Iota Chapter, Kappa Sigma Fraternity
Georgetown, Williamson County, Texas
Marker Inscription
The Iota Chapter of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity was chartered at Southwestern University on October 12, 1886. Iota became an official chapter on October 15, 1886, following the initiations of Iverson B. Lane, Jesse C. Baker, Jasper B. Gibbs, and John S. Moss. Beginning as an unauthorized group on campus, the chapter did not receive university recognition until June 20, 1887. It was the 27th chapter chartered in the United States and the second organized in Texas. In Iota's first century over 975 members have worn the star and crescent, the symbol of Kappa Sigma. Texas Sesquicentennial 1836-1986
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In the autumn of 1886, a handful of Southwestern University students founded the Iota Chapter of Kappa Sigma, at first an unofficial band that would wait until 1887 for the university's blessing. It was only the 27th chapter of the fraternity in the country and the second in Texas, and over its first century more than 975 young men wore its star and crescent. The marker was set during the Texas Sesquicentennial celebrating 150 years since independence.
Why it matters
It records the growth of Greek life and student culture at one of Texas's oldest universities during the Gilded Age.
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