FIRST GAMMA PHI BETA CONVENTION
"After a feast which exceeded our wildest dreams, we adjourned to the parlors for a good time. May all future Conventions prove as pleasant and enjoyable as this - our first one."
     -Blanche Shove (Syracuse, 1878), Convention 1883 secretary

The Sorority's first Convention was held on November 8-9,1883, in Syracuse, New York, at the Alpha Chapter Hall.

A transcript of the original handwritten minutes of Convention 1883 are preserved in the Gamma Phi Beta museum. 

The song, "Jolly Girls of Gamma Phi" was followed by the roll call of officers and delegates, which included 13 sisters. Pictured is Cornelia Brown (Syracuse, 1881), one of 13 Convention 1883 attendees. It is not confirmed, but evidence suggests Cornelia was related to Dr. John Brown, the man who helped our Founders significantly during our founding and early beginnings.

It was at this Convention where the Gamma Phi Beta password we still use today was accepted. This portion was originally erased in the minutes, but one is able to read under the erasures.