Founding of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity
County:
Warren
Picture:
Location:
The marker is located in Monmouth on the grounds of the Holt House which is at 402 East First Avenue where it intersects with South Third Street.
Latitude:
40.911
Longitude:
-90.6443
Dedication Date:
01/01/2009
Dedication By:
Pi Beta Phi Fraternity and the Illinois State Historical Society
Marker Description:
On April 28, 1867, the national women’s fraternity movement began here in the home of Jacob Holt. I a second floor bedroom, shared by Ada Bruen and Libbie Brook, twelve Monmouth College co-eds founded I.C. Sorosis, known today by its Greek motto, Pi Beta Phi. The organization was similar to men’s fraternities, and it quickly expanded with two new chapters added in 1868 and 1869.
The fraternity’s 1940 Convention voted to preserve the home as a memorial to its founders. The renovated Holt House opened on April 26, 1941.
Map: