Part 2 of Omega's History - The Rattle, March 1933
As appeared in The Rattle - Vol. XXI No. 6 - March 1933
HOW OMEGA WAS DEVELOPED
This second installment completes the history of Omega Chapter, published in The Rattle of Theta Chi not only because of its interest, but to aid other chapter historians in the most important work of preparing the record of their own organizations…
(continued from the January 1933 issue)
The Coat of Arms was designed in the shape of a plain shield measuring about four and one-fourth inches in width and about seven inches in height. The body of it was divided into three segments. In the upper left portion was a lamp of knowledge in white on a red background and in the upper right section a skull and cross-bones in white on a background of black. In the lower part of the shield was a white candlestick having seven lighted candles. This was on a background of gold. Separating the two upper divisions from the lower was a white band in which there were seven gold stars equally spaced. Crowning the top was a rope in natural colors containing seven segments with an opal above it, reflecting the white light rays into an arch of a rainbow, which was in natural colors. Around the lower edge and along the sides of the seal itself, was a scrolled ribbon in gold containing the black lettering.
The coat of Arms and the elements of it; even the coloring making up the various parts was conceived with one thought in mind. This was the bringing to the mind of the brothers parts of the ritual and the ideals for which Phi Tau Alpha stood. The coat of arms was designed by Raymond B. Poeppel '20.
The insignia or badge of Phi Tau Alpha was very distinctive in form and design. It had eight converse sides. In the center there was a white sorrel with upturned curls on which the Greek letters ØTA were inscribed in gold. The background of the pin was black enamel. Above the scroll were seven gold stars and below it there was a dagger, and a key crossed and entwined with a rope, all in gold. The badge was set or surrounded with sixteen jewels, four opals and twelve pearls. The opals were set at the four quarters of the badge and the pearls equally spaced between them.
The elements on the badge were symbolic of portions of the ritual and were placed thereon to be a constant reminder to the brother wearing it what his fraternity represented. To design a fraternity badge which is disincentive and easily recognizable, containing insights represented of the fraternity and yet keep a high degree of aesthetic proportion and appearance was a difficult task. George W. Chapman '20 designed the badge with the aid of suggestions from the committee.
The newly created fraternity had quite a definite aim, which was for each brother to strive to attain perseverance in every undertaking, ambition for everything that is noble, worthy and good, toleration toward others’ views and thought for his brothers, learning if the highest degree in his field, perfection in manhood and honesty in his dealings with his fellow-man.
In general way the ideal of Phi Tau Alpha was a fraternity in which all the brothers should practice kindness and toleration towards one another and should attain as nearly as possible that brotherly feeling that exists between brothers of the same percentage. In doing this each should ever aspire to be considerate of the rights and opinions of others and never let any act go undone which would bring happiness and joy to another.
The charter members of Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity follow:
Clifford Beaven '21, Ellwood Cassel '19, George Chapman '20, Francis J. Doan '19, Charles Frederickson Jr. '20, Frederick J. Fuchs, Sidney Morgan '21, Emil J. Olbrich '15, Emil A. Petzold '24, Anthony Pickard '21, Raymond B. Poeppel '20, Ellwood Rittenhouse '19, Arthur Rosenberger, William O. Schell, Walter E. Segl '21, William Shaw Jr. '21, John R. Skeen '21, Winfield F. Smith '20, Robert Stevens '18, William Thompson '19, Frederick T. Vansant '20
It was the consensus of opinion of the founders of Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity that the organization was a fraternal composition of high idealism, which have endured a long time had it not been quickly absorbed by a national organization. The national fieldmen representing these national organizations, who investigated thoroughly every phase of Phi Tau Alpha were not singing in their praise for the constitution-by-laws and ritual. Their criticisms where directed at out financial system.
One of the great welding forces in the background all through the strife of changing the form of the organization was the thought and hope that ultimately it would become a part of a worthwhile national fraternity. This is evidenced by the fact that considerably in advance of the completion of the Phi Tau Alpha organization, even before the Charter from the college faculty was granted, there was a special committee consisting of Raymond Poeppel '20, George W. Chapman '20 and Clifford Beaven '21 appointed to investigate ways and means of becoming a Chapter of a national fraternity and select if possible one which could be petitioned. This was on February 25, 1918 and taken from the minutes of the old Northeast Club.
This committee did not accomplish much in the way of doing anything definite during the remainder of that semester, 1917-1918. It had one meeting during the summer 1918 and the list of available fraternities was narrowed down to one, Theta Chi. The intimate acquaintance of Raymond Poeppel '20 and William Thompson '19 with a number of Theta Chi at the University of the Pennsylvania had a great deal to do with this decision, but the character and standing of Theta Chi as compared to other national fraternities was carefully considered.
