THE SPHINX
DIRECTORY
GENERAL OFFICERS:
President - H.H.Long,204ChandlerStreet, Worcester, Mass.
Secretary - Geo P Hinton,2191East46thStreet,Cleveland,O
Treasurer - Chas.A.Tribbett,958YaleStation,YaleUniversity,NewHaven, Conn.
AlumniChairman - - F H Miller,MoundBayou,Miss
Editor - W A Pollard,2347Ga Ave.,Washington,D C,
CHAPTER OFFICERS:
Alpha—President, MosesH.Dorsey,142LinnSt.,Ithaca,N. Y. Secty,JamesR Westheimer, 1}4 CentralAve.,Ithaca,N Y
Beta—President, Wm.A.Pollard,2347Ga.Ave., Wash.,D.C.
Secretary D.J.Firse,2347Ga.Ave.,Wash.,D.C.
Gamma—President, JohnL Nixon,Va UnionUniver.,Rich.,Va
Secretary Adolphus Bayton,
Epsilon—Pres.,A. A. Taylor, 608Fuller St.,AnnArbor, Mich. Secty,John R Grossland,608FullerSt.,AnnArbor, Mich
Zeta—President,Chas A Tribbett,958YaleSta.,NewHaven Con Secty, A.C.MacNeal,207ParkSt.,NewHaven, Conn.
Kappa—Pres.,DanielL Ferguson, 227E 18Ave.,Columbus,O Secretary, Emmett B.Saunders,398W.5thAve.,Col.O. Mu—President,LouisC.Valle,24415thAve.,S.Minneapolis, Ma. Secretary,Dr AlbertC Talman,TheCampusClub,UniversityofMinnesota, Ma
Nu—President, F.C.Shirley, LincolnUniversity, Lincoln, PaSecretary, HaroldBrown,Lincoln University,Lincoln, Pa
Omicron—Pres.,A.D.Stevenson,2711EllisAve.,Pittsburgh, Pa. Secretary,OttoV Green,522S CraigSt., Pittsburgh, Pa
Xi—President, A. L- Foster, Wilberforce Uni., Wilberforce, O. Secty, C.S.Sprivy,WilberforceUni.,Wilberforce, O.
Pi—President, DanielD.Fowler,2213E-39thSt.,Cleveland, O. Secretary, C E Cheeks,2335E 89thSt.,Cleveland, O Rho—President, R.N.Gardener,4026SansomSt.,Phila., Pa. Secretary, UllyssesS.Dunn,1026S.18 St.,Phila., Pa.
Sigma—President, JamesMcLendon,HarvardUniversity Law School, Boston,Mass. Secretary, A H Tavernier, BostonUniversity Law School,Boston,Mass
TH E SPHIN X OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA
THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY
VOL. II. APRIL, 1916. NO. 2
SIGMA CHAPTER (Harvard University)
Sitting left to right: M W Clair, Treas., L D Turner, Chaplain, F A Myers, J D McClenden, President, A A Pope, A H Tavernier, Secretary, E H Crampton, Corresponding Secretary Standing left to right: J. S. Mitchell, A. B. Nutt, I. R. Berry, B. J. Bibb, M.L. Lewis, J. C. Hixson. W. A. Dart, H.W.Brown, J. A.Norris andJ. W.Nutt, Jr.
Standing toprowleft to right: L.C. Tyree and E. W. Baxter
A BRIEF HISTORY OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY.
By Chas. H. Garvin, General President 1912
and 1913-
Whenever bodies of men have been gathered together more or less permanently, they have tended to separate into groups based upon kindred tastes, aims, interests and ideals This has been manifested from time immemorial Nations and clans had their beginning in this way. Especially so has this been the case in the formation of college Greek letter fraternities, thus Alpha Phi Alpha had its beginning. It sprung up to meet a growing need
among Negro college men This growing need was a closer bond among Negro college men scattered throughout this continent.
We are going to tell you of this organization that had its beginning only a few years ago, but shall have its ending only when there ceases to throb within the hearts of men those basic principles upon which Alpha Phi Alpha was founded.
It hardly seems possible that an organization, with a scattered membership, could grow within the few years of its existence from seven members to an organization of more than five hundred members, from one Chapter, local in scope, to nearly a score of Chapters,
united under a general constitution. ThehistoryofAlphaPhiAlpha,likea numberofitsearlyeffortsatextension, is not an extensive one, nor are the records either copiousor enlightening. However, what few facts have been gathered from varioussourcesmay interest you
The early history of Alpha Chapter isthe beginning of Alpha Phi Alpha. The Alpha Chapter is a direct outgrowth ofasocialandliterary organizationfounded bytheNegro students, male and female, at Cornell University The purpose of this society or club was entirely social and literary The club met every Friday evening
The original male membership of this organization consisted of C. C. Poindexter, Geo. B. Kelley, Vertner W. Tandy, H. A. Callis, W. A. Murray, Chas. H. Chapman and Robert Ogle. Itwasnottheobjectoftheprimemoversofthissocietytoextendbeyondthe shores of the Cayuga, nor tohave its influence extend beyond graduation Examination of the records show that the newly formed society was slow in developing
Becauseofthedifficulty the literary societyhadinmaintainingfriendly and harmonious feelings among the members, the organization was disbanded by the withdrawal of some of the members. The men who thus withdrew formed a social club composed ofmen only.
The first record of the existence of this club was a meeting held on October 16, 1906. On October 23,1906, the following week, Robert Ogle proposedthecolors—oldgoldandblack— astheclubcolors. Itwasalsomoved at this meeting by George B. Kelley that the club beknown by the Greek letters,Alpha Phi Alpha
Thus shall we regard October 23,
1906,astherealdayofbirthof Alpha Phi Alpha, and George B Kelley as the father.
(To be continued.)
A PLEA TO BETA MEN.
