Gamma Sigma (Pacific University) Collection
Scope and Contents
This collection belonged to the Gamma Sigma Fraternity, which includes a log book, minutes, pledge manual, a creative pledge sheet, and a copy of the charter from 1873. The Pledge manual is an instructional piece for the fraternity to be sure that the steps in the pledging process are taken correctly. It includes secret activities, spring activities, financial obligations, meetings and tentative schedules in October, November, and December. The originally written copy of the Gamma Sigma charter by faculty in 1873 is a step by step constitution by which the society follows.
Dates
- 1873-1980s
Conditions Governing Access
Collection is open for research.
Conditions Governing Use
Pacific University owns the copyright to some, but not all, of the materials housed in its archives. Copyright for materials authored or otherwise produced as official business of Pacific University is retained by Pacific University and requires its permission for publication. Copyright status for other collection materials varies. Transmission or reproduction of materials protected by U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.) beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the copyright owners. Works not in the public domain cannot be commercially exploited without permission of the copyright owners. Responsibility for any use rests exclusively with the user.
Historical Note
Gamma Sigma is an independent fraternity that was founded at Pacific University in 1863. Pacific University believes it to be the oldest Greek Letter society west of the Mississippi River. In its early years, most of the fraternity's activities centered on literary and academic events such as readings and debates. By 1900, it was more focused on social activities such as banquets, parties and events meeting with campus sororities. Gamma Sigma acquired an off-campus house in the 1920s which was the house of former Pacific University President Ferrin. The Gammas were very involved in the social life of campus, hosting many parties and attending sporting events. They also participated in the brawls to win the bronze statue of the school mascot, "Boxer."
Extent
1 Cubic Feet (1 box)
Language of Materials
English
Summary
The Gamma Sigma Fraternity is one of the oldest college fraternal societies in the Northwest, and is an important part of Pacific's history. This collection belonged to the Gamma Sigma Fraternity, which includes a log book, minutes, pledge manual, a creative pledge sheet, and a copy of the charter from 1873.
Location
Charter and "Food for Thought" placemat are housed in Oversize Drawer 7.
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
- Language of description note
- Finding aid written in English.
- Sponsor
- Sponsored by a grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission
Repository Details
Part of the Pacific University Archives Repository