“IN THE EARLY DAYS
Board at the Northeast Club was $3.50 and room $1.25 a week. On the 11th of January, 1915, a motion was carried to levy an assessment of 5 cents a week on members having extra lights in their room, and 5 cents for the use of an electric iron. On the 18th, the chairman of the House Committee announced trails for those men who desired to tend the furnace. A motion made to permit smoking at the meal time was defeated on March 27. Preparations for a spring house party resulted in the securing of a three-piece orchestra, consisting of drums, clarinet, and violin for three nights at $15.00 a night, with an assessment upon the members of $2.50 for the entire weekend. On Saturday night all N. E. men participated in a cider feed “somewhere in the woods.” This was on September 3, 1916. Even the caterer had his troubles in those days; at one time he protested against the members eating at irregular hours, and this probably accounts for a decision to impose a fine of 10 cents upon anyone who despoiled the kitchen at times not permitted.”
Negotiations with Theta Chi were started promptly and in the fall of 1918 when the members returned to the fraternity house, which had been taken over by the government as an army barracks, these communications were continued and addressed to the National Secretary of Theta Chi, who then was Frederick Ladue. There is a minute of the meeting, November 17, 1918, which mentions a communication from Frederick Ladue, as having been received. It probably was encouraging for there is another minute of the meeting saying the First Pledges to a new chapter House Fund were made. The securing of a better Chapter House was ever in the minds of the brothers as something to look forward to.
Very definite steps were now taken towards the establishment of a Chapter of Theta Chi. Investigating committee from the Grand Chapter were received and printed petition was published, and distributed over the country, to various existing Chapters of Theta Chi. After these had gone out, more representatives of Theta Chi visited the fraternity, some announced and some unannounced. They were from the Grand Chapter and from nearby Chapters, such as Dickinson's Pi chapter, Cornell's Lambda chapter and the University of Pennsylvania's Kappa chapter..
On February 25, 1919 there was received a communication from Mr. Frederick Ladue, National Secretary of Theta Chi, stating that the petition of the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity had been officially accepted by the Theta Chi Fraternity and that Phi Tau Alpha would be established as Omega Chapter in that organization.
The last meeting of the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity was held on March 10, 1919 and on March 14, 1919 Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity became Omega Chapter of Theta Chi
THE START OF OMEGA CHAPTER (click here to see photos and more)
by George W. Chapman
The Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity was just a means to and end but it served that end well. Form the start, the chief reason for the establishment of Phi Tau Alpha was so that the fraternity could be in a position to petition for membership in a national fraternity. As the Northeast Club this could not be done, for the Northeast Club was restricted to graduates of the Northeast High School.
With the establishment of Phi Tau Alpha immediate steps towards affiliation with a national organization were taken. In fact these steps started one month before the start of Phi Tau Alpha, with the appointment of a Special Committee on February 25, 1918 consisting of Raymond Poepple, George W.Chapman '20 and Clifford E. Beaven '21. This committee was instructed to investigate national fraternities and to consider ways and means of petitioning.
There was much discussion during the early meeting of Phi Tau Alpha on the national fraternity question and the fraternity seemed to be about evenly divided on the subject, and many of the Alumni showed little or no interest. As no progress was being made it fell on the shoulders of a small group led by the Special Committee to individually sell the national fraternity idea to a sufficient number of the members so that when the question was voted on it would be passed. This was finally accomplished after a great deal of work on the part of a few, a favorable vote was taken and the Special Committee instructed to proceed with plans for selecting a National Fraternity and working up a petition.
After much reading of Beard’s Manual, the names of some ten or twelve national fraternities were selected as possibilities. For various reasons this list was narrowed to four or five which it was believed would be interested in installing a chapter at the Pennsylvania State College. Among them was Theta Chi.
To Raymond B. Poeppel '20 and William C. Thompson '19 should get credit for the final selection of Theta Chi as the fraternity to be petitioned. Of the fraternities remaining on the list Theta Chi was the oldest, had the best record, was of high repute and seemed to be the best choice. Much of the information on Theta Chi was secured through a friend of Raymond B. Poeppel '20 and William C. Thompson '19 who was a member of Theta Chi at the University of Pennsylvania and it was through the information secured by and on the recommendation of these two men that Phi Tau Alpha voted to petitionTheta Chi Fraternity for a chapter at the Pennsylvania State College.