In the December number of the Sphinxwecalledyourattention to the Beta Home Fund We hopethat you have not forgotten the proposition. Refer to your December Sphinx, and respond tothisplea. Beta must have ahome!
You are out in the "world" now, meetingwithsuccess,andyoucaneasilyafford $5ayear,especiallywhenit means that Beta will own a home. This applies not only to Alumni of 1915,who started the fund, but to all Alumni, honorary and non-resident members.
It is but a small sacrifice. Make your check payable to Geo.W. Cook, Treasurer Beta Home Fund,and send it in. If you will only send your $5 it will be a success. Just figure how much fifty $5checkswillamountto— why $250 In four years this will be $1,000,andthisdoesnottakeintoconsideration the increase because of graduates In four years Beta could makeaninitialpaymentonahome,and therenttheactivememberspay could help pay the balance.
Remember, Alumni 1915,you took anoath tosend$5,anditbecame due inJanuary
Support this proposition.
YoursinA<J>A, BOARD
OF DIRECTORS.
James W Parker, M D., Secretary; Chas H Garvin, M D., Chairman; Geo W Cook, Treasurer; Howard H Long, Secretary for Class 1915
COMMUNICATIONS.
Dear Brother Editor:
It isthe acute concern of the present administraion that delinquent Chaptersberevived. What isneeded, itwould seem,isintensive,aswell as extensive, work, and perhaps a dash moreoftheformerthantfhelatter The proverbial weaklinkinthechain finds somethingofananalogyinthereverse of this proposition. But our task is not to make the members seethe importance of this procedure as an objective reality. They see it surely enough. Indeed, the real danger lies inthefact that toooften repetition of theideainvaryingtermsandonvariousoccasionsmayhaverobbeditofits meaning and effective toning If so, we have a static thing as nauseating as the unholy pretentions of uprightness, which are but hollow sounds of thecalloushypocrite
Let us not fall into the vulgar rut Rather letusponderthe situation untilwerealizeitandfeelmovedtowrite alettertosomebrotherinadelinquent Chapter and urge him to do what he can topromote arevival of his Chapter. Often a word of encouragement orasuggestion ofour expectationsof these delinquent brethren will work remarkably The feeling of isolation tends to take away responsibility and to shear them of hope They need touch and rapport with the aggregate spiritofthenumerousmembers. Shall wewhoareinthetideofthespiritlet othersperishwhocansoeasilybesupplied? Letushaveyouransweratthe General Convention in Richmond Christmas.
Fraternally yours,
H. H. LONG, General President.
AN OPEN LETTER TO ALL THE BROTHERS OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY.
Dear Brothers:
First,Iwishtothankallthebrothers for the confidence they have imposed inmetolookaftertheirbusiness This is, indeed, a heavy office. I am convincedbythistimethatitrequiresall the time I can possibly give to it. Thus I seekyour aid in attending to its many duties Kindly answer my letters at once,and then I have some basis to go on. Often the reply to some other Chapter will depend on whatwordIgetfromanother Then, you arethecauseofthedelay of otherssave yourself
In my second circular letter to you I promised you the minutes on April ist Now,asamatteroffact,notone Chapter has told me the number of copiestheywant Theprinterhasnotified me to come for the work, but how manywill Ineed? Ihada very hard time getting Chapter directories. Some, in fact, have not sent them in yet To me that is loose business Tighten up,Mr.Chapter Secretary,or you will not advance the interest of yourChapterasyouhavebeenintrusted to do
Bythetimethisissueofthe Sphinx reaches you I am inhopes of having all supplied with Shingles and Pass Cards. In case there is a brother in your Chapter without one, kindly send me the information needed, and Iwillsendonebyreturn mail.
IwisheachChapterSecretary would' •.•rite me at least once each month Iamanxioustohearfrom you,andas totheactivitiesofyourChapter. Also, givemeanyinformationtheymaypos-
sessinregardstoinactiveChaptersand extension work
The following Chapters at present are inactive: Alpha Alumni, Alpha Lambda, Delta, Iota, Mu, Theta, and Lambda Anyone with any information as to any brother in the instituionswheretheseChaptersarelocated will please write direct to this office. WewanttoputeachChapterbackon theactivelistoncemore. Please lend uswhateveraidyou can
I advise all to begin thinking now of the Grand Tax for this year It is aswelltosenditinbeforethis season closes Iwill writeyou all from time totimeinregardtoit. Youareaware of the fact, nodoubt, we wish to collect $1,000this year. Can we do it? Wecanifeachbrotherwilldohispart. Willyou doyours?
Ithankyouforyourpatience Iam certain I will have your hearty cooperation in the above-mentioned duties, and look forward to one of the mostsuccessful yearsofour fraternity. Will beglad to hear from any of the brothersatanytime
Fraternally yours,
GEO. P. 1IINTON, General Secretary.
CONSTRUCTION.
Itiswith much regretthe Secretary findssomanyinactiveanddead Chapters The situation is far more distressing on a close investigation than atfirstsight Somethingmustbedone toaidthiscondition. Wemustallpull togetherandworktooneend.
I am particularly anxious that we should restore asmanyofthe inactive Chapters to the active list as possible 'thisyear WehaveaddedanewChapter,itistrue,but lookat thelargeinactive listonce,and allour exultation isshort lived.
I trust that each brother inthe fraternity will write direct to any member of the following'mentioned Chapters, inschool or out, and also advise theSecretaryofthebrother'snameand address, sothat hemay get some line of action established At this writing we find from the minutes of the last General Convention the following Chapters as inactive or not represented: Alpha Alumni, Alpha Lambda. Delta, Iota, Mu, Theta. and Lambda. Since the convention we have been able to establish communication with Mu However,theremainderhavenot seen lit to answer our letters or else they have not received them In the caseof Helta,and Eota,wehavenoaddress of any member of their Chapter oranyone now inschoo.l
In conclusion, we wish to say, our fraternity will grow only as fast and aslargeaseach willtakethe fraternal matters to heart We must each invest ourselves enough toseethat all Chapters,thrive and prosper Let us assumeanairofbrothers andseethat weareourbrother'skeeper. Whenwe dothiswith allourpower and energy then we will have no more inactive Chapters and the limit of our expan•onwillbeinfinite
Any information from any brother willbegladlyappreciatedbythisoffice.
