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"Highest in Brotherhood, Greatest Ever Known" |
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Phi Kappa National Fraternity |
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The History of Phi Kappa National Fraternity |
The Founding
The Early Years
Vital Expansion
The War Years
More Battles
The Golden Era
The Sixties
The Prosperous
Years
The Diamond
Anniversary
The Decade of
Determination
The Nineties
Covington and After
A New Attitude
The Founding
The Early Years
Vital Expansion
The War Years
More Battles
The Golden Era
The Sixties
The Prosperous
Years
The Diamond
Anniversary
The Decade of
Determination
The Nineties
Covington and After
A New Attitude
The Founding
The Early Years
Vital Expansion
The War Years
More Battles
The Golden Era
The Sixties
The Prosperous
Years
The Diamond
Anniversary
The Decade of
Determination
The Nineties
Covington and After
A New Attitude
The Founding
The Early Years
Vital Expansion
The War Years
More Battles
The Golden Era
The Sixties
The Prosperous
Years
The Diamond
Anniversary
The Decade of
Determination
The Nineties
Covington and After
A New Attitude
The Founding
The Early Years
Vital Expansion
The War Years
More Battles
The Golden Era
The Sixties
The Prosperous
Years
The Diamond
Anniversary
The Decade of
Determination
The Nineties
Covington and After
A New Attitude
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What we do know about our earliest history surrounds the personality of Jacob Broughton Nelson (right). From an early age he lived with his aunt and uncle, a circuit minister for the Methodist Church. In the years 1914-1916 Nelson attended the Southern University Preparatory School, a Methodist institution in Greensboro, Alabama. Nelson was a member of the Glee Club there. In 1918, the college and prep school closed down in Greensboro and merged with Birmingham College, forming Birmingham-Southern College.
Due to the subrosa condition of Alpha Chapter at Southern, Nelson has been proclaimed the titular founder of Phi Kappa. He has been described as being an ambitious and popular young fellow who was about 5'6" tall with brown hair, a medium build, and who wore round, wire-rimmed glasses. In 1916, Jack Oscar Hain of Selma, Alabama attended Southern where he roomed with Nelson. This started a friendship that would greatly effect the spread of Phi Kappa throughout the South. In the summer of 1917, Hain visited Nelson's home in Troy, Alabama and found that Nelson had established the Upsilon Chapter there. Upsilon was very popular and had a chapter room and social room on the Troy town square above what is now Lorch's Jewelry Store. The Upsilon's often competed with another social organization in Troy, the Jaguar Club. Hain was both pledged and initiated into Phi Kappa during his summer visit.
About this same time, a chapter was installed at Emory University Academy in Oxford, Georgia with the name Gamma Beta (probably for Georgia Beta). There is some speculation about who brought the seed of Phi Kappa to Emory. Some fraternity historians think it was Nelson, while others hypothesize that it must have been someone else from either Alpha or Upsilon. Because the chapter operated subrosa as did Alpha, the founder is unknown. Even one of Gamma Beta's Grand Masters, Chris B. Heinz (later Mayor of Selma, Alabama), never knew the founder's identification. Records show that the chapter grew and prospered until 1922, when Dr. Reese assumed authority of the school and expelled all fraternities from campus. Somehow the chapter managed to survive for another two years.
In 1920, Phi Kappa lost the man who had carried her through the establishment of four chapters. Circumstances surrounding Nelson's death are as mysterious as those around the birth of Phi Kappa. One historian reports that Nelson died of TB in Colorado, but the Bureau of Statistics in Colorado has no record of this. In fact, no one has come across records of Nelson's death anywhere. Some rumors claim that Nelson simply moved to Texas, but this also is unverified. Regardless of whether Nelson died or disappeared, we do know of no one in Troy or in any Phi Kappa Chapter who remembers seeing Nelson after 1920. We also know that his absence brought a hard blow to the Phi Kappa he knew so well.
Troy Upsilon disintegrated after Nelson's disappearance. If it were not for Mu Theta's strength at this time in our history, Phi Kappa probably would not have survived. While the other chapters were dying or being forced to die, Mu Theta was building and growing to take the leadership position in the Fraternity and at Gulf Coast Military Academy.
