Irvington in Indianapolis in Marion County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Sigma Gamma Rho
Photographed By Tom Bosse, November 20, 2022
1. Sigma Gamma Rho Marker (Front)
Amid racial and gender prejudice, seven African American teachers founded Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. in 1922 at Butler University, located here from 1875-1928. The sorority increased opportunities for African American women pursing academic degrees in education and later all majors. Sigma Gamma Rho grew quickly and, by 1925, hosted its first national convention.
The sorority incorporated nationally in 1929 and later joined the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Black Greek-Letter Organizations. Applying its mission “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” it advocated for civil rights and supported youth, women, and families in areas such as education, health, and empowerment. By 2021, the sorority included over 500 chapters.
Erected 2022 by Indiana Historical Bureau, Irvington Historical Society, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Marker Number 49.2022.3.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Education • Fraternal or Sororal Organizations • Women. In addition, it is included in the Indiana Historical Bureau Markers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1922.
Location. 39° 45.985′ N, 86° 4.606′ W. Marker is in Indianapolis
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Butler College Campus Site (about 800 feet away, measured in a direct line); Marion County Girl Scouts (approx. 0.3 miles away); Washington Irving (approx. 0.3 miles away); Grace Julian Clarke (approx. 0.4 miles away); Historic National Road (approx. 0.4 miles away); Carlos & Anne Recker House (approx. 0.4 miles away); Brown’s Corner (approx. 0.4 miles away); William Forsyth (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Indianapolis.
Photographed By Tom Bosse, November 20, 2022
2. Sigma Gamma Rho Marker (Back)
Photographed By Tom Bosse, November 20, 2022
3. Sigma Gamma Rho Marker
Photographed By Tom Bosse, November 20, 2022
4. Sigma Gamma Rho Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 21, 2022, by Tom Bosse of Jefferson City, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 143 times since then and 36 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on November 21, 2022, by Tom Bosse of Jefferson City, Tennessee. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