The Alpha PhiAlpha Fraternity GEO I' HINTON, General Secretary
In our "Chapter News" of the last issueweunmistakably classified Adolphus 1lodge as an Alumnus member of Beta.
Brother \<. A Meyers,Sophomoreof Harvard Medical School,recently won a scholarship of $125 offered by his department.
THE SPHINX
Published Quarterly by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
Printed at Washington, D« C
EDITORIA L STAF F
Editor-in-Chief - W A Pollard
BUSINESS STAF F
TH E PRINTIN G COMMITTEE
Editor-in-Chief, Chairman
Ralph J Young (Beta) J P- Sampson (Beta)
Subscription - - - $ 1.00 Year
This publication is in/ended for members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity only)
Address a!l communications to The Editor-in-Chief APRIL, 1916
EDITORIALS.
(>ur intellectual attainment, great as it may be, will avail us nought if the medium through which it is to make itself felt is surely deficient There is perhaps no greater asset to the successful career of any business man than his "'business ability." In this great age of sharp competition often we find knowledge struggling for existence. while ignorance is beaming in prosperity. When we review conditions carefully we observe the cause of the failure on the one hand and the reason i><v the success on the other We likewise observe that no one, be his conditions what they may, cannot hope to succeed in any enterprise if there be not in him those sterling qualities which will recommend him to his fellow-men as well as invite their attention and patronage.
Too often the business and pro sional men of our race fail, not because they are intellectually deficient, but
often because they lack business aptitudes, such as close attention to one's business, punctuality in business engagements and quickness in dispatch of business thai calls for immediate attentii in
11 is to be regretted that the members of Alpha I'hi Alpha must be placed under this category and be stigmatized among those who have not as yet acquired the fundamental principles which go to make up an exemplary manhood Before we can rightly regard ourselves as the beacon-light of ' our less fortunate brethren we must learn to keep our business promises and tO fulfill, with promptness, our business obligations
< me can hardly realize how much he can impede the whole machinery of an ' organization if he fails to comply with the requests for information which it is his duty to furnish. Nor do we stop to consider the breach of duty we commit when we neglect to fulfill our duties according to the expectation of those who have intrusted us with the management of their affairs
The secretaries and other officers of the various Chapters do not consider for a moment how much they can thwart the plans and hamper the machinery of the whole fraternity when they fail to answer letters sent to them for information of general importance It is not unusual for letters asking for immediate reply to be delayed weeks before they are given attention, and not infrequently Mich letters are never answered As a result, there is a general tardiness running through the business of the fraternity in every department of the administration
It is absolutely impossible for the General < )fficers to perform their duties satisfactorily if their letters sent to the Chapters are not given due recognition.
We, therefore, urge each Chapter to impress upon itsofficers the necessity ofgivingpromptattentiontotheir dutiesand,aboveall,insistupontheirreplying promptly to the business that concernsthebody fraternal
The evileffects of such dilatoriness, though detrimental tothebusiness interests of the fraternity, react with a still greater disastrous effect upon the individual, for, inthe meantime, he is cultivating habits that may mean his failure through life. If we are to be theleadersofourpeople—ifweexpect tobecomethebeacon-light of our less fortunate brethren—we must, while in school,cultivate reliablebusiness habits,sothatwhenwehavelaunchedout into amoreexactfieldof activity, we might be able to hold our places and wield the influence that becomes our situation
TO THE ALUMNI.
The lack of interest manifested by theAlumniofAlpha PhiAlpha inthe fraternity is not only surprising, but very lamentable, indeed. The most important causeof such astate of affairsisnodoubtduetotheurgentnecessity of getting a start and keeping the wolf from the door in the great struggle with theoutside world. And when the thoughts of the welfare of AlphaPhiAlphashould,perchance,recurtothemind,thesenseofthe duty shirkerswouldbeconsoledbytheidea that the affairs of the fraternity were incompetent hands. In the heartsof many who for such cause have been constrained from lending active supporttothefraternity,theloveofAlpha Phi Alpha still burns, lying dormant now, however, but, when awakened, willsendforth agreater,nobler flame. There isanotherclassofour Alum-
ni,however,whoseattitudeissolely to bedeplored It seems incredible that any Alpha Phi Alpha man would feel that the fraternity was good enough for them as college youths, but now that they havegoneforth inthewide, wide wmld, to meet their destinies, it illbecomes their dignity to retain the interest in the organization They regardAlphaPhiAlphaas,perhaps,aiding in the fuller enjoyment of their college days—very fine, indeed, for those in college, and for such alone
To them Alpha Phi Alpha is strictly forthe undergraduate
Such men, of course, have either missed the spirit and aim of the fraternity,orelseweremistakenastoits purpose. I can see why a man who hasnodesirefortheunselfishloveand brotherly companionship of his peers has no love for Alpha Phi Alpha. I can also realize why aman devoidof interestintheadvancementofhisrace should consider Alpha Phi Alpha a nice college social organization. But how aman havingpassed the censorship of all the members of his Chapter, and having been taught the true meaning of Alpha Phi Alpha, should deem itunworthy ofthevital interest andsupportofonegainingorattempting to gain success in the world at large,isbeyond my understanding.