Probably the most important factor of Phi Kappa's growth has been the potential which was actualized by the Mu Theta brothers. This potential was that the brothers of Mu Theta came to Gulfport from towns throughout the South; thus they were enabled to scatter and tell the story of Phi Kappa to their friends at home during their vacations. Mu Theta Brother Martin Allyn (who died in 1924) and Simpson Seldon established Beta Chapter on October 15, 1922, over seventy years ago in Memphis, Tennessee. The Fraternity's next movement was to Mobile, Alabama, where on October 10, 1923, H. Jamin Gordon and Jack Sutler — both G.C.M.A. cadets — installed Lambda Chapter in their hometown. The following year, Laurel, Mississippi's Delta Chapter was founded by another Mu Theta, Wall Griffen. Delta Chapter realized considerable success for a time, but needed to be revitalized again on July 26, 1930.
In the summer of 1924, a General Assembly was hosted by Mu Theta with Delta and Lambda participating. Beta was absent due to the distance and Gamma Beta had been forced out of existence. Epsilon Chapter was founded in Birmingham at this time, again with the help of Mu Theta brothers. These brothers were James Goodwin Scott (also a Mu Theta Grand Master), Leon Matthews, and the Guthrie brothers. Epsilon Chapter hosted the summer of 1925 Convention, but after this the chapter grew weak and had its charter revoked in 1930.
Four chapters attended an October 15, 1926 Conclave in Mobile, Alabama to improve the constitution and to make plans for more expansion. Apparently this meeting was one of motivation for in the next few years several chapters joined the fraternity. On June 17, 1927, several G.C.M.A. alumni brought Phi Kappa to Monroe, Louisiana. Monroe's Eta Chapter was the first chapter to own their fraternity house. One month after Eta's founding, Lambda's Winston Groom, Alfred Falck, James Overby, and Mike Patton journeyed to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, met some Delta's and initiated a group there into the Fraternity, thus Theta Chapter joined the Fraternity on July 17, 1927.
The first real work towards centralizing the control and strengthening the National Government was accomplished at the Memphis convention in the summer of 1927. Beta proved a good host by entertaining the visitors who were mostly from Mu Theta and Lambda. Results of this historic election were that James T. Overby of Lambda became the Exalted Grand Master; Frank Burch, Beta, the Exalted Worthy Master; and Winston F. Groom, Lambda, the Exalted Scribe. The Executive Council at that time was composed of all chapter Grand Masters. The results of this convention and the work that officers did is marked by the chapters that were founded in that year.
A Zeta Chapter was founded in Jackson, Tennessee, September 26, 1927, by Brothers Hamilton and Rice of Mu Theta, and by several Beta members. Zeta Chapter grew rapidly and showed membership and records of entertainment of which she could be proud. Five months later on February 12, 1928, through the efforts of Brothers Walters, Burnside, and Duvalle of Delta, along with brothers from Lambda and Theta, Delta Chi Chapter was chartered in Meridian, Mississippi. This chapter took its place as a fraternity leader.
In June, 1928, Mobile again hosted a convention which focused upon constitutional revision. The 1929 Convention was held in Meridian and Sidney L. Hargrove was elected the Exalted Grand Master. New officers were added and attempts to strengthen the central governing body were begun. Later in August, largely through the efforts of Brother Marshall Landrum and the Etas, a new chapter — Kappa — was installed in Alexandria, Louisiana. Eleven members were initiated.
Eta Chapter once more entered the spotlight of the fraternity by hosting a highly successful convention; composed of dances, banquets and a barbecue for the guests. With practically all chapters attending, this convention went over in a big way for the fraternity in June of 1930. Eta continued to lead the fraternity by establishing Alpha Eta in Minden, Louisiana, on March 1, 1931. This chapter's growth was slow but it soon became one of the most active of all, especially from the view of the National Office for their cooperation was almost perfect.
Led by Brothers Merrill P.
McDougall and Richard Calhoun, both of the Beta, the
fraternity adopted a new constitution, by-laws, and a complete new system of
government at the 1931
Convention in Jackson, Tennessee (
The 14th of June, 1932, marked the opening of the Memphis Convention. This convention was attended by many Brothers and a great deal of the Constitution was again revised and many amendments added. The following year the Council advised that the Assembly revoke the Charter of Kappa Chapter and the Assembly responded and did so. The assembly met on June 19, 1933 at Mobile, Alabama. An excellent attendance at the meeting talked mostly of the reformation of the Fraternal Finance Department, the successful fight against anti-fraternity legislation in Mississippi, and the first efficiency cup which Zeta of Jackson, Tennessee walked away with.
