History of Acacia Fraternity

What is Acacia?

The Acacia Fraternity who's motto is "Human Service," is a general international college social fraternity. In each of the chartered chapters on campuses across the U.S. and Canada, college men greet each other as brothers because, as Acacians, they share a common origin in the obligations and symbolism of the fraternity.

Acacia is a "Greek" fraternity and as such it was one of the founding members of the National Interfraternity Conference. But Acacia is unique in that it is the only general national Greek fraternity to select an entire Greek word rather than a combination of letters for its name.

Acacia is a private organization composed of individuals exercising their constitutional right to free association. Just as no one is required to join Acacia, no one has a right to receive membership. Acacia membership is a privilege that is extended only by invitation of an undergraduate chapter to individuals whom the chapter believes will make worthy and compatible additions to its ranks.

Acacia is an independent organization that owes allegiance to no other group. Acacia was founded, however, by members of the Masonic Fraternity, and because of this tradition Acacia enjoys an informal, Spiritual tie to Masonry. But, although many Acacians eventually join the Masonic Fraternity and Masonic Lodges and individual Masons have been of invaluable service to Acacia chapters over the years, this relationship is entirely voluntary.

To provide an example of the ideals of Scholarship, Wisdom and Brotherhood that the founders wished to embody in The Acacia Fraternity, they selected Pythagoras to serve as Acacia's mentor. Much of the traditions, symbolism and ritual of the fraternity is based on the life and teachings of Pythagoras, and knowledge of this remarkable man's life will assist in understanding Acacia.

The Six Meanings Of Acacia

AKAKIA is a Greek word which, according to earliest known history, has been used to designate Distinctiveness and Leadership among Mankind. The original and Greek spelling of Acacia is with a "K" instead of a "C" due to the fact that the Greek alphabet does not contain a "C."

AKAKIA has also been used to designate the Spirit of Immortality or Survival of the Soul, and reminds us of the need to live a life always mindful of the Immortality of the Soul.

AKAKIA is the name of a Far Eastern Evergreen which survived the seasons, and grew and thrived in barren lands, ever standing out as a symbol of Strength and Ruggedness; reminding us that we too, as individuals, should be lastingly mindful of the inspiration to be string and rugged; to face the problems of life as Acacians and representatives of our fraternity and our college.

AKAKIA trees indicate a truly masculine state having the power to pollenize or perpetuate life. We too, as Acacians, should import strength and protection to the weaker, and use our Education and Association for the good of all.

AKAKIA has a ritualistic significance in the Age-Old Order to which the fraternity owes its Heritage. This order has ever held for the Freedom of the Individual to commune with his God and to Him alone be accountable. As mortal men we are reminded to live our lives so that when called before God we can without qualm account for our conduct as Men among those with whom we have traveled along life's pathway.

AKAKIA our fraternity, is ever reminding is of our duty to its age-honored symbolic meanings, and our responsibilities as Acacians toward those with whom we associate.

Copyright 1995-2006 Vermont Acacia, Inc.