Theremaybeseveralideasof Alpha PhiAlpha prevalent,sothosewhofeel asIfeelwillpardon mefor reviewing afewofthesalientfeaturesofthe fraternity as I see them The first,aim of Alpha Phi Alpha is to select such menasarenotonlyabovetheaverage in intelligence, but whoare,above all else, true gentlemen To the extent thattheundergraduatebodyissuccessfulintheselectionofitsmembers will the fraternity attain its second goal— thatofdisseminatinganundyingspirit
unbreakablebondofbrotherlylove,the flower of our race, what a beautiful goal would it have set for itself. No man knows all that wasinthe minds of the immortal six of Ithaca,yet we doknowthat thebestandmost intelligent,inpracticallyevery community, have the greatest and most enduring influence Having then welded into onestrongbodythebrainsoftherace, Alpha Phi Alpha attempts to fully emancipate the downtrodden millions andleadthetwentymillionsof tomorrow toanabidingplaceinthe history ofthisgreat United States.
FellowAlumni,arouseyourself from your lethargy. Aim for the highest pinnacle inyour profession Make as much money asyou please,but crush the selfishness and sordid materialism that would destroy the fine flower sownintheheartbythespiritofAlpha Phi Alpha There isnothing greater than love. God Himself islove, with whichourraceisnot superabundantly supplied. Do not allow your nature to become warped. Cultivate rather thanpermittoperishtheseedsownin yourcollegedays. GetintocommunicationwithyourChapters Givethem thebenefitofyourknowledgeofhuman nature. Warnthemtoselectmenwho are neither mollycoddles nor reprobates. Barallwhomnoonewouldfeel free to hail as brother The crying need of our race isjust such a spirit as Alpha Phi Alpha would cultivate. Every day Iseethehell-spawn of the Bourbon South spread its peacock feathers of "White Blood," and were their intelligence enough, and the Alpha Phi Alpha spirit, as I see it, there would benoneed for obesiance.
Wouldthat Icouldmakeyouallfeel asIfeel,that thereisno organization to which we owe greater allegiance, none more worthy of our active sup-
port,nonecapableofgreater good for thefuture oftheAmerican Negro
F.H. MILLER, Chairman Alumni Committee
CHAPTER LETTERS
ALPHA CHAPTER
Dear Brothers—Greetings:
At present Alpha Chapter isexperiencing the best days of her existence. There isno discord amongthe brothers and all are working diligently towardsnextfall's house proposition
Alpha hasstarted ahousefund A general letter has been sent to all Alpha Alumni-who could be located, seeking their views upon our house proposition. Subscriptions have already been received We have been surprised by the many favorable responses to our Alumni letter
Allthebrothersarenowworkingon anentertainment tobegiven May 4th at one of the local churches, the proceedsgoingtothehousefund Aoneact farce and chorus will be Alpha's contribution
AlphawastenderedaLeapYearreceptionbythefairsexof Ithaca.
Bro R H Ogle,oneof our founders, has gone to live in New York City.
Bro. George H. Fletcher, honorary, has secured a position in one of the large white insurance companies of Newark,N.J.
Alphaisworkinghardonacode for ourritual
OnotherpageswillbefoundAlpha's contribution to the A-Phi-A Song Book. Fraternally yours, A. P. CHIPPEY.
To the Editor:
We have discussed the delivery of the Sphinx in the past, and we now
believe that wecan dotwo things by thissuggestion: (a) Diminishthecost ofpostage; (b) relieveyoufrom some ofyourresponsibilityinthedeliveryof thepaper
We would suggest that, instead of sending a separate Sphinx to each brother inour Chapter, send them all inonepackagetotheAssociate Editor, whowilldeliverthem eitherbefore or atthetimeoftheweeklymeeting. This woulddiminishthecostofpostage,because,ifonepackagewassenttous,the costwouldnotbemorethansixcents, whileifsenttoour fifteen brothersindividually,wouldcostfifteencents Of course,thereisonly ninecents saved, butifthisamountcouldbesaved from each Chapter, you would acknowledge a fairly round sum before long It wouldalsomake theAssociate Editor semi-responsible for the delivery of thepapers,thus localizingthe present defect Fraternally yours,
ARTHUR P CHIPPEY
SONGS SUBMITTED BY ALPHA. FRATERNITY SONG.
TuneofCornell'sAlmaMaterorAnna Lisle
All thru life our loveshall strengthen ForourAlpha Phi; Our allegiance shall not weaken Itcannever die
Chorus: A-Phi-A forever, E'en till death or never, Alloursonsshall be; We havepledged our full devotion Toour Fraternity
Butourbondscannot be broken, We are true A-Phis, Naughtbutdeathourloveshall sever, Andoursacredties.
—A P Chippey
ALPHA CHAPTER SONG.
Tuneof Cornell's Evening Song. SonsofAlphaPhiarewe, Oneinloveand charity, When inlifeweare apart SongsofAlphacheerourhearts
Chorus:
Courage,brother,banded we All through life to eternity; Letourheartsinjoyous praise Sing of Alpha through endless days. When the eveningshadows fall Sombre hued o'er us all, Let all thoughts of sadness flee Forourown,ourAlpha Phi.
—Written by J P Boags and R H Ogle (Founders)
BETA—HOWARD UNIVERSITY.
Withtheadventofspring,fresh fraternal spirit has come to the brothers ofBeta Theboysarenotonlyapplying themselves diligently to their schoolwork,butareearnestly looking after their fraternal obligations about theChapter House The tennis court is being whipped into shape by our enthusiastsofthatsport. Thegrounds, too,arenotbeingslightedinthespring clean-up
On Saturday evening, March 18th, we had a "smoker" at the Chapter House. Informal speecheswereheard, songswere sung,and,inshort, Alpha Phi Alpha spirit was rekindled We were especially glad to have so many ofourAlumnimembers present.
On March25th,theUniversity Dramatic Club presented its annual play at the Howard Theatre. Bro. Merrill Curitis, in the title role of the play, "Herod,"acquittedhimself mostpleasinglybeforethepublicandwastherecipientofmuchfavorable criticism.