September 1, 1935 found five chapters attending the 35th Annual Anniversary Convention at Meridian, Mississippi. A four-man council was formed and anew plan for the governing officers was set up. Two great social successes were held. The first was the 36th Anniversary in Monroe, La., June 15,1936. The second was the Memphis Convention June 21,1937. Nothing of outstanding importance was accomplished other than to more firmly entrench the spirit of brotherhood within Phi Kappa.
Alpha Eta Chapter, Minden, Louisiana, was declared inactive and all the members of the Executive Council were elected from Delta Chi Chapter at the 38th Annual held June 30, 1938 at Jackson, Tennessee. Due to the extensive program of chapter expansion set up at that time, Phi Kappa once more entered Jackson, Mississippi. Alpha Beta was chartered May 19, 1939, with Joe Odom as first Grand Master and the members of Delta Chi on the initiating teams.
Theta Chapter had the honor of claiming all the Council in 1939 at the 39th Convention at Meridian. This affair was very successful and once again the fraternity spent much time on the financial status of the fraternity. Later in this year a group of boys meeting under the T.A. Club were inspired by the members of the Delta Chapter to join Phi Kappa, and on December 17,1939, Tau Chapter was established in Biloxi, Mississippi, with John White, the first Grand Master.
A year later on June 9, 1940, Gulfport, Mississippi claimed our 40lh Annual Convention, and all the members of the council were elected from Delta Chapter. It was at this time that Guy D. Campbell began an unsurpassed era of distinguished service to the fraternity. He had already served in council offices during the past six years but until that time his schooling had hampered his service. Through college he began almost undevoted work toward the betterment of Phi Kappa.
Radical changes were made in the Council and also on our pledge education and ritual at Monroe on June 8, 1941, this being the site of the 41st Annual. At this time Sigma was declared an alumni chapter and Zeta was declared inactive.
The war years marked the death of many secondary fraternities, and the war weakened many more to the point where they never recovered. The war, however, didn't take away Phi Kappa's life.
Congratulations were the order of the day, the most prized coming from members of the national councils of several other secondary fraternities and one from Estes Kefauver, United States Senator. Expansion was the password as the 19th of March found a group of boys from Bastrop, Louisiana, led by Doyle Hindmon, initiated and chartered as the Kappa Alpha Chapter of the fraternity. The fraternity held its 44th Business Meeting in Meridian, Mississippi, on May 6, 1944 and urged that war bonds and stamps be bought, that scrap metal be collected and that conventions be suspended until the unconditional surrender of the Axis powers. This was a terrific display of faith in our armies which were bottled up in the Isles and reeling in the Pacific. But a greater display of faith and sacrifice were to be made as three out of the four man council died in battle in the war.
When the war ended the fraternity gathered on the coast with Tau as host to welcome the end of hostilities and the return of our heroes. But one month later in Jackson, Mississippi, the General Assembly of the State of Mississippi, met and unexpectedly outlawed the high school fraternities from the public school system within her sovereign borders. The Governor, at that time a Phi Kappa father, vetoed the bill. The Lt.. Governor, a former father, fumed and fussed when the legislature passed the bill over the veto. In letters to the fraternity, they both urged that the same action be taken against Mississippi as was taken against Tennessee. But the action had sent Phi Kappa spinning. She was almost dead. Death or injuries caused entirely by the atom bomb dropped from Capitol Hill in Jackson, Mississippi.
The fraternity retreated to Mobile, Alabama, and on August 23, 1947 surveyed her broken ranks in an effort to gird herself for the awful fight to come. Alpha Beta, Chi, Lambda, Tau and Omega were all the actives left of this once proud brotherhood. The first actions were to gather back the lost chapters into the fold.
Tau played host to a business meeting on November 29, 1947, but already the war-torn Chi Chapter had slipped away from the fraternity. A fraternity father, Earle Wingo, a prominent lawyer in the State of Mississippi, addressed the convention and was promptly appointed the lawyer to fight the state. A very few weeks later the Alpha Omega Chapter was chartered in New Orleans on December 17, 1947.
Early in 1948 Delta joined the ranks of her brothers and pledged herself to do battle against the unconstitutional law. Chapters began regrouping after the fraternity showed that it would fight and August of 1948 was the scene of the Monroe meeting attended by Alpha Beta, Alpha Omega, Beta, Delta, Lambda, Kappa Alpha, Eta, Mu Theta, Omega and Tau. But several of these chapters were not really strong enough to ever completely rejoin and they were eventually lost on the roadside.
