaving their failure as a reproach to Beta Theta Pi, and their records, let us hope, in the ashes to which a proper sense of honor and manhood would consign them.

Another long list of defunct chapters is the result, not so much, perhaps, of the need of proper support, as of the lack of proper care and system in their establishment. From the first until now, the mode of procedure in the institution of new chap­ ters has been so little fortified by those safeguards which ordi­ nary prudence and the importance of the issue would seem to demand that the wonder is not that we have so formidable an array of departed shades pointing at us with their wan fingers, but that there is not a still larger number of dead or weakly chapters encumbering the rolls of the Association. As our so­ ciety has increased in extent and popularity, of course applica­ tions for its privileges have multiplied in like proportion, and the difficulties in the way of having each new proposition thoroughly considered by the chapters, before giving it approval, have become so formidable that it may well be questioned whether of late years a single new charter has been granted where the chapters have been thoroughly informed as to the consideration involved in the concession of the important privileges they were about to make. It is needless to say that such a condition of affairs cannot prove otherwise than an element of weakness in our organization that will eventually destroy it unless guarded against by such constitutional limitations as the danger of the case evidently demands.

In the draft submitted, your committee have suggested a feasible plan by which the formation of new chapters will be hedged in with such provisions as will secure for the Association

370

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

protection against haste in procedure or lack of information as to the character of the institution and applicants who seek the honor and privileges of Beta Theta Pi. Our Association, throughout its entire career, has suffered greatly from the hostility of college authorities to the establish­ ment of secret fraternities at the institutions which they control.

In our earlier history, the strong chapters at Princeton, Crawfordsville, and the University of Michigan were crushed out by the official warfare made upon them; while in later years our chapters at Denison University, Beloit College, Monmouth, and the University of Iowa have all been brought under the rod, and have either ceased to exist, or have been so restricted in their operations by the extreme secrecy necessary to their existence that but slight advantage or satisfaction has been realized by those chapters from their connection with the Fra­ ternity. This feeling of antagonism, it is believed, has not, as a general rule, sprung from hostility to secret societies upon general principles, but from the mistaken idea that college secret societies were in matter of fact but little better than juntas or cabals organized among the students for the purpose either of elevating the “ Ancient Henry,” of regulating college politics and appoint­ ments in personal interest, or of affording organized interference with the proper enforcement of Senate discipline and rules.

Entirely in the dark as to the objects and purposes of such organi­ zations, it is, perhaps, not strange that they should have regarded them with suspicion or as of doubtful utility— especially in those instances where the character of the members was not entirely “ sans peur, sans reproche.” Nor has the experience of years served other than to intensify this feeling, and if we interpret indications aright the time is close at hand when a general move­ ment will be made to suppress the Greek Letter Societies, whose names have come to be legion in the educational institutions of the country. And it will be only those who fortify themselves against the threatened attack who will be able to outlive the energy with which it will be made. It is apparent that the simplest mode of averting the danger, so far as our own beloved Associa­ tion is concerned, is by placing it in a position where it ceases to be obnoxious to the charges made against the entire class. The object and purposes for which Beta Theta Pi was instituted are

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

371

pure and worthy, and we can in no way prejudice its interest or prosperity if they, with the plan of organization by which it is proposed to promote those ends, are published and thrown open to the criticism of the entire world. Satisfied that an organiza­ tion can challenge admiration for the dignity and manliness of its proceedings, the correctness of its purposes, and the purity of its morals, it may be relied upon that those charged with the admin­ istration of educational institutions will care but little about the particular form or ceremonies adopted for the initiation of mem­ bers, or the details of the cabala by which the Fraternity pro­ tects itself against those not entitled to its privileges. Your committee cannot but believe that reasoning to be specious which argues against the making public the general plan of our organization for the reason that it would not satisfy those who would still insist that we had secrets not open to the eye of the million. It is probably true that now and then we should find a carping bigot who would refuse the dumpling because he could not see how Goody put the apple in; but it is believed that in a large majority of cases the presentation of our Organic Law to a governing body of liberal-minded men would promptly secure for the society the unqualified recognition to which its merits so justly entitle it.

