ΦΔΘ: Theophilus and Co.

Phi Delta Theta, Indiana University’s second fraternity, was established at IU in 1849.  The organization often recognized outstanding professors as honorary members, and the Indiana Alpha Chapter welcomed Theophilus A. Wylie into their ranks in 1853.  The fraternity paid great respect to Wylie upon his death in 1895 and left a floral shield, representing the badge of Phi Delta Theta, at his grave.

Theophilus’ fraternal loyalty inspired several other Wylie family members to join Phi Delta Theta.  Arthur Calvin Mellette, who boarded at the Wylie House when he was a student at IU and later married Theophilus’ daughter Maggie, became a member of Phi Delta Theta in 1864.  In 1903, Arthur and Maggie’s son Anton became a legacy of Phi Delta Theta at IU.  Two of Theophilus’ nephews, Theodore W. J. Wylie and Reddick A. Wylie, joined the fraternity in 1877 and 1893.

A letter written by the IU Phi Delta Theta Chapter to Theophilus’ wife Rebecca reveals the fraternity’s sincere regard for their late brother upon his death in 1895:

ΦΔΘ: Theophilus and Co.