The National Council of Theta Chi was communicated with and it was found that they would be interested in having a chapter at Pennsylvania State College, Phi Tau Alpha was visited by Frederick Ladue, National Secretary of Theta Chi and by representatives of University of Dickinson's Pi chapter, University of Pennsylvania's Kappa Chapter and Cornell's Lambda chapter. Reports turned into the Grand chapter by these visitors must have been favorable for in November 1918 Phi Tau Alpha was advised by Theta Chi to prepare a petition and submit it in printed form to Theta Chi Fraternity in sufficient quantity to be distributed to the various chapters for voting on.
The special committee quickly worked up the petition, had it printed and sent to the Grand Chapter of Theta Chi under date of December 2, 1918.
The petition itself was worded as follows: Delivering that Affiliation with a well established and well reputed National Fraternity would be most desirous and believing The Theta Chi Fraternity to possess the qualities, we, the members of the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity of the Pennsylvania State College, do hereby respectfully petition for consideration as a Chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity.
For the Fraternity
George W. F. Chapman, President
The petition booklet included a short history of the Northeast Club and the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity, letters of recommendation from Edwin E. Sparks, President of the College, R. L. Sackett, Dean of the School of Engineering and R. L. Watts, Dean of the School of Agriculture, lists of selective and alumni members with college activities, a brief history of the Pennsylvania State College, a list of fraternities at Penn State and pictures of the petitioning group, the House and the College.
The letters of recommendation are interesting historical records and are herewith reproduced.
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE COLLEGE - State College, PA.
Office of the President - November 18, 1918
The organization of students of the Pennsylvania State College known as the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity is worthy of recognition. Their members have furnished a considerable portion of officers in the United States Army. Their academic standing I believe to be above average of the college. Their house so far as I can learn has been conducted in an orderly manner. I recommend them for membership in the Theta Chi National Fraternity.
Edwin E. Sparks
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE COLLEGE, State College, PA - November 22, 1918
School of Engineering
Dean’s Office
Secretary, Theta Chi Fraternity
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir;
Mr. Ellwood B. Cassel advises me that a Club, formerly known as the Northeast Club and later as the Phi Tau Alpha, is applying for a charter as a chapter of the Theta Chi Fraternity.
I know Mr. Cassel personally and can assure you of his high character and exceptional standing as a student.
Two of the juniors, named George W. Chapman and Frederickson, are in the Department of Civil Engineering and have made satisfactory records. So far as these students are concerned, I can vouch for their quality.
I believe that in general the fraternity has a good reputation for scholarship and character.
Yours Truly,
R. L. Sackett
Dean
School of Engineering
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE COLLEGE
School of Agriculture and Experiment Station
State College, PA.
Office of Dean and Director - November 15, 1918
My Dear Sir:
I have been advised that the Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity of the Pennsylvania State College, which is a local Chapter, has applied for admission to the Theta Chi Fraternity, of which I understand you are Secretary.
I have known several members of this Fraternity since its organization at State College and it is a pleasure to say that we hold the members, as well as the organization, which they represent, in high esteem and recommend the Chapter for admission to your National Fraternity. The men have high standing in the institution and we believe they will be a credit to your fraternity.
Yours Very Truly,
H. L. Watts
Dean and Director
With the petition in the hands of Theta Chi there ensued a wait that seemed much longer than it actually was.
On February 25, 1919 information was received from Fred LaDue, National Secretary of Theta Chi, to the effect that our petition was favorably voted on the various Chapters of Theta Chi and favorably acted upon by the Grand Chapter of the Fraternity and that we would shortly receive official notice to this effect. Official notice was later received that a Charter had granted a Chapter to Phi Tau Alpha on February 19, 1919 by the Grand Chapter of Theta Chi and that formal installation would take place on March 14 and 15, 1919. It is interesting to note that another local fraternity at Penn State was petitioning Theta Chi at the same time, as was Phi Tau Alpha.
The installation of Phi Tau Alpha Fraternity as Omega Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity began at 7:25 on the evening of March 14, 1919. The Installation Committee was composed of Fred W. LaDue, Iota, ’12, Chairman Herbert D. Leary, Gamma, ’10, Barie R. Bernfford, Delta, ’09, W. Howard Gottlieb, Kappa, ’19, Clarence R. Anderson, Pi, ’08, and J. Henry Beasley, Kappa, ’15. The installation, a very impressive ceremony, preceded smoothly and as its conclusion the Charter was presented to the Chapter. The Charter Members of Omega Chapter were as follows:
Fred. F. Bastian '22, Ellwood. J. Rittenhouse '19, Clifford E. Beaven '21, Joseph E. Rowe '10, Ellwood B. Cassel '19, Albert F. Schoeppe '18, George W. Chapman '20, Walter E. Segl '21, Charles Frederickson Jr. '20, William W. Seltzer '21, Fred J. Fuchs, Walter B. Shaw '21, Maurice E. Kressley '15, William J. Shaw Jr. '21, Donald E. Magill '22, John R. Skeen '21, Murrell D. McKinstry '20, Winfield F. Smith '20, Russell B. Nesbitt '14, William L. Sowden Jr. '22, Robert E. Ockford '22, Ralph D. Stauffer '21, Walter B. Petzold '18, William C. Thompson '19, Anthony V. Pickard '21, Frederick T. Vansant '20, Raymond B. Poeppel '20, Hugo E. Zetterlof '22
All the Chapter Members listed above and in additional Theodore G. Smith '21 were initiated onto Theta Chi Fraternity at this time.