There is one other feature connected with this branch of the subject to which your committee should perhaps briefly allude, as of importance to the society. There has, undoubtedly, many a desirable young man been lost to the ranks of Beta Theta Pi, for the simple reason that, upon being solicited to become one of its members, no intelligible statement of its objects could be presented for his consideration, and many others from the fact that home influence was against a connection with an organiza­ tion whose aims and ends were shrouded in darkness more mysterious than that which enveloped the Sibylline paper. In such cases, who can measure the influence of the quiet placing in his hands of a neat copy of our Constitution, from which he could gain a general outline of the organization, its salient fea­ tures, and the ends it sought to accomplish?

There is many a quiet, thoughtful young man, just the one to worthily wear the badge and bear the name of Beta Theta Pi, with whom such an argument would have far more effect than

372

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

weeks of the small talk and strategy usually relied upon to secure desirable men to the ranks of the rival fraternities.

Your committee believe that it is desirable, if possible, to inspire our Alumni with continued zeal in behalf of the Frater­ nity after their active connection with the college chapters shall have ceased. And it has hitherto been a source of congratulation that the fraternity spirit has shown a greater vitality among the alumni of the Beta Theta Pi than of any other college society; and the number of “ old boys” that annually come together around the altar of Wooglin indicates that the Fraternity does not pride itself falsely in that particular. But our young friends, now inspired with enthusiasm over matters that enlisted our sympathies and interests a score of years ago, must not forget that time and circumstances change the aspirations of men, and those things which challenged our interest as boys, although em­ balmed in the fondest recollections of a happy past, have ceased to enlist our active sympathies as men. Our Alumni Chapters, formidable as they appear in our society roster, are hardly more, it is supposed, in most instances, than mediums whereby the now staid and sober Greeks, happily neighbors to each other— harassed with the cares and worn with the demands of practical life upon them— can occasionally come together, and over a slice of spiced dog, bring back to mind the reminiscences of the “ long ago.” But there should be work for the alumni to do which will perpetuate to their latest hour their practical interest in our beloved society— an interest to be manifested in what they shall do with their hands, and what they shall bequeath from the plenty that Fortune, in a pleasant mood, has laid in their laps.

And, although suggestions in that direction may seem Utopian, what more noble monument to usefulness could a fraternity seek than the founding and successful maintenance of a technological institute, where its members could have post graduate courses in such specialties as best fitted their inclinations and genius, or the establishment of a library with art gallery attached where art studies could be pursued by those who would wander in the ideal world.

But a thorough and complete organization of the business department of our Association is indispensable to the accomplish­ ment of results to which we should aspire. And an organization

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

373

not only complete and perfect in its details, but one made permanent and perpetual through the medium of corporate rights and privileges, is what we specially need. Your committee believe that through no other medium can your affairs be so well administered. In view of the already large and rapidly increasing number of chapters, for the purpose of securing a durable means of intercommunication among them, a fraternity paper should be placed upon a permanent and certain basis. You have a history to perpetuate and the collection and preservation of society archives to provide for. You have your Necrological record to be kept in reliable form. Y ou have your Catalogue and other offi­ cial publications to be prepared, printed and circulated, and, above all, the time has arrived when your financial budget must be provided for upon some reliable system, and all these things can be accomplished only through the medium of well defined business methods, enforced by responsible and permanent officers.

Our interests have become too diffused and our field of activities too extended to leave the management of society business to officers in position only for the uncertain tenure of membership in a college class. And to insure the perfect working of any system that may be adopted it is absolutely necessary that offi­ cers and members of the chapters should be thoroughly familiar with its provisions and requirements and so prepared to comply with them in every particular.

This last end can be secured but in one way— that of placing in the hands of each member of the Fraternity a copy of its organic act. It is evident that this could not be done without the constant danger— nay, the entire probability— of its falling into the hands of the outside world every day in the week. But, with all provisions eliminated from our Constitution which pertain to the internal work of the Fraternity, no possible harm could come from such a result, but we should rather have a pride in bringing to the notice of the uninitiated the plan upon which the Beta temple had been erected.

