The Greek Movement

As liberal arts students at the College of William and Mary in 1776, the founders of Phi Beta Kappa — the first Greek letter society — were required to be well versed in Greek language, culture and history. Consequently, they were aware of the central importance in Greek cultural history of an institution known as the Mysteries. Read more.

1839-1850

At nine o’clock on the evening of the eighth day of the eighth month of the year 1839, eight earnest young men, all students at Miami University, held the first meeting of Beta Theta Pi in the Hall of the Union Literary Society, an upper room in the old college building (known as “Old Main”). Read More.

1850-1900

Hanover College is a modest private school near Madison, Ind. From a quiet promontory the campus overlooks the Ohio River and beyond to Kentucky. Founded in 1853, Iota chapter existed sub rosa, like most fraternities at the time. Membership in Beta Theta Pi was cause for expulsion from college. Read more.

1900-1950

By the turn of the century, two important features of Beta Theta Pi had become apparent. The first — Beta character — had already manifested itself in stories such as that of John Holt Duncan and the men of the Michigan chapter who refused to forsake their membership and their badge. Read More.

1950-1998

With the establishment of the Administrative Office and appointment of an administrative secretary in 1949, the stage was set for spectacular growth and a solid future for Beta Theta Pi and its fraternal colleagues in the years ahead. Read more.

Men of Principle

The year was 1998, and Beta Theta Pi was about to embark upon what would become arguably one of the most pivotal moments and periods in the Fraternity’s history. The founding in 1839, the acclaimed Beta Firsts of the 1870s and 1880s, the establishment of the first administrative secretary and Administrative Office in 1949, and the long-awaited new Foundation and Administrative Office of 1994 were significant, grand achievements.

Beta Greats

This list is only a taste of the many great men who have contributed to the fraternity, many more could be included. However, the following men would surely be listed in nearly any list of "Beta Greats." Read more.

Heraldry

The seals and emblems of the Fraternity, provided for in The Laws of Beta Theta Pi, include a standard badge, pledge button, colors, flag, coat of arms, great seal, chapter seal and membership shingle. Read more.