Chi Psi. Alpha Sigma Chapter (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

The Alpha Sigma Chapter of the Chi Psi Fraternity was originally chartered November 16, 1855, and was the first chapter of Chi Psi established in the South. It was active until the Civil War, but at the onset of war, it dissolved. It was re-established as a local fraternity at the University in 1923, but was not re-chartered as a chapter of Chi Psi until 1928. Since that time it has remained one of the most active and respected fraternities on campus.

From the description of Records of the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Chi Psi, 1854-2004 (bulk 1928-1960). WorldCat record id: 49208971

The Alpha Sigma Chapter of the Chi Psi Fraternity was originally chartered on 16 November 1855 and was active until the Civil War. Alpha Sigma was the first chapter of Chi Psi established in the South. At the onset of war, the chapter dissolved, with legend stating that the original charter, constitution, and bylaws were ritualistically burned by the brothers. After the war, there were unsuccessful attempts to petition for a new charter, including an effort in 1890. Alpha Sigma was re-established by Oliver Reagan Rowe (University of North Carolina, Class of 1925) as a local fraternity on 1 April 1923, with the purpose of regaining its charter from the Chi Psi Fraternity. At that time, Chi Psi was not soliciting new chapters nor was it accepting any applications for charters. Thus began a long, deliberate effort to have the mother alpha of the South revived. Finally, in June 1928, Alpha Sigma was re-established as a Chi Psi chapter and has remained active since then, even through a devastating house fire in 1929 and the hardships brought on by the Great Depression and World War II.

Sigmas strive for excellence in their endeavors, following the plan laid out by Oliver Rowe, the father of Alpha Sigma and one-time president of Chi Psi Fraternity. Campus leadership has often emerged from the ranks of Alpha Sigma. Nineteen student body presidents were Chi Psi, and the editorship of The Daily Tar Heel was often held by a Sigma. Chapter members have also distinguished themselves as Morehead Scholars, Rhodes Scholars, and Phi Beta Kappa inductees. Alpha Sigma is known as one of the most involved fraternities on campus and has received awards from the university's Office of Greek Affairs. It has also been the recipient of several awards from the Chi Psi National Fraternity, including the Thayer Trophy for best alpha thirteen times since 1951.

From the guide to the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Chi Psi Records, 1854-2004 (bulk 1928-1960), (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Library. University Archives.)