Phi Gamma Delta, 1879 - 1910, 1950 - 1966, 1990 - 1991

The Alpha Deuteron Chapter is the eleventh chapter of Phi Gamma Delta. It was the first fraternity founded at Illinois Wesleyan University, dating back to December 4th, 1866.

History of Phi Gamma Delta - 1895 Wesleyana

Being the pioneer fraternity in the Wesleyan, her early years were to some extent a struggle, but by exertion she became strong, by victories stronger. She embraces in her membership today, as formerly, much of the worth and talent of the Wesleyan. The chapter was organized twenty-seven years ago, with Messrs. M. Auer, A. J. Banta, M. F. Bishop, Charles Atherton, J. C. Hartzell, and S. Q. Davidson, six enthusiastic and zealous young men, as charter members. Since its organization, the chapter has taken in two hundred and twenty-five students, of whom one hundred and thirty have been graduated. The Chapter is well represented on the staff of the WESLEYAN Argus, which fact pays the fraternity a well deserved compliment. In literary work the Chapter fills a prominent place, and maintains a high standard of excellence. The Y.M.CA. finds many of its most ardent and efficient supporters among 'the members of this fraternity, and their true character is apparent in the zest and zeal shown in the work.

History of Alpha Deuteron - Wesleyan Bee 12-1-1882

Alpha Deuteron Chapter, of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity, was organized in the Illinois Wesleyan University during the school year 1866-7. In the early history of our institution secret societies were not accorded a particularly warm quarter in the hearts of "the powers that" were. This, combined with the fact that until a few years since, more regard was had by students for the open societies than the Greek letter fraternities, tended to make the early career of Alpha Deuteron somewhat irregular and uncertain. However, the fittest survive-and here we are. Until last year the fraternity had no congenial place of meeting, but held sessions on appointed nights wherever the brethren happened to flock. For the most part, the sessions were held in some of the recitation rooms of the University. The first member to arrive would make a fire and entertain the stove until the others would put in appearance-each one late, fearing lest he would have to inaugurate the blaze. Last year, through the herculean labors of the fraters then in school, a magnificent hall was fitted up and dedicated to the use of Alpha Deuteron. It is the south-west room on the first floor of the old college building. The improvements, furniture and fixtures cost over $400. In this elegant hall we now meet. We do good work; do hard work; do no foolishness.

Mission Statement: Phi Gamma Delta is dedicated to developing men of character within the academic setting, with the aim that they will become fully contributing members of society. In pursuit of this mission, the Fraternity promotes five core values:

Friendship, which brings us together and is the basis of our brotherhood. Knowledge, the primary reason our members attend college and the key to a fuller, richer life. Service, in recognition of our obligation to give back to the campus and community that foster our growth. Morality, our commitment to do what is right in all our relationships. Excellence, the achievement of the full potential of the chapter and the individual members.