1875: First Anniversary
Gamma Phi Beta celebrated its first anniversary on November 11, 1875, holding their usual meeting in Professor Brown’s room, followed by a more festive celebration. The minutes read, “In the evening all repaired to the residence of Miss Addie Curtis who had issued many invitations to friends far and near, to join in celebrating Gamma Phi Beta’s Birthday.” Clara Worden wrote, “All the faculty and a large number of students” were present. Helen Dodge wrote “List, the Watchword” for the occasion. Though we don’t know who wrote the music, Helen said it was set to a tune that she “caught by ear when a small girl sang it.” The November 11 minutes concluded, “In the wee small hours the guests scattered all agreeing that a happy day had been passed.”
Audio: “List, the Watchword”