With the installation ceremony completed, election of officers was held and Winfield F. Smith '20 was elected the first president of Omega Chapter. The meeting adjourned at midnight to be continued the next day.
Saturday afternoon, March 15, was spent in the exemplification of degree work Hugo E. Zetterlof '22 being the candidate.
The installation banquet was held in the Chapter House on the evening of March 15 and was characterized by the following menu; Penn State Cocktail, Center County Consommé, Baked Shingletown Trout, Roast Chicken, S.A.T.C. Potatoes, Nittany Valley Filling, Green Navy Peas, Co-ed Sauce, Old Main Salad, Ice Cream a la Phi Tau Alpha, Lemont Bite, Bonbons au Gorge, Danville Nuts, State College Demitasse and Bellefonte Central Smokes. Such a menu had never been seen before or since but was evidently greatly enjoyed by these present. The postprandial exercise were handled by Albert P. Schoeppe '18 who acted as Toastmaster in his inimitable way. Short talks were given by members of the Installation Committee and by members if the Active Chapter. The Banquet concluded with the singing of the Chapter Song, “Come Omega” and “It is to Thee Dear Old Theta Chi.”
Following the banquet a smoker and reception was held in the Chapter House, which was attended by representatives from the various fraternities and members of the faculty.
The next day marked the departure of the Installation Committee and Omega Chapter settled down to more normal existence and to enjoy the new sensation of being the “Baby Chapter” of Theta Chi.
OMEGA’S FIRST DECADE (click here to see photos and more)
by George W. Chapman
It is a more or less difficult matter to write a history covering the period of the first ten years of Omega Chapter from 1919 to 1929, when the records show that during this period of time nothing of great importance transpired.
The decade started off with the biggest event in the Chapter’s history, the installation of Omega Chapter and closed with the start of a project that meant the fulfillment of long cherished hopes, the start of Omega’s new home.
In between these two events is just the every day story of an active chapter of a college fraternity whose members were taking part to the fullest in college affairs and college activities.
In May 1919 Omega had its first contact with the fraternity at large when a committee consisting of George W. Chapman '20, Clifford E. Beaven '21 and Fuchs helped in the installation of Alpha Beta at the University of Pittsburgh.
In October 1919 Omega was admitted to the Inter-Fraternity Council at Penn State.
During this entire period the thought foremost in the minds of all our members was a new house. The minutes are full of discussion on this and various ways and means for building and financing the new house were discussed and passed. One of the first of these was the so-called ”5-10 Plan.” This provided that all members upon initiation sign five notes for ten dollars each payable one per year for the first five years after graduation, the money to go towards the house fund. This plan was in force two or three years and was fair success. Its weak point lay in the fact that it was almost impossible to collect on these notes and many Alumni never made payments.
In 1926 the Building and Loan proposition was brought up as a means to secure money for the new house and all active members were accessed a certain amount per month. This continued for a number of years and the equity in the Building and Loan turned over to the Alumni when the House was actually started. This equity amounted to $2,778.00 and was a big help in the financing of the House.
On various occasions when the possibilities of building a new house looked discouraging, steps were taken to rent various houses suitable for use but all of these plans fell through, many for financial reasons. Consideration was also given at times to the purchase of various fraternity houses, but lack of finances made this impossible.
Late in the spring of 1929 the House at 251 S. Allen Street, which had been the home of the chapter since November 1915, was sold to a local fraternity. This made it necessary for the Alumni group to proceed immediately with construction of the new house. Fortunately both the building and financial plans were all worked out, although the intention had been not to start the house until 1930.
Thus the end of the first decade saw Omega out of their old home and with a new home under construction.
During these ten years there are many things, which should be mentioned. June 1920 saw the first issue of the “Omegaphone”, the Chapter publication which is published there of four times a year and distributed to the Alumni of Omega and to the other chapters in Theta Chi. The credit for originally naming the publication goes to Walter B. Shaw '21, 1921. The first issue was a four-page affair, letterhead size, printed in newspaper style. Subsequent issues have come out in various forms, some printed in booklet form with a cover, others being mimeographed and clipped together. As the years have passed the Omegaphone has improved and is now considered one the foremost chapter publications in the fraternity.