The fraternity re-met in Laurel and heard the progress report of Mr. Wingo. He was sure of victory and pointed out the loop-hole in law. Beta and Theta were now reaching top strength and contributing heavily to the fraternity. Tau acted as host to the final meeting of 1949.
In 1950 all worries about the fraternity future were briefly put aside as the members joined in the Golden Anniversary Revel held in Memphis on June 20. In 1951 the convention returned to the Coast and Tau. But a death knell sounded that caused a shudder to go up each member's spine. Mother Mu Theta was no more. The Gulf Coast Military Academy was closed and purchased by the Federal Government. Alpha Beta was the first to fall by the side of the road. She was soon followed by Kappa Alpha. Mu Theta’s death was a very hard blow to the Fraternity. The convention was returned to Memphis in 1952. But this time it was without the comradeship of Alpha Omega. The second New Orleans chapter had disbanded though holding dearly to their charter. The question was how long 'til there were no more. Gone were the days of yearbooks and Heralds. The fraternity could hardly afford to mimeograph the secret messenger, the Key. And yet a note of joy was struck. The original members were worse off than the present ones. They had nothing. Phi Kappa now at least had seven chapters. In 1953-1954 was a quiet, sad year until Ed Hislop, Grand Master of Eta Chapter and later National Corresponding Secretary, reported to the national office that he had received a letter from a group in New Orleans which was operating under the name of Phi Kappa. The report was strengthened when a sophomore member of Theta Chapter reported that he had run into this mysterious and rather unorthodox group in a New Year's Eve party in New Orleans. Hislop invited the chapter to send representatives to a business meeting in Monroe on February 13, 1954. A member did arrive and told the story that the last Grand Master of Alpha Omega Chapter had, upon the disbanding, saved the rituals and charter, and on May 1, 1953 had gathered five boys led by John E. Harris and administered the ritual to them. The next week five more were pledged and in the fall 13 were pledged and admitted. The amazed Assembly accepted his credentials and the chapter. A chapter had dropped into their laps.
At the 54th in Biloxi, Phi Kappa changed the jeweler to Burr, Patterson and Auld, changed the system of national dues, and prayed for the return of a chapter or so. Bill Wheelis, Eta, was elected Chairman for the year. The fraternity had a banner year as all dues were paid and each chapter visited by the national officers at least twice. The prayer was answered. In late August the members of Beta Chapter crossed the Mississippi and initiated the Zeta Chapter of Phi Kappa in the town of Marion, Arkansas. The fraternity rolled along until the conclave where over 100 happy brothers accepted the petition of a Pensacola, Florida group and the Theta Sigma Chapter had begun.
The 55th Convention went to Mobile. Entertained by a large round of parties the fraternity still found time to work. A system for attendance incensement at conclaves and conventions was begun. Brother Bill Patterson, past Vice-Chairman, began work on the first yearbook in eleven years. Billy Long, the outstanding Grand Master of the year, was chosen to head the Council. The fraternity met next in Hattiesburg on February 11, 1956, with 127 brothers in attendance. Plans were made to re-enter the Interfraternity Congress, a committee began work on the Constitution, revision continued on the ritual, a scholarship trophy was placed under consideration and the fraternity okayed the printing of the Scimitar. 1956 found Phi Kappa meeting for the first convention in New Orleans. After some of the longest meetings in the fraternity's history, a complete scholarship program was worked out, more work done on the ritual, the Constitutional committee report was accepted, and the fraternity exercised for the first time, her power to levy and collect fines against chapters. Jerry Reel, past National Corresponding Secretary and the outstanding member of the year, was elected National Chairman. And a first was recorded as television cameras recorded parts of the meetings. In July, 1956, the Scimitar, edited by Patterson and James Largue, at last appeared. The Council held a two-day meeting in Hattiesburg in August and by September the Herald reappeared. Finally the dream of all councils had come true — a functioning publications department. One hundred thirty Phi Kappas met in Pensacola, Fla., in 1957 for an outstanding social success. The tide against fraternities began to change for the state juvenile officer visited the conclave and commended the group on their sterling behavior and reputation. James McInnis, editor of the Herald, called these days the Golden Era of Phi Kappa; and SO it was. National officers worked for Phi Kappa. Chapters earnestly cooperated. The fraternity turned again to Memphis for a fete. Amidst many parties, the 1957 session worked overtime, skipped luncheons, and started meetings early as six in order to approve a new constitution, work on the ritual, and try to evolve practical and realistic expansion and rush programs. Charles Fontaine, vice president, was elected Outstanding Phi Kappa of the Year and Beta received the Efficiency Trophy.
