History from The Delta
Conversation
100 Years Ago...
In the October 1919 issue of The Delta, the Beta Chi (Stanford) Chapter’s 25-year history as a chapter was highlighted. Written by chapter founder Carl Lane Clemans, he showcased all the memorable moments when starting the chapter and how it had progressed since. When arriving on campus, Clemans wanted to see if people had an interest in fraternity life or if they were going to be too focused on their studies. He soon came to find out that there were men who wanted to organize a petition. The petitions were sent out by telegraph and then installation ceremonies began at the library on old Frenchman’s place for the original 22 collegiate members in 1917. After the first year, the chapter realized a house would be necessary. After much consideration and meetings with the bank and contractors they began work on a new house.
50 Years Ago...
The Winter 1969 issue of The Delta recapped the Centennial Pilgrimages. The events held were in honor of Sigma Nu’s Centennial and brothers took part in traveling to the gravesites of Founders James Frank Hopkins, Greenfield Quarles, and James McIlvaine Riley. The first stop was Mabelvale Cemetery, near Little Rock, Ark., to the gravesite of James Frank Hopkins. It was the 124th anniversary of his birth on December 30th and 150 brothers were present. Hopkins grandson, Brother Ben Hopkins (Arkansas), was present with his family as well as Julian H. White (Southwestern) who was the pastor who delivered the invocation, benediction, and prayer in memory of the Founders. Hopkins’ marker was under construction for years but was landscaped, cleaned, and lacquered before the ceremony. The second stop of the pilgrimage tour took place in Helena, Ark. at the gravesite of Greenfield Quarles on April 1st, the 122nd anniversary of his birth. The last stop was in St. Louis on May 16th, at the gravesite of James McIlvaine Riley on the 120th anniversary of his birth. Regent Herman B Wells (Indiana) was the speaker at each location and included memorial prayers, readings, and the placement of a commemorative wreath on each grave.
25 Years Ago…
The The Epsilon Beta Chapter at Drury College celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding in 1919 with a special event on December 17, 1994. The weekend began with an open house for alumni and guests, followed by an evening banquet at University Plaza. Past Regent Flavius B. Freeman was honored at the event and Regent Michael D. Long was recognized for his service. There were several notable alumni in attendance such as Sam Freeman (Arkansas), Mo Littlefield (Maine), and more. Past Commander Scott Preston introduced Chris Deck as his successor and the history of the chapter was presented by Lt. Commander Matt Weaver. Presented at the event was one significant artifact from Founder Greenfield Quarles expressing his regret of not being able to attend the installation. The evening was a night to remember and showcased the remarkable history of the 75 years of Sigma Nu at Drury College.