Call Number:

RG6.Q017

Repository:

Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College

Extent:

0.1 linear ft. (2 folders)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

[[Indicate the cited item or series here], RG6/Q-017, Swarthmore College Archives, Phi Sigma Kappa Records, Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College

Date:

1958-1971 (inclusive)

Creator:

Kappa Sigma Pi (Swarthmore College)

Abstract:

Kappa Sigma Pi was the Pi Chapter of the national fraternity Kappa Sigma until 1962 when it was suspended on charges of "attempting to involve other chapters in organizing to defy some of the Kappa Sigma basic principles." The local folded in 1971 due to low membership and financial debt. This small collection contains material pertaining to its last years.

Kappa Sigma was the first national fraternity to be established at Swarthmore College, chartered in 1888 as Pi Chapter. It lost its charter from the National in 1962 when it was suspended on charges of "attempting to involve other chapters in organizing to defy some of the Kappa Sigma basic principles and failure to maintain standards of scholarship." While the National had removed its discrimination clause in 1957, the Swarthmore Chapter had been trying to change its unwritten discrimination policies and focus on making the fraternity an open social organization.

The members and alumni were split on their support of how the active membership handled the situation, and most of the alumni withdrew financial support. The local folded in 1971 due to low membership and financial debt.

This small collection contains clippings and the pledge manual of Kappa Sigma Pi. pertaining to its last years.

The collection is contained in 1 box.