Pi Beta Phi (Colorado Beta Chapter) Records

Collection

Identifier: U381

Staff Only

Abstract

Collections contains materials for the first greek organization on campus, Pi Beta Phi sorority established 1885. Includes a bound music score book from 1899, group portraits from 1903 and more.

Dates

1898-1943

Creator

Pi Beta Phi. Colorado Beta Chapter (University of Denver) (Organization)

Biographical / Historical

Pi Beta Phi is considered the first national women's fraternity. The organization was established in 1867 at Monmouth College, Illinois as a secret society for college women under the name I. C. Sorosis. The name was changed to their motto Pi Beta Phi in 1882. The University of Denver chapter, Colorado Beta, was established in 1885 after the University of Colorado, Boulder. The chapter closed in 1980 and as of 2022, has been inactive since.

Extent

2.75 linear feet Linear Feet (1 letter document box, 1 wrapped object (27 x 7.5in))

Additional Description

Scope and Contents

Collection contains several folders with early chapter materials, including a dance card from 1925, group portraits from 1903, a bound music score from 1899 called Songs of Pi Beta Phi, and an inititation card from 1898. Other labeled folders include events, a chapter publication from 1907, press clippings from 1930s, and a floor plan for the Pi Beta Phi house from 1943.

Arrangement

Multiple series arrange in one box. Folders arranged alphabetically. If more materials are accrued, will expand to multiple boxes. With it being the first greek organization on campus and lasting until 1980, surprising we don't have more.