In 1925 the Christmas tree custom was started, and each year just before the Christmas holiday, a Christmas party is held in the Chapter House at which all members have a “big” time, usually being entertained by the freshman. A Christmas tree with gifts is one the important features.
A cup for the best all around man in the chapter was provided in October 1927. This man is selected yearly by popular vote and his name inscribed on the cup, which remains in the possession of the chapter.
In February 1929, the chapter decided to abolish the so-called “Hell Week” which had been a part of the initiation proceedings of most fraternities. This was a big step in the right direction and it is worthy to note that Theta Chi was a leader in the movement, which since had wide acceptance.
During this ten-year period the Chapter has been on the upward grade in regard to scholarship standing. In June 1929 the chapter was second highest of all fraternities in scholarship rating, first place being held by a professional fraternity.
Omega Chapter has been well represented in Campus affairs and in college activities. Members have been on all the publications in dramatics and in athletics a have held membership in many honorary fraternities.
Appreciative credit is due Omega’s Faculty Advisors, Russell B. Hesbitt served faithfully and well during most of this period and Francis J. Doan '19 carried on from the time the Brother Hesbitt was forced to resign because of ill health.
Both Mother’s Clubs and Dad’s Clubs have been organized and are taking active interest in the affairs of the Chapter. Alumni meetings are held at the Chapter House on Mother’s Day and Dad’s Day.
In closing this story of the first ten years of Omega Chapter we cannot do so without giving to the entire to the entire group of members during this period for their persistent perseverance towards the goal of a new house. Certainly it is largely because of their interest and efforts that the Alumni were forced to take action and make the new house a reality.
STARTING THE SECOND DECADE (click here to see photos and more)
by George W. Chapman
With the fall of 1929 Omega Chapter started a handicapped existence because of the fact it was a fraternity without a house. The old house had been given up and the new house was under construction.
In spite of this handicap Omega was able to pledge a satisfactory number of new men and to maintain a good organization.
Meetings were held in a rented room at the State College Hotel weekly. Arrangements were made with one of the restaurants whereby the Chapter was able to eat lunch and dinner together daily. A private room was used for this so that it made these meals as close to actual Chapter life as possible.
In March 1930 the new house was finished and it was a great satisfaction to all to be able again to have a place to cal home.
Credit should be given to Max C. Suerken '30, president during this period, and the other officers for the highly satisfactory manner in which they carried on the organization of the Chapter under difficulties.
The latter part of March 1930 witnessed a big Alumni reception and open house in the new home. About thirty Alumni returned for this occasion and the new house was a revelation to all.
In May the Chapter held what they termed the “Formal Opening”, a two day house party with many out of town guests.
Thus the Second Decade of Omega Chapter has been well started. With a full knowledge of what is termed “The New House Slump” the Chapter is making a special effort for the improvement along all lines and there is no doubt but that success will mark these efforts.
The past is now history. The future is freed with the firm conviction that those to come will carry on as well or better than there who have gone before.
THETA CHI OF PENN STATE, INC. (click here to see photos and more)
by John A Irwin, ’16
After the Omega Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity was well established, with its natural and normal growth and advancement came thoughts of a new Home affording better living conditions, better club room facilities and a house to be comparable with the other National Fraternities on the campus of Penn State. These thoughts soon grew to demands and the aid of the Alumni was enlisted. The Active chapter had purchased a parcel of land fronting 85 feet on Allen Street at the Northeast corner of Prospect Avenue and Allen Street, title of which was held in Omega Chapter Theta Chi Fraternity.
During the years 1924-1925 a parcel of land in State College, known as the Locust Lane section, was developed by the local businessmen into a fraternity section and the tendency of Theta Chi was to get on the bandwagon and obtain a lot in this group. Brother Boyce Morgan '24 then president of the local chapter negotiated with local real estate men for the purchase of a lot and endeavored to arrange with local builder for the erection and financing of the house. However, these negotiations did not materialize and there was some sentiment among the Alumni not to dispose of the lot at Prospect Avenue and Allen Street.
During these times various meetings were being held in Philadelphia where a majority of the Alumni members were located. These meetings were well attended and enthusiasm was running high. Brothers Maurice E. Kressly '15 and Ellwood B. Cassel '19 were preparing plans for a new house and Brothers Walter E. Segl '21 and Raymond B. Poeppel '20 were very active obtaining subscriptions for bonds with the hope that their efforts would lead to the starting of the construction of the hew house. The plans for the new house were completed and presented to the Active Chapter as well as the Alumni group and were well received, but the plans for financing could not be consummated and the long hope for start was postponed indefinitely.