It is not practicable, were it desirable, to successfully blend provisions for business administration with formulae belonging exclusively to the Esoierika of the organization. The latter should be carefully merged into a dignified and simple form, preserving the secret symbolism, obligations and traditions of the

374

THE MINUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

society in such recital as would impress the neophyte with its purity and beauty, and thus be communicated in cipher for uniform use among the chapters. And then let no other forms or ceremonies be interpolated on those authorized by the law of the Fraternity. Hoping to inspire some genius of our society with an impulse to present something worthy of consideration in this latter direction, your committee offered a premium for the best form of initiation to be sent in before this present session of your Convention. We regret to say our invitation has thus far met with no response; but, nevertheless, our faith is in no wise weakened in the certainty that we have among us many a brother who, if once he nerved himself for the effort, could give us a form of ceremonies suitable to our needs, and that would prove of general acceptance to the Fraternity.

Your Committee has thus endeavored to present to your honorable body some of the considerations that have influenced them in arriving at the conclusion sought to be enforced in the •draft of a Constitution herewith submitted for the action of this honorable Convention. It is, perhaps, obnoxious to the fault of too much complexity and detail; but it is difficult otherwise (unless by special statute regulations) to provide for needs so m any and so varied as those of our Association have come to be.

General regulations, enforcing constitutional requirements, unless published and brought directly to the notice of the chapter and the individual members thereof, fail of enforcement, leaving affairs in a most unsatisfactory condition of looseness and con­ fusion. For proof of which, witness the evident failure of our dis­ trict organization, and the regulations for institution of new chapters, under our present Constitution. The expense and trou­ ble incident to a plan of government based upon laws to be passed from time to time, and then amended or repealed by subsequent Conventions, are insuperable obstacles in the way of its success­ ful administration. Rather let the machinery of government (and that as simple as the exigencies of the case will admit) be provided for in one enactment so conservative in its provisions as to shield it from the evil effects of too hasty or too frequent legislation, and you then have the plan for the administration of your affairs which the genius and character of the Beta Brother­ hood eminently requires.

THE M INUTES OF THE CONVENTION OF 1878

375

If we have failed to present this subject to your consideration as clearly and as forcibly as we could have wished, in support of the conclusions we have reached, it has not been from want of thought or indifference to the great importance of the results involved. But, after years of unfaltering devotion and love for our noble society, we cannot but believe that the change in its constitutional provisions suggested in the resolution referred to us by your past Convention would place it a step in advance of all other American College Fraternities, would attract the attention and win the approval of college governments hitherto inimical to our existence, and secure for us the sympathy and co­ operation of many ever before indifferent to the fate or fortune of the Beta Theta Pi. If such indeed is to be outcome of the action recommended in this report, what brother can for a moment question its expediency or desirableness, or cherish a lingering doubt that its adoption would place our society among the recognized and permanent institutions of the land, beyond the reach of successful attack or the inroads of wasting decay?

W. C . R a n s o m .

O. R . B r o u se ,

A. N. G r a n t .

T5l)e "3Fourtl) Constitution C o n s t it u t io n o f t h e B e t a T h e t a P i .

For the better accomplishment of the objects and designs of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, established by John Reily Knox, S. T. Marshall, David Linton, John G. Smith, Charles H. Hardin, John H. Duncan, M. C. Ryan, and Thomas B. Gordon, of ever honored memory, at Miami University, in the State of Ohio, October 1839, the heretofore unpublished constitutions of the association are hereby placed among the records in the archives, and the General Convention, assembled in the C ity of Indianapolis, State of Indiana, in the month of September, A. D. 1878, adopt and publish to the world the following, as the organic law of the Beta Theta Pi: P ream ble:

376

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

A R T IC L E I. N a m e a n d O b je c t s .

