The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Phi Delta Theta Fraternity House

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Phi Delta Theta Fraternity House (three-quarter view), Franklin College

Institution Name: Franklin College
Original/Historic Place Name: Phi Delta Theta Fraternity House
Location on Campus: 698 East Monroe St.
Date(s) of Construction:

1926	original construction

Designer: unknown
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Other (Glossary)
Significance: education, history
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: concrete

Walls: brick

Roof: wood shingles and asphalt shingles

Function:

1926-present (2006)

Greek letter society

Narrative:
The Phi Delta Theta fraternity house is the oldest fraternity house on campus (1926) and was the first fraternity established at Franklin College (1860). George Banta, a member of Franklin College's chapter of Phi Delta Theta, was one of two Phi Delta Theta members accorded the title of "Second Founder" by the international fraternity in recognition of their contributions to the growth and success of the organization during the two decades from 1870 to 1890. Banta was also largely responsible for the movement of Delta Gamma sorority to the northern states. Banta established the first northern Delta Gamma chapter at Franklin College in 1879, which led to an informal association between the two organizations that has lasted to this day. Delta Gamma is still considered Phi Delta Theta's "sister" sorority while Phi Delta Theta is considered Delta Gamma's "brother" fraternity.

References: