Founding of the Alpha Pi Chapter

When Albion College was founded in 1835 there were no fraternities on campus. It wasn't until the chartering of Delta Tau Delta in 1876 that Albion College began to see the rise of Greek organizations. In addition to the creation of Delta Tau Delta, several literary societies were created to permit students the opportunity to enter into discussions among themselves. It was one of these literary socities that was destined to become the Alpha Pi chapter of Sigma Chi.

On the evening of November 6th, 1882 twelve men met in the room of Thomas Cox and Eric Ingersoll. Led by Paul Dejardins, their goal was to create a secret society dedicated to fostering friendship and intellectual discussions. Named the "Impromptu Speaking Club" or I.S.C., the organization quickly set up a constitution and set of by-laws. Their motto was "semper paratus" (always prepared) and their badge was a black ribbon with a gold skull and crossbones which was hidden underneath their lapels.

The twelve men who met there that night were to become known as the twelve apostles and the founders of the Alpha Pi chapter. The news of the society's creation spread around campus. Though a secret society, members could easily be recognized by the walking sticks they carried. Each stick was hand carved and had the names of all members etched in the the sides. On the top portion of the stick was their crest: an owl surrounded by twelve stars (one for each member) flanked by the letters S and P for their secret motto. The campus began to talk about the new society almost immediately and sometimes wild rumors surfaced about the group. One such rumor suggested that the initials I.S.C. stood for "I steal chickens."

The Alpha Pi chapter of Sigma Chi was officially founded on July 16th, 1886. The original chapter house was located across the from the Delta Gamma lodge, but was torn down many years ago because of building degradation. The current fraternity houses were built by the school during the late 1950's. The Sigma Chi house still retains some of its history though, with the brick wall and concrete steps both being from the original house. There is also a bronze casting of the Sigma Chi crest set in the cement steps leading up to the house, which was laid there when the current houses were built. A room in the basement was renovated in during 2006 and named in honor of the writers of the world famous song, " The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi," Dudley F. Vernor and Byron D. Stokes, commonly refered to as the "VS Room."