| Thomas Cowan Bell was 23 years old when he helped found Sigma Chi and he is remembered for his keen wisdom in decision-making and in his later life. His aunt's home was used as the first chapter house of Sigma Chi, where the seven would meet to formulate ideas and discuss issues. Bell served with distinction in the Civil War attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After the war he returned to education, becoming the superintendent of schools in Nobles County, Minnesota; later he became president of Philomath College and later of Central Oregon State Normal School. His personality and unselfishness caused Runkle to say that Bell had "an expression on his face that made one instinctively reach for his hand." |