Bro. E. B.Stone, manager of the 'Varsity 1916baseball team, has just
returned with his team from,a very successful trip of fourteen days through the South
Shortly after the mammoth indoor track meet, held in Convention Hall on February 25th, Bro. Sampson was elected captain of the 1916 'Varsity trackteam,whichsucceededincapturing both the collegiate and open trophiesoffered atthismeet
We are, indeed, proud of the increasedinterestmanifested inour Sunday morning prayer meetings,and we areexceptionallyproudofthereligious spirittheyhaveawakened. Severalof ourbrothersrenderedaprogramatthe Eighth Street Social Center a few weeksago Betaisthusextendingher fraternal spirit beyond her own portals
At our last meeting,April 12th,we decided to have our annual spring dance on Easter Monday night The boys are eagerly looking forward to this occasion with great expectation, forwefeelthatthisspring'ssocialwill beeven more successful than our last formal dance.
Bro.Garvin and Bro.Hunt presentedtwocapsandgownstothe Chapter, onetobeusedeachyearbythe memberof the Senior Classof the College Department who shall have attained the highest average over 80 per cent during his four years of scholastic study inthat department; theother is tobeused by the brother of the Senior Class of the Medical School who attains the highest average in that schoolofanybrother inhisclass
At our last meeting the following officers were elected for the ensuing years:
President, Bro William A Pollard Vice President, Bro.N.O. Goodloe. Secretary,Bro.D.J.Firse. Corresponding Secretary, Bro.J. P.
Sampson. Treasurer,Bro R J Young House Manager, Bro Clayborne George Steward, Bro Stratton Assistant Steward, Bro. Robinson. Chaplain, Bro.J.H.Brooks.
Members of the Board: Bro. Middleton, Bro Bagleyand Bro Piper OnthenightofApril 19thweareto initiate three candidates into the sacredbrotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Bro Harper has returned to his home inIowaonaccountofillhealth We wish him a speedy recovery and are expecting him to be with us as usual this fall.
Bro Temple,ourprizeoratoranda member of the Howard-Atlanta DebatingTeam,left for Atlanta atalate houronthe nightofApril 12th. The team arrived inAtlanta about 7p.m. thefollowingevening,withbarely time toreach the debatingplatform However, they succeeded in obtaining a unanimous decision over the Atlanta boys.
Duringthepasttwomonthswehave had the following visitors: Brothers 'Johnson of Gamma, Bishop of Zeta. Hilland Williams of Nu.
The Corresponding Secretary has sentouttoallAlumniand non-resident members of Beta listsof their indebtednesstotheirChapter Weespeciallydesirethesemembersnottoneglect \ •their fraternal obligations, and to pay upassoonaspossible. Willtheaforementioned members please inform the Corresponding Secretary of any change of address that should occur, sothat noonewould missasingleissue of the Sphinx. If you should knowofanybrotherwhodoesnot get the Sphinx, please inform us of said brother, as we want every Alpha Phi Alpha man to keep'in touch with the
progressofthe organization
Fraternally yours, JOHN P. SAMPSON.
GAMMA.
Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha—Greetings:
Bythetimeyoushallhavereadthis Gammawillhavecompletedherspring initiation. About midnight, Saturday, April 8th, six goats willhave finished theharrowingcircuitofmystery. The prospective victims are J. M. Ellison, '17;M.H.Vann,'17;T.W.M.Crowder,'17;D.W. Davis,'18;C.H. Carroll,'18,and T. L. Puryear,'18.
The undergraduate and alumni brotherswereentertainedon Thursday evening, April 6th, by Bros A Manning,L L McGee,and I DeWittCanada, who have recently adopted the nomenclature, "Kingsley Suite.'" This pseudo name isderived from the fact that they occupy a suite of rooms in Kingsley Flail Avery pleasant eveningwasspentbythe brothers.
Bro Beale Elliott, originally of this Chapter, lint now affiliated with Zeta Chapter as an alumnus member, visited our university home a few days ago The brothers were, indeed, glad to exchange greetings with Pro Elliott.
In giving the whereabouts of our alumni members in the. last edition the name of Bro.K. C. Manning was unintentionally omitted. Bro. Manning isreflecting credit upon hisalma mater and his fraternity by the excellent workheisaccomplishingasprincipal of Northern Neck Academy, Ivondale, Va Not only is Principal Manning amost valuable asset to the institution, a,s such, but his sterling service in the community is felt and appreciated by theentire county Weareexpectingapleasant meeting
P H 1 N X
and chat with Bro.Clarence Cameron White, when he appears in a recital hereon April 26th.
TheChapterisstrivinghardtoreach the point when every brother shall possessafraternity pin.
Yours for the further fostering of .Alpha Phi Alpha spirit. Fraternally yours,
KAPPA CHAPTER—COLUMBUS, OHIO.
Brothers'of the Alpha Phi Alpha— Itgivesusnosmalldegreeofpleasure and pride to be so addressing an 01ganization of young men of such calibre asweknow Alpha Phi Alphaites tobe. We read with interest the tineChapterlettersandeditorials contained inthe last issueof the Sphinx. Wederived much inspirationfrom the newsofwhatourAlumnibrothers are doingoutintheworld,andweresolved toaddtothesumtotalofnobleachievements for the coming year by doing themostandthebestwithinour powerforthegloryofournoble organization
Kappa has started the new year by outlining a constructive and progressive policy Already we have many worthy achievements to our credit within this community, and have launched several movements which, wehope,willproveofbenefit both to ourselves and the community. We havehereatOhioStatewhatisknown as the intramural system of athletics. Each student getsachanceat competitive games. Heretofore all fraternities but our own have been officially represented by a team inthe spring meets Thisspring,underthe spirited leadership of President Ferguson, Alpha Phi Alpha will be represented byarelayteam
TH E SP
Just at present we have a proposition submitted byoneofour brethren wherebyweshalltaketheinitiativein formingthevariousyoungpeople'ssocietiesofourcitychurches intoacentral organization. In accomplishing thisweshallhavedoneagreatdealin adding to that already exalted esteem inwhichAlphaPhiAlphamenareheld throughoutthe country.
