Series 9: Phi Kappa Psi / Phi Alpha Psi, 1915-1971
Scope and Contents
Series 9 is composed of the records of the Amherst Chapter of Phi Kappa Psi, renamed Phi Alpha Psi after its split with the national organization over issues of racial discrimination in 1948. Of interest is the extensive documentation of the conflict with the national fraternity over racial discrimination and the surrounding correspondence, press coverage and trial material. This was the first instance of a local fraternity challenging its national on the topic of discrimination to gain national attention and the papers reflect the level of national interest (supportive and not) in the events at Amherst.
Dates
- Creation: 1915-1971
Conditions Governing Access
The following restrictions to access apply to the Fraternities Collection: material less than 50 years old may be restricted; material containing information protected by privacy laws is restricted permanently; and particularly fragile items may be restricted for preservation purposes.
Extent
From the Collection: 46 Linear feet (42 records storage boxes, 2 archives boxes, 3 half archives boxes, 3 oversize boxes)
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Repository Details
Part of the Amherst College Archives and Special Collections Repository
Amherst College Archives & Special Collections
Robert Frost Library
61 Quadrangle Drive
Amherst MA 01002-5000
(413) 542-2299
archives@amherst.edu