About Us

History

The history of Pi Kappa Alpha International Fraternity dates back to March 1, 1868. Since then it has continued to build a membership of men who share similar ideals of friendship, truth, honour, and loyalty.

It started with six men in Room 47 West Range, at the University of Virginia when Frederick Southgate Taylor, Littleton Waller Tazewell, James Benjamin Sclater, Jr., and Robertson Howard. Those four men elected to include Julian Edward Wood in the formation of Pi Kappa Alpha. Later, William Alexander, probably a friend of Sclater, Jr., was proposed for membership and was admitted as a founder.

The essence of the Founders' vision for Pi Kappa Alpha can be found in its Preamble. Composed by Howard and Tazewell, the Preamble is still used and honored by Pike Chapters today.

Pi Kappa Alpha Preamble

Sunday Evening,

March 1, 1868

University of Virginia

For the establishment of friendship on a firmer and more lasting basis; for the promotion of brotherly love and kind feeling; for the mutual benefit and advancement of the interests of those with whom we sympathize and deem worthy of our regard; We have resolved to form a Fraternity, believing that, thus we can most successfully accomplish our object.

Robertson Howard

Julian Edward Wood

James Benjamin Sclater, Jr.

Frederick Southgate Taylor

Littleton Waller Tazewell (Bradford)

William Alexander

How it all began.

What began in Room 47 West Range at the University of Virginia back in 1868 has now endured for well over a century, growing into one of the largest fraternal organizations in the world.

How? The reason is simple. Pi Kappa Alpha has remained dedicated to developing men of integrity, intellect, success and high moral character, and to fostering a truly lifelong fraternal experience.