Institute in Kanawha County, West Virginia — The American South (Appalachia)
Kappa Alpha Psi
The history of the Kappa Diamond
The diamond is one of the most adored and recognized symbols of the fraternity. Its significance is highly treasured by the members of our Noble Clan. Our badge was designed by Found Byron K. Armstrong at the close of the 1911-1912 school year. Although the exact date isn't absolutely clear when the diamond was conceived, we know that it began in June 1912. It's safe to say that the concept of the diamond was finalized sometime in the year 1912. Founder Armstrong made many drawings in various styles and forms, shields, odd shapes and diamonds. After some time of self-reflection, he finally selected the diamond as being the most attractive to him. The first design was flat, with a beveled edge and no raised scroll. It was enameled in white and lettered in gold. There were no jewels. There were three badges made and they were owned by Founders Lee, Alexander and Armstrong. In 1912 Founder Armstrong suggested raising the scroll and he had a copy made by a jeweler in Fort Wayne, Indiana in the spring of 1913. The location of the original pin is unknown, as it was lost by Founder Armstrong sometime in 1915.
Erected 2007 by Phi Nu Pi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans
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Location. 38° 22.774′ N, 81° 46.026′ W. Marker is in Institute, West Virginia, in Kanawha County. Marker is on President Drive, 0.2 miles west of Chestnut Avenue, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Dunbar WV 25064, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Delta Sigma Theta (within shouting distance of this marker); Kappa Chapter, Theta Psi (within shouting distance of this marker); Nu Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (within shouting distance of this marker); ΑΦΑ Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated (within shouting distance of this marker); Canty House (within shouting distance of this marker); Katherine Coleman Goble Johnson (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); East Hall (about 400 feet away); Veterans Memorial (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Institute.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 5, 2021. It was originally submitted on August 4, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 1,540 times since then and 315 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 4, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Transcription of the names on the marker. • Can you help?
