Local
History
Alpha
Xi Delta's Epsilon chapter was installed at the University of South
Dakota on June 15, 1903. Edna Epperson Brinkman officiated
at the installation. Epsilon was the first women's greek
letter fraternity at USD. The new Alpha Xi Deltas immediately
started a program of campus and fraternity involvement that lead
to growth, achievement, and honor.
The
first chapter house was rented and acquired in 1919. Later,
the corporation purchased a house, which was
sold to a fraternity in 1936 when plans were underway for building. The
new house for Epsilon was an English Colonial style house. It
was completed in 1937, and the members moved in shortly after its
completion (picture on the right). In 1953 a fire started
on the third floor of the house. It is believed that paint
cans stored on the  third
floor started on fire. The front section of the house burned,
and the only items that were saved were a few personal items, the
original charter, and the grand piano. No one was injured
in the fire. Alumnae assistance and a loan helped to get
the damaged section of the house rebuilt. A new chapter room
was added in the process.
The
current members that live in the house are told the story of the
fire time after time. It symbolizes the strength of Alpha
Xi Delta members and how they can survive even after a damaging
event. The bonds of sisterhood provided the support they
needed to rebuild and stay strong. This sisterhood and support
is echoed throughout each member of Alpha Xi Delta's Epsilon Chapter.
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