Baird's Manual of American College Fraternities (1879)/I. K. A.

Shortly after the foundation of Trinity, then called Washington College, a secret organization was founded, called the “Corax Club.” In 1829 the nucleus thus formed was developed into the fraternity now under consideration. It is the oldest of the college local societies, and for a few years was obliged to hold its meetings in secret. The names most prominently connected with its foundation are Samuel Starr, ’29; W. Van Zandt, ’29; John B. Ashe, ’30; Robert T. Paine, ’32; John S. Phelps, ’32.; Joseph M. Warren, ’32; and Robert W. Nichols, ’32.

The badge is a St. Andrew's cross, worn saltire; three of the arms bear the letters “IKA,” the fourth being engraved with the date “1776.” Upon the reverse are the letters “ωθ,” together with a single Roman letter. The graduates’ pin is the same but smaller. The color is royal purple, and is worn annually on St. Andrew’s day and other college holidays.

The fraternity issued its first catalogue in 1839, and has issued them regularly since. The total membership is 214, 59 being deceased. Its prominent alumni include the Hon. John S. Phelps, ex-Governor of Missouri; the late Hon. Robert W. Nichols, of Louisiana Supreme Court; the late Most Rev. James R. Bayley, of Baltimore, Primate of the United States; Hon. John T. Wait, of Connecticut; Hon. Dwight W. Pardee, of the Connecticut Supreme Court; Rev. Thomas Gallaudet, of St. Ann's Church, New York; the late Brigadier General G. E. B. Singletary; Hon. Charles C. Van Zandt, Governor of Rhode Island; Rev. George Mallory, of the “Churchman,” and many others. The semi-centennial of the fraternity was celebrated in 1879, and among the events of the year was the society’s incorporation by a number of prominent alumni.

The fraternity has been closely connected with Trinity College in every way, and its graduates are prominent in the government of the college. It possesses an exceptionally fine collection of historical memorabilia in regard to the college.