In 1958, the General Assembly gathered in Biloxi for the 58th Convention. From the production of a film of this convention emerged a new department of the fraternity, the Audio -Visual Department. Brother Donald J. McArthur, National Photographer, was responsible for producing both the 1958 and 1960 Convention films. 1958 also witnessed the production of Phi Kappa's first pledge manual, the Nelson Dream, under the Exalted Grand Master and future Phi Kappa Hall of Famer Jerome V. Reel (left).
February, 1959, saw the General Assembly convene in Laurel, where Guy D. Campbell made an inspiring address. The 1958-59 year proved fruitful in the field of expansion, admitting two new chapters. The first, Delta Chi, was reinstalled on October 26, 1958 and Iota was officially installed at Conclave in Laurel. Delta Chi immediately dug in and with the support of old Meridian alumni established itself as a leading chapter from the beginning. Iota, at Wiggins, Mississippi, did not enjoy the same fate and in June of 1960 the Charter was revoked.
The Sixties saw the admission of four new chapters and the reinstallation of another, Epsilon was reinstalled in 1966. Alpha Iota was founded in 1967 with much assistance from the brothers of Alpha Omega. Chi Omega, Sigma Tau, Theta Gamma and Delta Pi were chartered in 1968 with the aid of Beta, Theta, and Delta chapters.
In 1960, the first Grand Master's Retreat was begun in Laurel, Mississippi under the administration of Reese T. Bowen (right), the 1960-1962 Exalted Grand Master. This event has become a yearly session and in the sixties, it was held in Columbia, Mississippi, for more than half of its meetings. Also in 1960, the Trust Fund was established and begun by Jerome V. Reel. Conventions of the Sixties alternated between four cities — Memphis, Mobile, Biloxi-Gulfport and New Orleans — and conclaves were held in Laurel, Meridian and Hattiesburg primarily.
Exalted Grand Masters in the Sixties were Reese T. Bowen, Jr., of Delta, Howard Wallace of Delta, Albert Sidney Cain of Alpha Omega, Jerry Rigdon of Delta Chi, Mike Ellis of Delta, and William Richard Pryor of Delta. In 1969 Phi Kappa won its first National Interfraternity Council Publication Award for the first edition Nelson Dream.
The 70's opened with a huge bang as Phi Kappas were honored with the Interfraternity Council Publication Award presented to the fraternity from President of the United States Richard M. Nixon. Also as Conclave '70 in Meridian, MS, Phi Kappa held their first 200 plus General Assembly as 201 brothers packed the meeting rooms to conduct the fraternity's business.
The General Assembly met in Laurel, MS, at the Pinehurst Hotel for its annual Conclave in 1971 for the third year in a row. Exalted Grand Master Robert L. Pugh of Beta Chapter began the Community Service Project Day, now held in the spring of each year. The Peabody Hotel in Memphis played host to the 71st Convention as Brother Hal Malchow of Theta Gamma convinced the General Assembly to do away with all physical hazing. Zeta Chi of Lubbock, TX, was chartered and Alpha Iota won the Efficiency trophy.
In 1972, Conclave and Convention were held at Meridian, MS, and Mobile, AL, respectively. While in Mobile, the Assembly boosted the yearly scholarship amount up to $250 and made sweeping changes in the pledge system resulting from previous anti-hazing legislation.
In 1973 at Conclave, Phi Kappa welcomed the new Nelson Dream. The Pinehurst Hotel once again played host. Theta Gamma hosted Convention 1973 at the Downtowner Inn. Brother Dallas Flint was instrumental in establishing the Damage Deposit now required at all National Functions. A new interest was shown by alumni as Zeta Alpha Rho Rho Alpha (ZAPPA) Triton was chartered in Pascagoula, MS.
Two hundred-sixty Brothers attended the 74th Conclave in Meridian, MS, as Delta Gamma Chapter in Long Beach, MS, was chartered with help from Theta Gamma. Gulfport hosted Convention '74 as Phi Kappa once again fought anti-fratemity legislation. Theta Gamma won the Emile T. Petro Efficiency Award for the third straight year, and Gamma Theta Triton was granted a charter.