Our Glee Club is rehearsing for a concert tobegiven inoneof the larg esthallsofthecityonMay 5th The university musical conductor is our sponsor.
Nextyearwehopetobe comfortably and happily housed inour own home, and so gain exceedingly in the unity, brotherhood and progress that come from intimate personal contact with brethren
Our honorary members, of whom therearefivelocatedinColumbus,are markingthetrail which weshall have to follow when we get out into the world Their achievements are constantsourcesofencouragementandinspirationtous. Drs.Woodlin,Method and Johnson are men who would do honor to any organization by having their names connected therewith, and the public benefactions of Attorneys King and Godman are well known in this community as conducive to the progress of our people. All of the above-mentioned menarepublic spiritedanddynamicforcesintheupliftand progress of this community, and we are proud to have their names upon our roll.
We have two Alumni members in the city—Dr E P Simonds, proprietor ofthe Long Street Pharmacy isa charter member of Kappa. He conductsahigh-classpharmacyand fulfils an economic and social function with his improved methods and scientific
management. He is replete with the Alpha Phi Alpha spirit, and his enthusiasm neverlags. We congratulate ourselves upon stillhavinghim inour midstascollaboratorandadviser Dr Roy C Carter conducts an up-to-date modern dental establishment on Fifth street, near the Y.M.C.A. He isa progressive brother, and his improved dental methods are being remarked upon favorably by his patrons Bro NimrodB Allen,whocametous from Zeta, isproving his sterlingworth by hisefficient, progressive administration oftheSpringStreetY.M.C.A. Bro. AllenhasmadehisY.M.C.A.oneof the positive social betterment factors inthecity Hehasbroughtmanyhighclass artists to the city and has enlargedboth themembership and plant of hisassociation. He isof great aid tousinallthingsthatmakefor brotherliness,virtue,co-operation and progress
Our president, Dan Ferguson, is a manamongAlphaPhiAlphamen. He has been on the track team for three years, and this year was chosen class orator over one of the mdst popular fellows in school. We shall be sorry tolosehim by graduation this spring, asheundoubtedly willleaveus. C.R. Lewis,ourex-president,whograduates inmedicine;C P Henderson, in law; F W Wand, inVeterinary Medicine; andAlbertS.BeacanandG.A.Mundy. inarts,areloyal,substantial AlphaPhi Alpha men and wepredict for them a mark inthe world
On Sunday, March 19th, Bro. Judkins,EpsilonAlumnus,wasinthecity. HewastheguestofBro Mundy Bro Judkins is a member of the Alumni Committee,andsaysthatthat committeewillhaveafavorablereportfor the General Convention.
Prof.KellyMillerdeliveredalecture
TH E SPHIN X
inColumbus,April6th After thelectureProf Miller (honorary Beta) was ourguest (Kappa) atabanquetinthe Cafeteria, SpringStreetY.M.C.A.
OnFridaynight,March24th,weinitiated intothemystical andsacred secretsofAlpha 1'hiAlphasixnewmen. These men have already shown their fitness towear thebadge of fraternalism, as exemplified by Alpha Phi Alpha, and we are gladto welcome them tothetrue path,tothe light
.Muchcredit belongs to our worthy editor of the Sphinx for so soon executing the improvements suggested at the General Convention May he advancetothehighestrungof perfection the work thus far so nobly advanced byBros CannonandMcGhee,andmay the Sphinx be as a fountain of light whereby each Chapter can obtain the spark of fraternalism.
WAYNE L HOPKINS
NU CHAPTER.
Dear Brothers:
The spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha is blazing forth like a noonday sun and apathy isfading like amist before it. Duringthepast twomonthsthe members of NTuChapter have participated in every phase of collegiate activity Furthermore, those whoflythe colors of the fraternity have outstripped all other competitors Bro Goss continuesinhisroleasabrilliantandconsistent basket-ballplayer. OnthediamondBro.Muirhasagainresumedhis task of managing the team. Bros. "Bob" Lockett, "Dick" Lockett and "Lucy" Wyatt are gradually rounding into form, and the gridiron next fall shouldagainfindfavor undertheleadershipofBro.D.G.11ill.manager,and Bro.T.T.Tilden,assistant manager.
Ontherostrum, Bros C W Wood, H.B.BurtonandP.L.Edwoods were
three of the four senior orators who weresenttoWestChester,Pa.,torepresent the Senior Class. The judges awarded Bro.Edwoods the first prize. Then,onMarch 1ith,whenthesethree Alpha Phi Alpha men, along with Bro. W. E. Smith, were among the twelve competitors inthe annual SeniorOratorical Contest at Lincoln University, Bro C W Wood won, while Bro Edwoods was given third place Nottobeoutdone,Bros Boulwareand Chamberlain,theonlyNumenentered, werechosenamongthefirst sixJunior orators to declaim on commencement morning.
Bro S G Smith has charge of the entirecampus HeisLincoln's Superintendent of Public Instruction
Bro.Izzy Brown liasahalf interest in the University Supply Storeand is knownasthe"Sunburnt Yiddisher"of this institution.
The triumvirate which givesNu her greatestdignityconsistsofBros Frank C Shirley, Dubois Muir, and Jessie BebleBarber TheyareA B menand regular instructors on the Faculty
Although our debating teams' did not bring back the laurel wreath, yet wefeeldoubly proudoftheir performances. First, because they were Lincolnites, and conscientious workers, and, secondly, because three of the four men, namely, Bros Wood, Burton, and Hill, were Alpha Phi Alpha men Oneof thealternates, Bro Edwoods was from Nu
TwoofthefourspeakersattheTheological Commencement are members ofNu,namely, Bros.J.C.Cooperand F. C. Shirley.
I"our of our pledged members were pilotedacrossthe RiverStyx on April 3, 1916 And, despite the fact that waters were a trifle warm and rough, nevertheless they reached the other
side. The doomed were Bros. J. E. Williams,J.W. Barrett,J. B. Barber, andF J Hutchins Alterthe strenuous portion of the program was performed, refreshments were served and ashort entertainment ensued.
