History of Theta Chi

Theta Chi Fraternity was founded on Thursday, April 10, 1856 at Norwich University in Norwich, Vermont. Its founding members are Frederick Norton Freeman and Arthur Chase, who established Theta Chi originally and guided its expansion and direction for many years thereafter. The early years of Theta Chi saw much hardship, including a huge fire at Norwich University, a decline in membership that left Theta Chi with only one member, and the relocation of the university in 1866.

Theta Chi overcame these challenges and not only survived, but prospered. The fraternity was incorporated in Vermont in 1888, and acquired its first chapter house two years later. By the turn of the century, Theta Chi was beginning expansion, establishing the Beta chapter at MIT in 1902, and following quickly with a national-level Grand Chapter to co-ordinate colonization and expansion. In 1942, Theta Chi absorbed the Beta Kappa Fraternity, further bolstering its ranks with 16 additional chapters and 6,000 Beta Kappa brothers.

Today Theta Chi is a large and well-respected international fraternity. With 150 active chapters spanning most of the 50 states and Canada, Theta Chi maintains a presence at many major universities in North America. To date, Theta Chi has initiated over 170,000 members since its founding in 1856, and maintains an impressive alumni network featuring the likes of filmmaker Steven Spielberg, former automobile executive Lee Iacocca, journalist Bob Woodruff, Daily Show reporter Rob Corddry, and General John M. Shalikashvili, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Important Information

Founded: April 10, 1856 (151 years old)
Founders: Frederick Norton Freeman, Arthur Chase
Motto: Θηροποσα Χειρ (A Helping Hand)
Maxim: Alma Mater First, and Theta Chi for Alma Mater
Colors: Military Red and White
Symbol: The Rattlesnake
Flower: The Red Carnation
Creed: "I Believe in Theta Chi"
Anthem: "It is to Thee, Dear Old Theta Chi"