The Diamond Anniversary Convention After two World Wars and 75 years, Phi Kappa stood tall and saluted herself at its 75th meeting of the General Assembly. Conclave in Hattiesburg, MS, chartered Delta Triton and began the Community Service award. The Ramada Inn in Mobile, AL, played host to the Anniversary Celebration as Exalted Grand Master Mike Newfield welcomed the 200 Brothers as well as four Past National Presidents and Winston F. Groom, Exalted Scribe 1929. The sixth new alumni chapter, Alpha Gamma Triton, and a new active chapter, Delta Omega, were chartered. While alumni and actives played golf at a local country club, the Executive Council was reading the presentation of the Phi Kappa Hall of Fame.
A beautiful 6 feet by 4 feet plaque with a four foot solid bronze Phi Kappa Coat of Arms heralded the eleven names of the Charter inductees: Jacob Broughton Nelson, Jack Oscar Hain, Jr., Clarence Heath Cowart, William F. Palmer, Charles Richard Calhoun, Guy D. Campbell, William Crawford, Frank Liddell, Jerome V. Reel, Robert L. Pugh and Merrill P. McDougall. This plaque is proudly displayed, along with many other old Phi Kappa trophies at National Trustee Emile T. Petro Jr.'s office in Gulfport, MS. Phi Kappa was celebrating again in 1976. America's Bicentennial year was at hand and Phi Kappas traveled to Meridian, MS, waving U.S. flags and sporting red, white and blue banners. As 244 brothers worked, a record 93 honorees were entertained. Beta Gamma was chartered with help from Theta Gamma and Delta Chi Alpha Triton renewed the old college alumni chapter tradition at Louisiana State University.
After a successful social event, Conclave 1977, Convention landed at the mouth of the Mississippi, New Orleans, LA. After the brothers had visited Bourbon Street, they headed for the Convention Banquet where a "great historical presentation" was on hand. C. Greg Carney, with much help from Dan Northrop Jr., unveiled the first known picture of our founder, Jacob Broughton Nelson. This discovery was just the beginning as Brother Carney is still diligently searching for the missing links to our founder or his final resting place. After setting up the National Budget Committee at Grand Masters Retreat in 1978, Conclave entered Meridian, MS, once again. Balfour Jewelers became the official jeweler of the fraternity and the Alumni Attendance Award was begun. Convention was held again on the Coast in Biloxi. After a day on the beach, the General Assembly chartered another alumni chapter, Alpha Gamma Delta Triton and an active chapter, Alpha Chi. A trust fund was set aside for the purpose of reprinting The Nelson Dream and more alumni awards were established.
The 79th General Assembly met once again in Biloxi and increased the National Scholarship Award to $300 and Sigma Gamma was chartered in Bay St. Louis after Theta Gamma initiate Robby Boyd's family moved there.
At Convention 1979 Mr. James Swackhammer, former supplier of Phi Kappa sportswear and long-time supporter of Phi Kappa, was posthumously elected Phi Kappa's first honorary member in two decades.
Exalted Grand Master Roger Ishee presented Sigma Gamma Triton their charter at Conclave 1980 in Jackson, MS. Gil Carmichael, a prominent politician from Meridian, Mississippi and a founder of Omega, addressed the General Assembly and Phi Kappa Great, Dr. Guy D. Campbell also attended.
At Convention 1980 in Mobile, another alumni chapter was chartered as 13 alumni represented Theta Triton. A third National Event was begun to honor our founder, Jacob Broughton Nelson. Founder's Day is now held each year as near to Brother Nelson's birthday as possible.
As Brother C. Greg Carney took over as Exalted Grand Master, he declared the 1980's the "Decade of Determination.” Phi Kappa had enjoyed 20 years of growth and prosperity, but Phi Kappa was still at a standstill. If expansion to new cities did not begin soon, Phi Kappa would wither to a local fraternity and rob many young men the enjoyment and learning experience of Phi Kappa.
The year 1981 saw progress toward Brother Carney's goal as 200 brothers attended Conclave in Hattiesburg. The Alumni Attendance Award was named after Dallas G. Flint, the founder of the present day alumni chapters. Brother Flint was also appointed the first national President of Phi Kappa's Alumni Association. This new separate organization would put more emphasis on our older alumni from the early days of Phi Kappa. Brothers from all over headed for Convention on the Coast as Theta Gamma hosted. After many hours of hard work and fun on the beach, the brothers headed home with a stronger sense of Brotherhood.