The Senior Class selected Bro C A Lewis M !)., to respond to the toast totheAlumniattheannual banquet. The aforementioned individual istheleadingmember of Rho's Chanterandoneoftheforemost Negroprofessional men in the State of Pennsylvania lie loves Alpha Phi Alpha and shows great consideration to visiting brethren whocall at his office.
Bro. T. T. Tilden. the manager of the University Glee Club, received innumerableglowingtributes forhisexcellentservicesinthatcapacity While Bro.J.B.Barberwonahostof friends bymeansofhismelodioustenorvoice.
The Faculty gave three of the four appointments to the Class of 1916 to Alpha Phi Alpha men. Brother P. L. EdwoodswasawardedtheLatin Salutatory, while Bros.Wood and Burton werechosenascommencement orators.
P L EDWOODS,'16
PI CHAPTER
Dear Brothers:
PiChapter wishestointroduce little Frank II. Weaver, Jr., born recently toDr and Mrs Frank II Weaver,of thiscity
At our midyear initiation, Clarence F Cheeks, Dental, '17,and Perry B Jackson, Law, '21,became brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha. Both stood the ordeal bravely and give promise of becomingtwo of our most valued members Daniel Fairfax, W R U., and Ernest Jackson, O S U., were made honorary members of Pi
Bro. H. Ardine Leatherman, who was very sick during the winter, is
much improved. Bro. Leatherman is studyingElectricityatPurdue University.
Bro. Q: F .Montgomery, of Illinois, reports good health and good fellowship. We have to take the classroom work for granted
(>narecentFridayeveningtheboys helped Bro Morgan initiate his new and spacious factory. All weneed to say isthat noneof the essentials ofa realstagpartywasmissing.
On the resignation of Bro. Rufus Carr, Bro. C. E. Cheeks, 2335 East Eighty-seventh street,hasbeenelected Secretary (if Pi Fraternally yours, A.G.EVANS.
FH O CHAPTER—PA. MEDICOCHIRURGICAL COLLEGE.
RhoChapter isgetting ready for its spring initiation, which is to be the largest and most impressive we have yetheld. Amongthesuccessful candidates are some very promising undergraduates and some successful professional men
Bro. G. Ernest Robinson, M. D., is a staff member at the Douglass Hospital (Philadepliia), and chief of the Outpatient Genito-Urinary Clinic He isalsomakinggoodinprivatepractice, havingalarge clientele
Bro T T Nichols, M D., presidentofRhoChapter,isprivatemedical attendant to Senator Llenry George.
Rho Chapter would like to have itN knownthatitwouldliketoactashost to the General Convention in 1917. The City of Philadelphia offers many advantages:besidesbeingconveniently situated and about equi-distant from all Chapters, it isagreat historic and educational center. There are also a number of very prosperous Alumni members inthiscity.
Bro Leonidas Crogman, D D S.,
has opened an office in alarge officebuilding in Atlanta, Ga., and reports that heismeetingwith success
Bro. Clarence S. Janifer, M. D.,of Beta,ischief resident physician at the MercyHospitalandisunderthewatchfulcareof Rho.
Bro Chas S Wilkinsoncomestous from Gamma He isstudying pharmacy at Temple University (Philadelphia),andismakinggood
Respectfully submitted,
DeHAVEN HINKSON.
Our spring initiation was an event long to be remembered in the annals of Rho Chapter It was noteworthy from the standpoint of the wealth of material acquired. Men who stand high—high intheir community and in their respective professions • were deemed worthy ofthe signal honorof having the rites of the fraternity administered to them
Likewise,undergraduates,who must guide the destinies of Rho's ship of statewhenwehavepassedfrom active service,weremadeapart ofus. And last,but notleast,brethren,learnedin theworkingsofAlphaPhiAlpha,comingfromfrontlineChapterstocolleges in tlris city to complete their school careers, brought with them their credentials inorderthat they might affiliatewithRho Thesebrethren,too,are very valuable acquisitions and will greatlyincreaseour efficiency.
The impressiveness of the occasion waswellworthyofnote. Wehavenot the slightest hesitancy in stating that the "impressions"madeon that memorable night were profound, lasting, andforgood.
For the assistance of Bro Clarence S.Janifer, M.D. (Beta), Bro. Charles S Wilkinson (Gamma),and Bro Jas A Creditt (Nu) weare very grateful
Having begun, the ceremonies were conducted inasystematic and expeditiousmanner, andthebrothers, young andold,adjourned newlyinspired and more determined than ever to make Rho Chapter, though in its infancy, give a good account of itself and to workfortheadvancementofAlphaPhi Alphalocallyand universally
The following were added to our Chapterbyaffiliation or initiation:
Bro.Chas.S.Wilkinson,from Gamma, who affiliated and is now taking pharmacy at Temple University, Philadelphia.
Bro. T. Spotuas Burwell, A. B., M.D.,graduateJefferson MedicalCollege (1907)
Bro Isaac M Lawrence, D D S., graduate Howard University (1909)
Bro GAlvinJenkins,D D S.,graduate Philadelphia Dental College (I9I3)-
Bro. Raymond H. Rodgers, P. D., graduatePhiladelphia Collegeof Pharmacy (1912).
Thesewereallmadehonorary members.
Bro Augustus T Granger, Dental School, University of Pennsylvania (1916).
Bro A Raymond Thomas, College of Arts and Science, University of Pennsylvania (1920)
Thelasttwoweremadeactivemembers.
Should the proposed merger of the University of Pennsylvania Medical School with the Medico-Chirurgical College beeffected, Rho's chances for a "frat" house will be greatly enhanced, as heretofore the studentbrothersofoneschoolhavehadtolive inonepartofthecityandthoseofthe otherschool inanother,makingitdifficult for them tomaintain a house
Respectfully submitted, DeHAVEN HINKSON.
