The Founding

Alpha Nu was installed on September 24, 1884 with the initiation of its first four brothers: Rogers Whaley, Atwell J. Clopton, William T. Levy, and George S. Berry. The history of Alpha Nu, like most others, has its periods of ups and downs.  Five years after installation, membership dropped to two members.  Alpha Nu recovered and carried the Sigma Chi Flag alone in the lone star state for 64 years until the installation of the Sigma Chi Chapter at SMU.

20th Century

One of the first initiates in the 20th century, Wilbur P. Allen – AN ’01, gained the Fraternity’s highest honor when he was elected 17th Grand Consul in 1915.  Five years later, Alpha Nu purchased our first Chapter House at 306 W. 19th Street.  Unfortunately, in 1936, the House caught fire and burned down early one Thursday morning.  With the help of Brothers Butler, Al DeViney, A. E. Cooper, and Billy Richardson, Alpha Nu bought the old Baker home at the corner of 27th and Nueces.

The 20th century also brought Alpha Nu many of the Chapter’s traditions.  The annual western themed party, Sigma Chi Saloon, and Sigma Chi Fight Night were conceived and expanded into premier events in West Campus.  While traditions like these gave Alpha Nu a unique identity at UT, our long tradition of excellence transcends time.  All of our 20 Significant Sigs were initiated in the 20th Century.

21st Century

A series of unfortunate events caused Alpha Nu to be suspended in 2004.  With the tireless desire and dedication of our alumni to bring Sigma Chi back to the University of Texas, Alpha Nu came back in 2009. Since re-installation, the Chapter has undergone unprecedented growth.  By constantly exemplifying our Ritual and building an environment conductive to the development of character and growth of the individual, Alpha Nu stands a top organization among the University of Texas and Sigma Chi International.  The recent construction of a new chapter house will help continue this legacy and provide for the best undergraduate experience Alpha Nu has ever been able to offer its 184 brothers.