Beta Sigma Phi Chapters of Henderson, Texas

Collection

Identifier: B-0163

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection consists of nineteen scrapbooks, two songbooks, a charter for the Texas Zeta Theta Chapter, and loose materials from the various Henderson chapters of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority: Laureate Theta Omicron, Zeta Theta, Xi Nu Omicron, and Preceptor Nu Delta. The scrapbooks were created throughout and/or at the end of each year (as dated) to showcase what the chapter had accomplished and to celebrate the members. Contents of the scrapbooks include photographs, ephemera, correspondence, newspaper clippings, awards of achievement, paperwork, and information about members, committees, officers, meetings, events and socials, conventions, programs, rituals, Founder’s Day celebrations, and philanthropic activity completed by the associated chapter. The folders of loose materials are documents that were left in the back of various scrapbooks, with no description or indication of where they fit into the associated scrapbook. The corresponding scrapbooks are indicated on each “Loose Materials” folder.

Dates

Event: Donated 10/31/2016.
Creation: 1945-2016

Language of Materials

The material is in English, Latin, and Greek.

Conditions Governing Access

Open for research.

Biographical / Historical

Beta Sigma Phi was founded in 1931 by Walter W. Ross for the purpose of “bring[ing] women together and expose them to a social, cultural and educational climate” while the world was preoccupied with the Great Depression (1). The fraternal organization was created out of the need for female companionship and support, later establishing its philanthropic aspect. It quickly grew through the 1930s and 1940s, supporting the war effort (World War II) in the United States. By the 1950s, Beta Sigma Phi membership had doubled. In the second half of the twentieth century, the sorority became less formal, and it continues to morph with the changing times. The chapters plan socials where they get to enjoy each other’s company, put on cultural programs where members can learn about virtually anything, engage in community outreach through fundraisers and volunteering, and get together with other chapters at conventions every year. Each chapter can determine the specifics of their social, programs, and service projects. Beta Sigma Phi provides women of all ages with the opportunity to “contribute to [their] community, develop lifelong friendships, and polish leadership skills” (2). One of the most important celebrations Beta Sigma Phi celebrates is Founder’s Day, honoring the founder, Walter W. Ross, and all members, current and previous, that have upheld the sorority and its values. As of 2022, there are over 5,000 active chapters located all over the world, with the international headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri. The Henderson, Texas chapters covered in this collection are Texas Laureate Theta Omicron, founded in 2002, Zeta Theta, founded in 1946, Xi Nu Omicron, founded in 1971, and Preceptor Nu Delta, founded in 1992. Sources: • (1) (2) Official Beta Sigma Phi website - https://bspinternational.org/home.php • Collection materials

• (1) (2) Official Beta Sigma Phi website - https://bspinternational.org/home.php • Collection materials