A new link was added to Phi Kappa at Conclave 1982 as Delta Sigma Chapter in Vicksburg, MS, was granted a charter. Brother Mike Barnes of Sigma Gamma and Brother Val Overstreet, Director of Expansion, developed and guided the colony club to their successful charter.
Convention 1982 returned to the Coast. Again brotherhood was strengthened and alumni involvement was improved.
Eight months later the General Assembly met again in Gulfport for Conclave 1983. Our host chapter, Delta, proved that excellent planning and coordinating could produce a profitable National Event. The assembly voted to elect a convention host one year in advance to allow for better and more efficient planning. Brother Dallas Flint resigned as National Alumni Association President and Brother Patrick D. Thrash succeeded him.
Convention returned to Hattiesburg in 1983 and a name synonymous with Phi Kappa reappeared. Miss Penny Petro, granddaughter of Phi Kappa Hall of Fame member, Emile T. Petro, Sr., was elected National Little Sister. Three generations of Petros had now served Phi Kappa on a National level as her mother and father had served as National Mom and Dad, respectively, in the past decade.
The year 1984 saw a resurgence in National Function attendance as Delta Chi hosted an excellent Conclave. Exalted Grand Master Bob Coffin appointed a Nelson Dream Revision Committee as the previous edition's supply was dwindling.
At Convention 1984 in Vicksburg, MS, Delta Sigma welcomed Phi Kappa to one of the South's oldest cities. Brother Jose Beaton of Theta was elected National President and the General Assembly voted to embark on its largest Community Service Project. Past National President Mike Newfield proposed that Phi Kappa support the International Hospital for Children in New Orleans. Another link to the chain was added as Theta helped expand to Collins, MS, and Theta Chi Chapter was chartered.
Conclave 1985 had a surprisingly large turnout despite one of the worst snow and ice storms ever in Mississippi which kept several chapters from attending. Delta Pi hosted this Conclave at the Ramada Inn in Biloxi, MS. Theta received the first International Hospital for Children award. Theta Gamma added another link to the chain with Nu Gamma in Ocean Springs, MS.
1986 saw the election of Theta's Tim Farris to the position of Exalted Grandmaster. A chapter was re-established in Biloxi at Convention 1987, becoming Tau Gamma. Jamie Schlottman, another Theta alumnus, was elected Exalted Grandmaster in 1988. Sadly, 1990 witnessed the loss of the Delta Pi Chapter in Pascagoula due to in attendance and rampant drug use - the result being the revocation of their charter at Conclave 1990 in Mobile. Convention 1990 was also held in the port city of Mobile, and those who attended were honored by the presence and wisdom of Dr. Guy D. Campbell. This Phi Kappa great addressed the General Assembly and talked about the long history of our fraternity. Those present listened intently to the man they learned about while pledging, and who, after all these years, was still dedicated to Phi Kappa. Delta Nu, founded by Nu Gamma Chapter, was chartered at this convention, establishing our brotherhood in McComb, Mississippi. Theta Gamma's Steve Palazzo was also elected to the position of Exalted Grandmaster. On January 16, 1991, the United States and its Allies went to war against Iraq for invading the tiny nation of Kuwait. As a result, Exalted Grandmaster Steven Palazzo was called to duty in the Middle East. Also called to fight was Roger Parker, an alumnus of Delta and past National Secretary. Exalted Worthy Master Mark McDaniel was bound by duty to take Palazzo's place. Conclave 1991 was held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Brother Mark McDaniel adeptly presided over the General Assembly and a successful event. At the banquet, everyone in attendance prayed for the safekeeping of all the American soldiers in the Middle East and a quick end to the conflict.
Please check back soon for this newer section of our history...
The 102nd National Convention of our great fraternity was held at the Biloxi Beach Resort in Biloxi, MS July 27th-30th, 2002. The event was a huge success and was a great end to a great year. During general assembly of the third segment of the second session the fraternity voted to expand the Executive Council office of Chapter Relations to also be responsible for all Ritualistic Affairs to ensure that the rituals are done properly and also aid in the collection of Pledge and Initiation Fees.
Aside from business, the fraternity had a great time playing Ultimate Frisbee, listening to bands, and just hanging out. At the banquet Saturday night Brother Steve Nelson, former National President, presented the redesigned Phi Kappa Hall of Fame plaque. The nearly five hundred pound bronze plaque was displayed during the entire banquet. This plaque, which is in the shape of the Phi Kappa Crest, holds the names of only the greats in Phi Kappa history. This was the first time the fraternity had seen the Hall of Fame in nearly five years.