As a result of all these events however, the Alumni group soon realized their lack of organization and the necessity of forming a body properly incorporated under the Laws of Pennsylvania so that the property held by the Active Chapter together with any property which might be acquired at a future date might be vested in a legal body, and that business could be transacted in a business like way.
Up until this time the Alumni Association, through lack of organization, had not been able to properly function. Started February 1, 1920 as the Omega Alumni Association, it had progressed more or less as an inactive organization, all action that was taken representing the work of a few individuals rather than the association as a whole. The presidency was honorary rather than elective, each active chapter president becoming president of the Omega Alumni Association upon graduation. Winfield F. Smith '20 was the first president, followed is succession by George W. Chapman and Ralph D. Stauffer. This arrangement was than changed and the president and other officers were elected.
Late in 1924 a committee was appointed composed of Brothers Walter E. Segl '21, Clifford E. Beaven '21, William B. Shaw '21, Frederick T. Vansant '20, Albert F. Schoeppe '18, and John A. Irwin '16 to petition for a charter. This committee sought the counsel of Brother Frank Sehrenk of Kappa Chapter, then counselor for the Grand Chapter. Brother Sehrenk advised immediate action along the lines mentioned and owing to pressure of business at the time Brother Sehrenk turned the committee over to Brother H. R. Faries also of Kappa Chapter, to prepare the necessary papers, who is due course of Law procured the charter of Theta Chi of Penn State.
As a matter of interest and record the Charter, Degree and Recording is herewith included in the history, but will not be reproduced in THE RATTLE. Two conditions, however are of general interest. They are the eight and nigh and read as follows: Eighth: The yearly income of the corporation from other sources than real estate shall not exceed the sum of twenty thousand ($20,000); Ninth: No intoxicating liquors of any kind shall be sold or consumed upon many premises owned or occupied by the corporation for any purpose whatsoever.”
Theta Chi of Penn State, a Corporation (see Article of Incorporation) of the first class under the laws of the State of Pennsylvania became a reality on the 29th day of April 1925, with the principal office located at 813 Bailey Building, Philadelphia, PA.
On May 18th, 1925, the first meeting of the Corporation was held at which time officers of he corporation were elected as follows: Directors, John A. Irwin, Walter A. Segl, Clifford E. Beaven, Walter B. Shaw, Frederick T. Vansant, Albert F. Schoeppe, W. Boyce Morgan, Russell B. Nesbitt, Marshal M. Drake
The first meeting of the Board of Directors was held on the 2nd day of June, 1925 at which time the following officers were elected for the ensuing year as follows: President, John A. Irwin, Vice President: Clifford E. Beaven, Secretary, Walter E. Segl, Treasurer, Raymond B. Poeppel.
The first meeting of the members of the Corporation was held the 17th day of September 1925, when approval of the action taken by the incorporation was obtained and the regular routine of Theta Chi of Penn State was inaugurated.
In the Autumn of 1925 Brothers Marshal M. Drake '26 and Otto P. Meyers '29 became members of the board of Directors by virtue of their office, replacing Brothers W. Boyce Morgan '24 and Marshal M. Drake '26 respectively.
The demands for the new house were ever present and Brother Anderson of Pi Chapter and member of the faculty, cooperating with the Active Chapter, learned that Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity would be willing to sell 40 feet of their property adjacent to ours if a figure agreeable to both parties could be arrived at. As a result of this information a special meeting of the Board of Directors was called on the 29th day of January 1926 and after discussing the matter the President was authorized to negotiate with Phi Sigma Kappa for the purchase of this 40 feet on Allen Street, the purchase price not to exceed $1500.00, including all improvements. As a result of this authority the President consummated negotiations with Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity and received the necessary approval of the corporation at the regular meeting held on the 23rd day of October 1926.
The Fraternity was then in possession of a parcel of ground with 125 feet frontage on Allen Street, and with both Phi Sigma Kappa property and our property carrying restrictions for erection of buildings for the club house purposes. These restrictions being placed for a period of 25 years. This assures the Fraternity of having only two buildings in the entire block between Fairmount Avenue and Prospect Avenue, and with the Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity house already erected there was no about the immediate conditions in this block.