This association shall be known and desig­ nated as the Fraternity of Beta Theta Pi. S e c t io n

i

.

It shall be constituted as hereinafter provided, and shall have for its objects the promotion of moral and social •culture among its members, the establishment of confidence and friendly relations between the Universities and Colleges of the United States, in the securing of unity of action and sympathy in matters of common interest between them, and the building up of a Fraternity that recognizes mutual assistance in the honorable labors and aspirations of life, devotion to culti­ vation of the intellect, and unsullied friendship and unfaltering fidelity as objects worthy the highest aim and purpose of asso­ ciated effort.

S e c . 2.

A R T IC L E II. O f C h a p t e r s a n d t h e i r O r g a n i z a t io n .

The Association shall consist of chapters already established, and such as may be hereafter established in American Universities and Colleges of good standing and repute. Such chapters shall be designated by the Greek letters in the order of their organization— using duplicate prefix of the letters, should the number of chapters require it. All chapters of this Fraternity and the members thereof in honor­ able standing, shall have equal rights and privileges therein, and should a chapter cease to exist, its designation and place shall remain intact on the records of the Association, and its chapter-records and archives be transmitted to the General Secretary for deposit with the Executive Board.

S e c t io n

i

.

2. Chapters shall be established only upon the petition in writing of at least five under-graduate members of a regularly incorporated University or College. The character and qualifications of such petition must be vouched for by at least two members of the Fraternity, and the establishment of such chapter recommended by at least two of the three nearest ^chapters to the proposed new chapter. Such petition must Sec.

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

377

be transmitted to the General Secretary, who will present the same to the Executive Board for its consideration, and if it deem it for the good of the Association so to do, it may issue letters pro tempore to said petitioners, by virtue of which they may organize and meet as a Provisional Chapter until the next General Convention, to which said letters pro tempore, and the proceedings had by virtue thereof, shall be returned through the General Secretary; when, if such letters and the proceedings of such Provisional Chapter shall be approved by the unanimous vote of all the chapters represented in Convention, or by the vote of at least three-fourths of all the chapters of the Fra­ ternity, then a charter shall issue to the petitioners named in the letters pro tempore, by authority of which they shall be constituted a full and permanent chapter of the Beta Theta Pi. Otherwise, such letters shall fully cease and determine.

Letters pro tempore issued by the Executive Board must be by it transmitted to the General Secretary, who shall designate some suitable brother to open the proposed new chapter, initiate the petitioners, and give the instructions necessary to the proper work of the Fraternity.

S e c . 3.

4. The General Convention may issue charters direct to not less than five petitioners, under the same restric­ tions as are required in the case of letters issued to Provisional Chapters.

Sec.

5. Charters shall be printed upon parchment of prescribed form, signed by the President and Secretary of the Convention by which they are granted, and countersigned by the General Secretary, attested by the Great Seal of the Fra­ ternity.

Sec.

S e c . 6.

The officers of each chapter shall consist of a President, Secretary, and Treasurer, who shall perform the duties usually devolving upon such officers, together with such other subordinate officers as each chapter may for itself deter­ mine upon.

S e c . 7.

Each chapter shall have exclusive jurisdiction in the institution where the same shall be located, over the con­ duct of all members of the Fraternity, whether they be members

378

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

of that particular chapter or not; may make such regulations and adopt such order of business as- deemed expedient, pro­ vided they be not inconsistent with the general constitution and regulations— the right of appeal to the general convention, however, being open to any brother feeling aggrieved by any action of the chapter growing out of such regulations.

S e c . 8.

Ordinary meetings of the chapters shall be held w ith closed doors, b u t such restrictions m ay be removed by unanim ous consent in case of anniversaries; b u t the existence of any chapter or its membership shall not be disclosed without its consent.

Chapters are strictly prohibited from form in g combinations with the chapters of similar fraternities for the purpose of effecting elections to honors or offices in the colleges where they are located, and are in all respects to encourage strict loyalty and obedience to the government and rules of said colleges.

Sec .

9.

