The 100th Chapter of Beta Theta Pi

The Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi began as the Tribe of the Sphinx. The Tribe of the Sphinx was founded at Kansas State on the 14th of October, 1901 at 617 Leavenworth. The Tribe of the Sphinx, known publicly as Tau Omega Sigma, was the first Greek letter fraternity to be instituted at Kansas State. There were twenty-two founders. The society was based upon the objects of social improvement, spirit of fraternity, and mutual problems and enjoyment.

In 1913, Tau Omega Sigma submitted a petition for membership in Beta Theta Pi. The vote was cast with a 59 to 13 vote in favor of granting the charter. The installation of Gamma Epsilon into Beta Theta Pi took place on Oct. 17-18, 1914 with Dr. Francis W. Shepardson, Denison, '82 presiding. Gamma Epsilon became the 100th chapter of Beta Theta Pi.

In 1930, our current home was constructed at 500 Sunset Ave. It originally housed 55 men, and has since undergone two major renovations. For more than 80 years, the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Beta Theta Pi has been a shining star at Kansas State University. We have been ranked first in both grades and intramurals many times. Our chapter so dominated the Inter-fraternity Sing that it was eventually done away with. Our philanthropies and leadership permeate the entire Manhattan community. Gamma Epsilon has rightfully been praised time an again as one of the greatest chapters in Beta's broad domain

Please contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns about Gamma Epsilon History.

Pat Smith
Historian

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