At the regular meeting of the Corporation on the 22nd day of October 1927, the Board of Directors obtained authority to have plans and specifications prepared for a new house. These plans and specifications were prepared and at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors on the 27th day of October 1928 it was voted to proceed with the construction of the new house in accordance with the plans and specifications as prepared. It was therefore resolved that the President appoint a Building Committee whose duties it would be to make the awards, negotiate contracts for the furnishings and its equipment. Approval of this procedure was obtained at the regular stated meeting of the Corporation held in State College the 27th day of October 1928. At this meeting officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows: president J. A. Irwin; vice president, E. B. Cassel; Secretary, W. C. Thompson; treasurer, F. T. Vansant; directors, E B. Cassel, W. C. Thompson, W. H. Irons. The following directors remaining in office: W. E. Segl, R. B. Nesbitt. The following by virtue of their office become directors: J. A. Irwin, F. T. Vansant, R. L. Yanish, O. P. Meyers
The year elapsing between October 1926 and October 1927 was quiet except for the demands of the active chapter for better quarters.
At the regular meeting of the corporation on the 22nd day of October, 1927, the Board of Directors obtained authority to have plans and specifications prepared for a new house. These plans and specifications were prepared, and at the regular meeting of the Board of Di-rectors on the 27th day of October, 1928, it was voted to proceed with the construction of the new house in accordance with the plans and specifications as pre-pared. It was therefore resolved that the president appoint a Building Committee whose duties it would be to make the awards, and negotiate contracts for the furnishing and its equipment. Approval of this procedure was obtained at the regular stated meeting of the corporation held in State College the 27th day of October, 1928.
At this meeting officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows: president, J. A. Irwin; vice president, George W. Chapman; secretary, W. C. Thompson; treasurer, N. C. Horner; directors, E. B. Cassel, W. C. Thompson, Z.V. H. Irons. Directors remaining in office were A. F. Schoeppe and R. B. Nesbitt. Directors by virtue of office were ,l. A. Irwin, N. C. Horner, R. A. Gueder, and M. C. Seurkin.
During the years of 1928 and 1929 the house leased by the active chapter was sold to a local fraternity and the active chapter was given notice that they would be without a house at the end of the college year. This information was transmitted to the officer of the alumni corporation, and a special meeting of the members of the corporation for the purpose of gaming their sent to increase the bonded indebtedness of the corporation from nothing to $30,000, and at the same time to obtain the approval of the changing of the principal office of the corporation from 813 Bailey Building, Philadelphia, Pa., to State College, Pa. This special meeting of the members of the Corporation was called for the 15th day of July, 1929, at which time the members of the corporation authorized the Board of Directors to increase the bonded indebtedness from nothing to $30,000. With this authority the Corporation was in a position to proceed with the erection of the new house, and its construction began in August, 1929.
At the regular stated meeting of the corporation held the 215th day of October, 1929, the members gave their approval of increasing the bonded indebtedness; of the corporation from $30,000 to $50,000. Officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows: president, John A. Irwin; vice president, George W. Chapman; secretary, W. C. Thompson; treasurer, N. C. Homer; directors, J. A. Irwin, N. C. Horner, W. B. Shaw, R. B. Nesbitt. Directors by virtue of office, were M. C. Seurkin and D. B. Decker.
At the regular stated meeting of Theta Chi of Penn State held in State College, Pa., Saturday, October 25, 1930, the following officers were elected: President, George W. Chapman; vice president, R. A. Gruder; secretary, J. A. Irwin; treasurer, N. C. Horner; directors: J. A. Irwin, E. B. Cassel, F. P. Greiner. Directors remaining in office were W. B. Shaw and R. B. Nesbitt, while those by virtue of office were G. W. Chapman, N. C. Horner, D. B. Decker. and K. Paige.
Omega's New Home - 523 South Allen St, State College, PA
OMEGA’S NEW HOME (click here to see photos and more)
by Norman C. Horner
On March 1st, 1930, Omega Chapter took possession of it’s new home. Thus was brought to a successful conclusion a building program (see photos below), which had been worked on for more than ten years.
The house is located on Allen Street, one of the main streets of the town, and is five blocks from the main entrance to the College Campus. The lot a 125 feet on the front and 85 feet deep and takes up a half block, the other half being occupied by the Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity. The house is built on slope and faces the mountains at the south. Because of this slope there is no possibility of future building cutting of the view towards the mountains.
Georgian architecture was used in the design of the house, which is built of solid brick and tile with steel beams, heavy timbers, and hardwood floors. It is considered one of the best built and beet deigned fraternity houses in the town.
Chapter Living Room
The house consists of four stories, In the basement or ground floor is the kitchen, store room, boiler room, maids' room, dining room, and chapter room. Owing to the slope on which the house is built, the dining room is brightly lighted, having french doors, on two sides. A large fireplace is located at one end of the room. Round tables are used. Eighty persons can be seated at one time.
