Kappa Alpha History

On February 23, 1869 the Delta chapter of Kappa Alpha Order was founded at Wofford College. Four men, Peebles, Haynes, Rogers, and Newton, were the founding fathers who signed our charter. The charter was presented and signed by Knight Commander William Wilson Collins. Delta Chapter is currently the longest running chapter in KA. The chapter is credited with having the oldest existing composite which now hangs in the national office. The original charter continues to hang in the dorm room of the current Number IV.

Delta's most famous alumni is William Henry Wallace. Wallace was born in Newberry, SC, in 1848 and initiated in 1869. Elected as Knight Commander on June 30, 1876, his term lasted just one year, since the laws required election of Knight Commander in odd years. Wallace was president of the Third Convention and was appointed by the Forth Convention to serve on the committee that considered merging with Northern Kappa Alpha Society. A resident of Newberry, he was editor of the Newberry Observer. Wallace died on May 16, 1924.

The chapter house at Wofford was built in 1954. The house is used for chapter meetings, rush, and social events. Delta's seven Ammen and various other awards are displayed inside. The Chapter's faculty advisor is Dr. Robert C. Jeffrey. Dr. Jeffrey has been much help and a great asset for the chapter. The chapter's honorary advisor is Dr. Constance A. Antonsen and the alumni advisors are Mr. Wade P. Keisler and Dr. Paul D. Kountz.