S ec . 10. No person shall become a member of this Asso­ ciation, being a member of any similar one; nor unless he shall be a member of some under-graduate college class; and then, not until the chapter to which his name shall be proposed shall have expressed its confidence in his character and qualifications, by electing him by the unanimous vote of its active members.

Organizations of the Alumni members of the F ratern ity m ay be perfected under such regulations and at such places as the General Convention m ay prescribe. Such organizations shall be known and designated as Chapters of the Alumni of the B eta T heta Pi, and shall be named from the city in which they are located.

Sec.

11.

A R T IC L E III. O f t h e G e n e r a l C o n v e n tio n :

I t s O rg a n iz a tio n a n d P o w e rs.

The supreme legislative authority of this Association shall be vested in a General Convention, to consist of delegates elected by all the chapters—both college and alum ni: said Convention shall hold its sessions annually, a t the tim e and place designated in the motion to adjourn; provided, how­ S e c t io n

i

.

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

379

ever, that every third session of such Convention shall be held in the C ity of Cincinnati, State of Ohio, the corporate home of the Fraternity.

S e c . 2.

Every chapter, including the Chapters of the Alumni, shall be entitled to three delegates and three votes in the Convention, such delegates to be members of the chapter that they represent: provided, however, that any regularly elected delegate may, in case of inability to attend, give his proxy to another member, to represent his chapter in his stead.

3. In determining questions by the Convention, any member thereof may demand a vote by chapters, when the vote of each chapter shall be ascertained by a majority of the regularly elected delegates— or their proxies— in attendance upon the session of the Convention, and shall be counted ac­ cordingly: provided, that if only one delegate be present, he may cast the entire vote to which his chapter is entitled.

Sec.

4. The General Convention shall have exclusive jurisdiction in all matters not specially reserved to the chapters by the provisions of the Constitution, subject to approval, however, as hereinafter provided. It shall adopt a general system of regulations, forms and procedures for uniform use among the chapters, and to be disseminated among them by such means as the Convention, in its discretion, may devise.

Sec.

S e c . 5.

The Convention shall cause its proceedings to be published as soon as possible after its adjournment, and sent to the chapters. And unless, within three months subsequent to the transmission of such proceedings, one-third or more of the chapters shall have filed with the General Secretary notice of disapproval thereof, they shall be considered as ratified.

But if such proceedings or any part thereof shall be disapproved by one-third of the chapters, such proceedings, so disapproved, shall be inoperative and void.

Sec. 6.

The Convention shall have full power to enact such rules and regulations— not inconsistent with this Constitu­ tion— as it may determine.

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

A R T IC L E IV. O f G e n e r a l O f f ic e r s a n d t h e ir D u t ie s .

The General officers of the Association shall be a General Secretary and General Treasurer and such other subordinate officers as may be required, provided, that the Cor­ porate Treasurer shall be ex-officio treasurer of the Society.

S e c t io n i .

The General Officers (treasurer excepted) shall be elected by the General Convention, and the powers and respon­ sibilities of each defined by that body.

S e c . 2.

The President of the Executive Board shall be ex-officio President of the Fraternity.

S e c . 3.

The General Officers shall hold their positions from Convention to Convention and until their successors shall have been duly elected.

S e c . 4.

S e c . 5.

There shall also be elected at each Convention the members of the Executive Board, as hereinafter provided for, who shall hold their respective offices for the term of three years, and until their successors are duly elected and qualified, and in such Executive Board shall be vested the executive administration of the affairs of the Fraternity.

A R T IC L E V. O f F in a n c e s .

It shall be the duty of the Secretary of each chapter, within ten days after the first day of February of each year, to prepare in duplicate and on blanks to be furnished by the General Treasurer for that purpose, an accurate list of active members, on said first day of February. One of said lists he shall transmit, with the sum of One Dollar for each member specified therein, to the General Treasurer for the credit of his chapter on account of Annual Dues, and the other to the General Secretary.

S e c t io n i .