The chapter room on the ground floor is is so located that it is cut off from the rat of the house and is admirably suited for its purpose.
On the first floor is a large reception hall, which opens on one side to the clubroom or lounge and on the other side to the music room. A massive fireplace is at the far end of the clubroom.
Opening from the reception hall is a combination cardroom and library capable of holding four tables. Book cases holding the chapter's collection of books cover the walls. A lavatory is connected to this room. Next to the card room is the guest room with private bath and twin beds for the use of visiting parents, chaperones, and other guests. Telephone booth and coat closet are located to the right and left of the entrance door. All the rooms are luxuriously furnished, the clubroom having four huge davenports, and the music room a victrola and a baby grand piano.
Chapter Dining Room
The second and third floors are identical, each having ten bedrooms with double deck beds, study tables, and closets. There is a large wash room on each floor, equipped with a shower baths.
A great deal of work has been put on the lawn which is now in fine condition. Some shrubbery has been planted and when more planting has been done, the house will have a very pretty setting. There is a driveway at the rear and a place for parking cars.
The total valuation of the house, lot, and furnishings is $65,000. The first mortgage of $30,000 was taken by Peoples National Bank of Stat College. The second mortgage in the amount of $20,000 was covered by a bond issue in the form of one hundred dollar bonds. Many of these bonds were purchased by alumni, actives, and friends of the fraternity. These bonds carry 6 1/2% interest, and a certain number will be retired each year until the second mortgage is paid off. The last $5,000 worth of the second mortgage bonds was taken by the National Board of Trustees of Theta Chi Fraternity.
The lot, which is valued at $7,500 has been owned for some years by the chapter, a small additional piece having been purchased more recently.
It is anticipated that the second mortgage will be paid off in considerably less than ten years. Payments on the first mortgage start ten years after the house was started.
When the house was started, the active chapter turned over to the alumni a building and loan account amounting to $2,278, which was a big help.
Just prior to the inert of building, a building and loan program was inaugurated in the alumni group. The plan was for each alumnus to pay one dollar per month n this building and loan, the shares to be held by the Alumni Association. This plan net with fine success and brought in approximately sixty dollars a month. This is the only contribution of any nature that was solicited in building the house. Walter B. Shaw is the person responsible for the evolution and success of this plan, and the alumni are greatly indebted to him for his efforts.
With the exception of notes from alumni amounting to about $3,000, the Alumni Association no obligations other than the first and second mortgages, and these notes will be paid off in the near future.
The title to the house, lot, and furnishings is held by the Alumni Association under the name of Theta Chi of Penn State, a corporation of the first class under the laws of Pennsylvania. The furnishings will be turned over to the active chapter at a later date, but the title to the house and lot will continue to be held by the corporation.
The expenses of the house are so budgeted that the rent, which is paid on a yearly basis, takes care of interest payments on the mortgages and a retirement fund.
In closing, the editor wishes to pay a tribute to John A. Irwin, '16, and Norman C. Horner, '16, for their efforts in building and financing this house. It is certain that without the work done by these men, Omega would not now have a new home. Both men used a great deal of their personal time and money in this enterprise.
The working out of the plane and modifications and the superintending of the building was taken care of by John Irwin. Norman Horner handled the financing from every angle and disposed of many of the bonds.
The active and alumni members of Omega Chapter realize and deeply appreciate the untiring, successful efforts of these two men, and while the appreciation will probably never be fully shown, join each other in simply saying "Thanks." These two men have best of all exemplified the teachings of dear old Theta Chi.
OMEGA CHAPTER NEWS
by John A. Fay
Pennsylvania State College, Feb. 27. — On Sunday, February 26, Omega initiated four men into Theta Chi. Informal initiation was held from Sunday, February 19 until the following Wednesday. Initiation was completed on the following Thursday and Sunday. The proceedings were climaxed with a formal banquet, which was greatly enjoyed Speeches were given, including one from a member of each of the four classes. The men initiated were: Franklin Hudson Pritchard, Jr., Erie; Thomas Holman White, Robert Townsend Corely, and Samuel Newman Baxter, Jr., Philadelphia.
Maxwell C. Suerken, Omega, '29, stopped for a visit last weekend before returning to New York from a visit at his home in Erie.
Charles Hammond, Omega, '21, was a visitor two weeks ago. He is playing independent basketball, having gained a great deal of success with the Penn State varsity last year.
Omega is progressing very well in a contract bridge tournament sponsored by the Interfraternity Council. Thus far the team has successfully survived the second round and will play the third round the latter part of the week.
John Shwenk is a candidate for manager of the gym team, and Samuel Baxter is a second assistant baseball manager.