Founded in 1882 at Buchtel College
Lone Star Fraternity (Pi Kappa Epsilon) is the oldest local fraternity in the United States and the only chapter in existence. It was founded on February 22, 1882, by William VanNess Yates at Buchtel College (now The University of Akron) in Akron, Ohio.
Yates founded the fraternity as an alternative to Delta Tau Delta and Phi Delta Theta, which were already established at the college. The first meeting took place on February 3, 1882, and the fraternity quickly became a key part of the campus culture
Early Years and Growth (1880s – 1930s)
- The original objective of Lone Star was stated by Yates:
“The improvement of the individual members and the furtherance of good fellowship among the students at large.”
- Initially, membership was scarce, but as enrollment at the university grew in the 1920s and 1930s, so did Lone Star’s membership.
- By the 1920s, the fraternity began hosting formal dances, dinners, and outings, strengthening its presence in the community.
- As Buchtel College evolved into The University of Akron, Lone Star Fraternity became a recognized Greek organization, officially adopting the Greek letters Pi Kappa Epsilon (PKE).
Establishing Tradition and Presence (1890s – 1950s)
- Lone Star remained near or on campus throughout its history, providing continuity for active members and alumni.
- This strong alumni network has allowed generations of Lone Stars to stay connected, often assisting younger members with professional opportunities after graduation.
- Records from 1891-2012 include:
- Archived meeting minutes, correspondence, scrapbooks, logbooks, photographs, and financial records.
- The “Book” tradition, a logbook placed at the fraternity house’s main entrance, where members left notes and announcements.
Greek Life and Campus Leadership (1970s – 1980s)
- As Greek life at the University of Akron expanded, Lone Star became a major player in campus activities.
- The infamous Lone Star House at 160 Fir Hill became a hub for academics, athletics, and social life.
- Lone Star actively participated in fundraising and philanthropy:
- Hosted the annual “Walk for Hunger”.
- Established the Lone Star Freedom Program, supporting the Wounded Warrior Project.
Continued Impact on the University (1990s – Present)
- Lone Star has contributed to many prominent buildings on campus, including:
- Simmons Hall
- Bulger Hall
- C. Blake McDowell Law Center
- Lee R. Jackson Track & Field Complex
- Shrank Hall
- The fraternity has produced notable alumni, including:
- William T. Sawyer (Akron Mayor)
- Hezzleton E. Simmons (UA President)
- C. Blake McDowell (Lawyer)
- William Considine (CEO of Akron Children’s Hospital)
The Next Chapter: A New Lone Star House
- 2022 marked the fraternity’s 140th anniversary.
- A new fraternity house is under construction at 503-505 Vine Street.
- The Lone Star Alumni Board continues to work on strengthening the charter, governance policies, and compliance regulations.