NOTE—Nhe History sent in by Rho willappearinournextissue.
OMICRON
Omicron wishes to announce the success of Bro.James Burwell at the track meetoftheA.A.U.Middle Atlantic meet, which was held in Motor Square Garden on March 21, 191O The"great runner,"asthe newspapers callhim,notonly had the satisfaction ofdefeating twoofthebitterest rivals, Carroll and Gano,but broke the MiddleAtlanticrecordfor 50yards indoor when he stepped the distance in the fast timeof53-5seconds, inthe mile relay Burwell, in spiteof amishap at thestart,handed histeammateagood fiveyards.
Wehavejustpledged four new men whom we consider as being the best for Alpha PhiAlpha from our university stock These men are Messrs Chas.W. Florence,College,'18,a formerschoolinstructorandagoldmedal man onthe University of Pittsburgh debatingteam,andonewhohasshown remarkableabilityinthe intercollegiate contests of the various Eastern colleges. Wm. Curtis, Engineering. 'l8; Wm Brown, Junior, College, '19, and R Brown, College,'19
Since the Alumni movement was givensuchanimpetusatthelast Convention wehavecaught thespirit and now have at hand tentative plans F<ir associating with ourselves the best oi the numerous Alumni whom we have in Pittsburgh from numerous colleges oftheEast. Fraternally,
WRAY M BANKS
SIGMA—HARVARD UNIVERSITY
Ithaslongbeenthefondhopeofthe
Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity to witness theestablishmentofaChapterat Har-
vard University. This worthy dream hasbecomeaglowingreality,for Sigma,established,asshewas,undersuch favorable circumstances, bespeaks much for the work at hand and foretokens great accomplishments for the future We realizethat these daysof Sigma are days of beginnings, but in the larger sense they are days of the continuance and development of a Strong brotherhood that will inspire andinstructnotonlyourowndayand generation, but thousands yet unborn. Inthesetryingdays,may Codgiveus the power, the insight, and the courage tolead the raceon to greater human endeavor.
The following are thenames of the men who were duly initiated into the secretsofthe fraternity:
'M L Lewis, Harvard University Law School.
B.J.Bibb,Harvard University Law
A V Nutt, HarvardUniversity Law School
H. W. Brown, Harvard University Craduate School.
DavidM.Scott.TuftMedicalSchool.
E W Baxter, Harvard Dental School
Lewis C. Tyree, Harvard Law
I R Berry, Boston University Schoolof Theology.
William A.Dart, Boston University I,aw School
JohnW.Nutt,Jr.,Boston University Law School
J. S. Mitchell, Boston University Law School
Judson C Hixson, Boston University Law School.
J.A.Norris,BostonUniversity Law School.
At a recent meeting held in Boston in protest against segregation, Sigma waswellrepresentedbyBros.McClendon,Clair,Bibband Lewis Bro Mc-
Clendon presided with dignity and in amannerworthyofajudge Rev Bro Clair offered prayer and the benediction. Bros.LewisandBibbstirred the heart ofevery person present by their eloquence So moved was the audience by these speakers that the auditoriumfairlyrangwith applause
General President 11 II Long and Bro. Benjamin Waits, both of Clark University.Worcester, werepresent at our initiation Bro Longmadeafew inspiringremarksafter the ceremonies of that dark and awful night. Bro Prof,Clarence Whitewasalso present andfavored uswithanaddress.
Rev. Bro. "Preacher" Wright, formerly pastor of the Congregation Church a: Haverhill, Mass.,isnowlocatedat Hartford, Conn. Bro. Wright isan Alumnus member of Beta Chapter. He is a strong and promising clergyman.
Bro. F. A. Meyers, Sophomore in Harvard Medical School,recently won a scholarship of $125 He won the samescholarship last year.
At the communion service held at Charles Street A.M.E. Church, Boston,onFebruary 1st,Bros.I.R.Berry and E H Crampton preached in the morningandevening, respectively.
The new members of Sigma are showing the true Alpha Phi Alpha spirit. The fraternity and all that it stands for havealready found a warm place in each heart There is talkof invitingtheGeneralConventiontohold one of its sessions at the seat of our Chapter some time inthe near future Bros Tavernier, Mitchell, and Ilixson took part in a mock trial held at Fourth M. E. Church, Boston, on March 30, 1916 They conducted the affair in aunique manner Bro llixson acted asjudge, Bro.Tavernier as attorney for the State, and Bro Mit-
chell was the defendant's counselor Attorney Mitchell was especially stronginhispleabefore thejury,and Attorney Tavernier showed marked skill in cross-examination
E 11 CRAMPTON, B U School of Theology
PERSONAL
BrotherT T Nichols,M D„presi dentofRho,isprivatemedical attendanttoSenator Henry George.
Brother P L Edwoods,of Nu, LincolnUniversity,wasawarded .heLatin Salutatory, while Brothers Wood and Burton were selected as cornmencenieneoratorsoftheir class.
BrotherE M A Chandler, Alumnus of Beta,hasrecently won a fellowship of $400 at the University of Illinois, whereheistakingacourseof Doctor of Philosophy.
Rev.E.B.Smith,anaffiliateofZeta. who isnow pastoring in Washington, D C, is doing credit to Alpha Phi Alpha. Within a year of his incumbency he has established himself so firmly intheheartsof the people that he is now greatly sought by nearly every literary and religious institution inandabout theCity of Washington On May2dheistodeliverthe graduation address to the nurses of the Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D C OnMay14thhewillpreach the Baccalaureate Sermon at Palmer Memorial Institute,Sedalia,N C Onan invitation of the International Y M C. A. Committee, he will deliver one oftheprincipaladdressesatthe King's Mountain Student Conference, to be heldonMay19-29,atKing's Mountain, N C Rev Smith was appointed to his present charge last year while a student of Yale School of Religion. Alpha Phi Alpha watches,with pride, hiswonderful progress