Insight Into the Past Exhibit

The literary societies on campus were one of the primary ways for students to socialize on campus. Though they had Greek names, they were not what we would now consider “Greek Life” (e.g. fraternities and sororities). Literary societies were gendered groups of students who would regularly meet to participate in activities that ranged anywhere from book readings, to hosting academics, to debate nights. These groups would also host theatricals throughout the year for the whole college to enjoy. They were split into four different groups: two male societies (the Athenians and Alpha Sigma) and two female societies (the Bainonians and Theta Epsilon). The majority of students were a member of one of these societies.