The General Treasurer, upon the receipt of such list and funds accompanying the same, shall, without delay, prepare duplicate receipts therefor, one to be sent to the chapter making the remittance, and the other to the General Secretary.

S e c . 2.

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

38i

No other assessments shall be made on the chap­ ters without their consent. And no chapter, in arrears for annual dues, shall be entitled to representation in the General Convention.

S e c . 3.

The General Treasurer shall be custodian of all funds of the Fraternity, and shall pay out the same only under appropriations made by the Convention and upon the requisi­ tions of the General Secretary, approved by the Executive Board: except that moneys of the Paper Fund, or the Catalogue Fund, may be paid upon requisitions of the Editor or Catalogue Committee respectively, approved by the Executive Board, without special appropriation.

S e c . 4.

S e c . 5.

The fiscal year shall close with the month of June.

S e c . 6.

The Treasurer shall give bond with two sureties for twice the amount of money to be in his hands at any time during his term of office, such bond in amount and character to be approved by the Executive Board and the General Sec­ retary upon said bond, and the bond to be deposited with the General Treasurer before the funds shall be paid into said Treasurer’s hands.

S e c . 7.

All moneys for dues, paper, catalogue, and all other accounts shall be paid directly to the Treasurer, and he shall keep a separate account for each fund in his possession, and shall report to each Convention all the financial trans­ actions of the year.

S e c . 8.

The annual dues shall be one dollar for each mem­ ber, and shall be paid to the General Treasurer by the repre­ sentative chapters before the first day of February in each year, as provided for in Section 1 of this Article, and the dues of every new member initiated between February 1 and June 30 shall be sent to the Treasurer immediately upon his initiation: pro­ vided, that payment of the subscription price of the Beta Theta Pi paper for the year shall exempt a member from the pay­ ment of annual dues.

S e c . 9.

All moneys remaining unappropriated at the close of the annual Convention, and the unexpended balances of all appropriations remaining after the object of the appropriation

382

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

shall have been attained, shall be credited to a fund to be called the Endowment Fund, at the close of the fiscal year.

S e c . 10.

The Endowment Fund, together with all gifts, devises and bequests to the same, shall be kept intact and invested by the Treasurer in loans upon real estate worth at least twice the amount of the loan, or in United States bonds, and shall be made to accumulate until such Endowment shall amount to ten thousand dollars ($10,000), after which the fraternity shall determine what shall be done with the interest on said fund in the same manner as the amendments are made to the constitution, but the principal of said fund shall forever remain intact; and the fraternity may by a similar method change the character of the investment, but never divert it from the objects of its creation.

A R T IC L E VI. O f I n c o r p o r a tio n a n d t h e E x e c u t iv e B o a rd .

The Society shall be incorporated under the laws of the State of Ohio, and its business office located in the C ity of Cincinnati.

S e c t io n

i

.

The corporate power shall be vested in an Execu­ tive Board to consist of nine members, six of whom shall be residents of Cincinnati or vicinity. Said Board shall be divided into classes of three, and shall hold office for the period of three years, so that the terms of three members will expire with each year. The Board shall choose a Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer from their own ranks, and the latter shall be ex-officio treasurer of the association.

S e c . 2.

The General powers and duties of the Executive Board shall be defined by the articles of incorporation, which shall be framed under the direction of the General Convention.

But said Board shall have, generally, the control and manage­ ment of the surplus funds and properties of the Association, and shall be charged with the management and publication of the fraternity paper. It shall also have in keeping the records and archives of such chapters as, for any cause, shall surrender their charters, and shall publish the General Cata­ S e c . 3.

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

logue of the Fraternity, as the Convention may from time to time direct.

4. The Executive Board shall make a full report of their doings, with statement of financial account, to each ses­ sion of the General Convention, and its books and records shall at all times be open to inspection by members or committees of the Fraternity.

Sec.

A R T IC L E VII. This Constitution may be amended or re­ pealed only by concurrent action of two consecutive Conven­ tions.

S e c t io n

i

.

There will be noted among the exhibits a report of a Visiting Officer.

The functions of this official were to visit the chapters and report upon their condition. No appropriation was made to defray the expense of the visit­ ing officer and the incumbents of this office were volunteers, and finally the office was discontinued. Beta Theta Pi anticipated by almost thirty years the institution of such an office by another college fraternity. The functions of the so-called traveling secretaries of many fraternities are practically the same as those of our old visiting officers.

The general secretary reporting to this convention was Joseph R. Lamar of the Bethany chapter, and one of the visitors from the De Pauw chapter was Willis Van de Vanter, both of these brothers afterwards becom­ ing members of the Supreme Court of the United States and meeting again for the first time when they were sworn in.

A petition was presented to this convention from Marietta College.

There will be found upon the rolls of our Alpha Chapter the name of Joseph G. Wilson, Miami ’46, who never attended Miami University, but who, while a student at Marietta, was initiated for the purpose of establishing a chapter there. In 1846 Marietta was a college of about the same type as Jefferson and Ohio Wesleyan and Hanover— and would have afforded a good location for a chapter, but in 1855 Phi Gamma Delta established a chapter there, in 1859 Alpha Digamma, a local society, originated there; in i860 Alpha Sigma Phi, a branch of a Yale Sophomore Society, established a chapter there, and in 1870 Delta Upsilon, the then anti-secret society, was established there.

This completely took up the field. The application from Marietta, however, might have been considered favorably if the petitioning local society had not been guilty of the bad taste of calling itself Phi Theta Pi and adopting a badge precisely the same as that of Beta Theta Pi with the exception of the initial letter of the name.

The reference to the non-establishment of the chapter at the University of California deserves mention for the fact that it illustrates the then-preva­ lent lack of comity among the different fraternities. The petition from there

384

THE FOURTH CONSTITUTION

had been gotten up by representatives of the other fraternities then at the University of California, with the hope that it would be accepted and our constitution and ritual forwarded to the applicants. It was an attractive petition because the men held most of the prominent offices in college, but the fact that the papers were forwarded to members of the fraternity in San Francisco,who discovered the bad faith of the petitioners frustrated the attempt.

Referring to the appendix containing the notes relating to the defunct chapters, this appendix contains many errors which should be referred to as a matter of historical accuracy.

Beta Prime was not at the Cincinnati Law School, but was at Cincinnati College, of which the law school was a department, and it certainly lived for three years and may even have lived five.

Beta Second was not expelled in 1875, but resigned from the fraternity in 1868, and most of the members and some of the alumni joined Delta Kappa Epsilon as hereinbefore stated. It was re-established in 1882.

Epsilon Prime was not transferred to Centre College, but died from indifference; the chapter at Centre College being also in Kentucky, as was Transylvania, and in the course of time being given the name Epsilon, the notion that it was transferred arose and persisted for a long while.

Zeta Prime at Harvard was not forced to suspend by anti-fraternity laws— because there were no such laws at that time, but died because the members thought that there was no proper material in the institution at that time to perpetuate the chapter. It was revived in 1881, and the charter was withdrawn some years later.

Eta Prime became inactive before the war. The University of North Carolina continued its sessions during the war.

Theta Prime really died from indifference. Anti-fraternity laws exist at Princeton and have existed for many years— but the Beta Theta Pi chap­ ter was not killed by any action on the part of the faculty.

The chapter at Williams, as we have heretofore stated in these notes, did not suspend after a year's trial, as stated, but resigned and joined Alpha Delta Phi. Alpha Zeta Prime was not expelled for disloyalty. It never was prop­ erly established and died from lack of material.

Alpha Eta at Denison never actually ceased to exist. There was always at least one member in attendance, and as soon as opportunity afforded, it became fully active.

Kappa Prime did not go to Williams College, nor join the chapter there, nor were there any anti-fraternity laws at Brown, then or at any other time, as hereinbefore stated. Very soon after its foundation it resigned its charter and became a chapter of Alpha Delta Phi. 1 hese errors were due to placing a reliance upon tradition instead of seeking sources of information which were accurate.

In the Preamble to the new Constitution the month of the foundation of Beta Theta Pi is stated to be October, 1839. A meeting was held in July, 1839, and the first meeting of which minutes were kept was held August

9 , i 839-

Conclusion The convention of 1878 marked the close of an era in the history of the fraternity. The constitution adopted at that time is practically the same as has been in force since. That is, so far as the details of administration and procedure are con­ cerned. Ten years later there occurred a controversy between the fraternity’s officials as selected by the convention and the officials chosen under the laws of Ohio under the provisions of which the fraternity had been incorporated. But this con­ troversy was happily concluded by a victory for the former, and since that time there has been in the fraternity a total dis­ regard of any statutory provisions which might interfere with the fraternity’s efficiency.

In 1879 a new era commenced. The eastern fraternity of Alpha Sigma Chi was absorbed, a rapid and successful invasion of the Eastern colleges was planned and executed, and the ex­ tension of the fraternity was carefully managed.

Shortly after, the finances of the fraternity were thoroughly reorganized and placed upon a proper basis, whereby an adequate income was secured, district reunions were promoted and have become a usual feature of fraternity life, adequate literature was provided for the chapters, and in every way a well-considered scheme for its advancement has been carried out.

No chapter established since 1879 is inactive in 1916.

The minutes of the several conventions since 1878 are to be found in the special numbers of the fraternity magazine of which numerous sets are in existence.

385

INDEX Note.— This index does not include names of persons or colleges.

It is only intended to cover the more prominent and obvious items.

Page

Alumni Chapters........................ 109 Annual Conventions....................79 Anti-Secret S o ciety....................... 8 Badge, secondary......................... 55 Beta Temple................ 107, 109,119 Beta W a ltz .............................54, 60 Biennial Conventions Adopted . . . 45 Brown chapter, desertion o f ........41 By-laws for chapters.................... 37 Catalogue . . 30,38,46, 55, 63, 78, 84, 136, 175, 182,320 Catalogue C u t .............................274 Chapters’ Existence, revelation of .18 Charter, form o f ......................... 209 Code of L a w s ......................270,329 Colleges in 1839............................. 6 Committees, first appointed......... 41 Constitution, The First................ 11 Constitution, The Second.............13 Constitution, Third............. 242, 255 Convention Circular.................. 286 Correspondence ............ 71, 182, 204 Delegates Unaccredited.............. 191 Delta Kappa Epsilon...........140,147 Districts, Beginning of................ 241 Double Memberships.23,66, 151,169 Eastern Chapters........................221 Eligibility to Membership ...........20 Endowment Fund ......................363 First Constitution........................11 Fourth Constitution.................... 375 Fraternity situation in 1839........... 5 General Secretary................ 198, 269

Page

Incorporation.............................329 Initiation, forms of . .36,45,133,226 Laws, provided fo r....................... 62 Magazine— see periodical Membership, E ligibility.............. 20 Michigan Chapter, desertion of . . .81 Naming Chapters......................... 62 Nomenclature of Chapters......... 134 Objects of the Fraternity.............19 Open Constitution...................... 313 Periodical. . . .20,37, 55, 73,131,133, 226, 231,238,269 Presiding C h ap ter....................... 74 Presiding Chapter, adopted......... 25 Priority of Chapters ....................99 Psi U psilon............................. 80,86 Recollections of 1839.................. 247 R itual.............................. 90,92,120 Roll of Honor..........................78,91 Seal................................ 19, 134, 337 Secondary Badge....... 55, 70, 74, 185, 192, 194, 200 Second Constitution ................... 13 Semi-Annual Reports ..................44 Song Book......................78,132,193 Stationery............................. 71, 200 Student’s G a lo p ......................... 177 Temple, B e t a .............. 107, 109, 119 Waltz, Mrs. Hunter’s .............54> 60 Western Reserve, desertion of . . . . 105 Williams Chapter, desertion of . . .41 Wooglin Legend.......................... 17 7 Zeta P si........................................ 93

387