Sigma Chi Records

Collection

Identifier: UA05.22

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection contains records documenting the history of the Sigma Chi fraternity at Butler University. It consists primarily of textual materials, including clippings, printed ephemera, pages from The Drift, and notebooks. Many of the “Drift” pages contain member lists, while much of the other news discusses philanthropy and brotherhood events, Greek life, and the notable house fire that destroyed the first Sigma Chi house. This collection also contains many photos of said events.

Dates

Creation: 1924 - 2000

Creator

Sigma Chi Fraternity. Rho Chapter (Butler University) (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Historical Note

Sigma Chi fraternity's Rho Chapter was established at Butler University in 1864. The organization was founded on the principles of friendship, justice, and learning, and provides social and philanthropic opportunities for its members. Notably, the original Sigma Chi house was destroyed due to a water heater explosion in 1955. While the event caused no fatalities, some members were trapped for a while. After the incident was cleared, members of the chapter were given dorm residences and held fraternity events at Atherton Union while their house was rebuilt. Currently, Sigma Chi resides at 655 W. Hampton Drive, next to Ross Hall.

Extent

0.42 Linear Feet (1 box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

This collection contains records documenting the history of the Sigma Chi fraternity at Butler University.

Bibliography

Fujawa, Ed. “November Explosion: The Destruction of the Sigma Chi House at Butler University.” Class 900 Indy, Class 900 Indy, 29 Dec. 2023, www.class900indy.com/post/november-explosion-the-destruction-of-the-sigma-chi-house-at-butler-university. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.

“Sigma Chi.” Student Life, 9 July 2024, www.butler.edu/student-life/fraternity-sorority-life/sigma-chi-2/. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.

"Sigma Chi Rho Chapter." https://butlersigmachi.com/. Accessed 17 July 2026.