Sons of the Northern Stars

In 1906, the Theta Zeta Chapter at the University of Toronto received its charter, becoming the first chapter of Beta Theta Pi to emerge in Canada. Upon the accomplishments of the Theta Zeta Chapter, the idea of expansion was ever present amidst students on other Canadian campuses. Yet, for the next three decades, Theta Zeta stood proudly, but remained the lone chapter. As years passed, new chapters were chartered, while others failed to become more than a colony. 

There is a value in knowing one’s heritage; lessons to be learned, memories to be shared and bonds to be created. This extensive anthology of anecdotes and stories will keep the reader enthralled and entertained. Sons of the Northern Stars is the first comprehensive history of Beta Theta Pi in Canada. Detailing more than 100 years of Beta brotherhood in Canada, it adds meaning and significance regarding the special contributions of “Canadian Kai” to a Great and Good Fraternity:

- The historic Toronto Chapter Fund and the story of Mike Malone, Toronto 1917;
- Memorializing brothers lost through the difficulties of war; 
- British Columbia’s roster of Rhodes Scholars and dominance in the classroom and on the ball field;
- Western Ontario’s loyal alumni, and the emergence of four energetic new chapters in the ’80s/90s;

- And what may be considered the greatest of contributions to Beta Theta Pi, that unique, inspiring Canadian Beta Spirit.

What began as a 75th anniversary tribute to the author’s own chapter, Sons of the Northern Stars symbolizes a 33-year research and story-telling project that adds additional depth to the library of treasured Beta books. And for that, the Fraternity is especially grateful to Ken Stephen, Toronto ’77.