Along with all of that,
Gerald Everett, Exalted Grand Master, opted to stay in office.
Despite all the years and hours he has given already to this fraternity,
he decided to stay for one more year.
Phi Kappa ruled Jackson, MS during the weekend of Conclave 2003, and it will be one that won't soon be forgotten. All chapters in attendance had great reports of the differences they were making within their chapters and communities. Also good discussion was relayed about different chapter’s policy on elections. Hopefully these measures will make all the chapters run a little bit smoother in the year’s to come.
Highlights of the weekend included an outstanding Little Sister Luncheon at Hooters, a "Harley-Davidson" speaker at the banquet, and a near fire in the lobby (we won't talk about that one). Everyone had fun dancing and singing along with the karaoke machine after the banquet, and sharing chapter stories and songs in the various hotel rooms up stairs. The Executive Council had a great time and hopes everyone had a great time also.
Phi Kappa's annual Convention was held on June 26th - 29th, 2003 at the Gulf Beach Resort in Biloxi, MS. This Convention was one of the biggest and best events Phi Kappa has seen in a decade. The banquet took place at the Crystal Ballroom in the Treasure Bay Casino and Resort. At the banquet we witnessed a few historic presentations with the addition of Dallas G. Flint, Richard Chenoweth, and Greg C. Carney to Hall of Fame, and witnessed Brother Gerald Everett shed a few tears as he stepped down after three years service as National President.
All the brothers of Phi Kappa were also greatly excited about the presence of past national presidents, Phi Kappa Hall of Fame members, and all around Phi Kappa greats, Dr. Jerome V. Reel, Jr. and Al Cain. This just added to the prestige of the audience that included several other past national presidents including: Richard E. Chenoweth (1972-1974), Steve Nelson (1976-1978), Roger Ishee (1978-1980), C. Greg Carney (1980-1981), and David Maxie (1998-2000).
Of course there was also a lot of fun to be had at Convention 2003. The weekend started out with a luau on the beach, mullet toss included. A talent show followed on the next night with a surprising slate of talent, and of course the entire brotherhood enjoyed shaking it on the dance floor after the banquet. Throughout the weekend all of the brothers had fun socializing with chapters and their little sisters from throughout the state. Hopefully, this event will rekindle some the great friendships among chapters that our fraternity has long been always known for.
Hattiesburg was the site for 2004's Conclave. On March 5th and 6th, representatives from all of the fraternity's chapters joined together to share ideas, receive officer training, and of course, have a really good time. One key bill was passed in the General Assembly, but the main focus of the weekend was to build relations among the chapters. Everyone enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of The Inn on the Hill, but also some extremely intense laser tag on Saturday night. All chapters showed much enthusiasm for the growth of their brotherhoods, and all expressed an interest in making 2004's Convention one of the most memorable in years. The 104th Convention of Phi Kappa was recently held on the weekend of June 3rd, 4th, and 5th, 2004. The national event was planned by Nu Gamma and convened in Biloxi at the Gulf Beach Resort. Although the numbers were not as grand as the fraternity would have liked, much thought and discussion was put forward by the event's attendees about the future of Phi Kappa. Topics of discussion ranged from expansion to other cities, stronger officer training, better methods of communication, and generally what needed to take place to revive our numbers and participation in Phi Kappa. Elections were held for the Executive Council, and Phi Kappa reluctantly said goodbye to its past Exalted Grand Master Marc Turnage. However, with this departure came a new hope with the young, yet willing, new national officers. Much is expected from this group, and everyone in attendance seemed to agree that no other group could offer as much promise as the newly elected Council. Besides general business, the usual socializing amongst chapters and the EC dominated the weekend. Everyone seemed to enjoy the nice weather and the company of their brothers (not excluding the Little Sisters in attendance). The Executive Council would like to thank all of those that attended and remind them all of the important topics discussed; let's make the rest of 2004 a year that will go down in the record books not just for Convention, but also for our fraternity's growth. |
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The
founding of Phi Kappa is sated in mystery. The founding date has been set at
February 
The 42nd Convention was
held in 
Theta Chapter was host to the
1958 Conclave which was held at the Forest Hotel. Among the notable activities was a
dance at the Community Center with the Red Tops of Vicksburg furnishing the
music.
The Sixties witnessed
the strengthening of the Executive Council and a more secure
financial base for the fraternity.
Convention 1976 returned
to Gulfport, MS, as Albert S. Cain III was inducted to the Hall