Founding of Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Study Notes

Founding of SAE

SAE was founded on March 9, 1856, by Noble Leslie DeVotie and seven other founding fathers.
Abner Patton became the first president of SAE.

Founder's Background

Noble Leslie DeVotie was the valedictorian at 18 and enlisted as a chaplain in the Confederate Army, dying as the first Alabama casualty during the Civil War.

Initial Chapters

The first ten chapters established between 1856 and 1858 were located primarily in the Southern United States, starting with Alabama Mu at the University of Alabama.

Civil War Impact

SAE experienced significant losses during the Civil War; six founding fathers fought, with three casualties including DeVotie.
Only one chapter, Washington City Rho, survived the war.

Post-Civil War Revitalization

Following the war, SAE was revived by brothers like John Bagby and Robert Atkinson, focusing on re-establishing chapters at universities.
The fraternity grew post-war, with the first northern chapter chartered at Pennsylvania College (Gettysburg) in 1883.

Expansion and Leadership

Harry S. Bunting, who initiated in 1886, helped double the number of chapters to nearly 50, expanding especially in the North between 1887 and 1894.
William C. Levere, initiated as a chapter member, became a prominent figure and historian for SAE, dedicating years to the fraternity's history and growth.

The 20th Century Developments

SAE maintained stability during the Great Depression, expanding with additional chapters despite slowed enrollment.
Leadership School began in 1935, growing significantly each year, except during WWII when it moved to a cruise ship.

World War Involvement

SAE members were active participants in both World Wars; 8,000 brothers fought in WWI and 19,000 in WWII, with significant casualties.

The True Gentleman

The "True Gentleman," attributed to John Walter Wayland, became a central creed of SAE in 2001 and was officially adopted in 1930, influencing fraternity values and leadership.

Local History and Governance

Wisconsin Alpha was the 89th chapter, founded in 1903; its history includes various notable events and challenges, such as a pivotal Halloween party leading to a charter revocation.
The founding executive board and subsequent boards from 2012 to 2014 reflected evolving leadership and governance in the fraternity.

Important Figures

Lucy Pattie became the only female member of SAE, entrusted with significant documents and recognized for her contributions during the war.
John's leadership and efforts helped maintain fraternity unity and stability through difficult historical contexts and transitions.

Description

Explore the history of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, founded in 1856 by Noble Leslie DeVotie and others. This quiz covers the fraternity's founding principles, initial chapters, and its survival through the Civil War. Test your knowledge on SAE's influential figures and its revitalization post-war.