November 3, 1914 was Tuesday and Election Day in Philadelphia. The headlines in the Public Ledger, then the most respected newspaper in Philadelphia, read:
" Nation's Eyes on Election Here Today"
"Britain Makes All North Sea A Military Area"
"City Park Benches Welcomed as Beds for Derelicts"
More comprehensive reporting would have added another important headline:
"Rho Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha F
raternity was organized." It was in this atmosphere of politics, world war and suffering of the unhoused poor that Rho Chapter was born. Its chief organizer was Brother Kirksey L. who was initiated into Alpha Chapter while a student at Cornell in 1910. He was assisted in the organizing by Brothers Pelham and Taylor of Nu Chapter at Lincoln University. Brothers Emile Raven, M.D. and DeHaven Hinkson, M.D. were charter members. Rho Chapter grew out of a felt need and desire of these men, who completed their college careers, to maintain their ties with Alpha. Rho's first President was Brother Kirksey L. Curd. During the years of his administration, 1914-1916, the constitution and by-laws were written and the high tone of individual progress and spirit of community responsibility was set. Rho has been the home of many distinguished Alpha men, notably the late Brother Walter F. Jerrick, who became president in 1916. In 1917 the 10th General Convention was brought to Philadelphia under the sponsorship of the chapter, and in 1928 the city entertained the 21st General Sessions. Rho Chapter also was Host for the 1958 General Convention and the 1970 General Convention as well. There is a period in the history of Rho commonly known as the Jerrick Years. This is the period from 1916 to 1952. During these years the office of President was held by Brother Walter F. Jerrick M.D. He was a dynamic personality and an outstanding leader. He led Rho in becoming a respected influence in Alpha Phi Alpha activities and was nationally recognized as "Mr. Alpha Phi Alpha." Under his leadership which lasted thirty-five years Rho become a respected influence in National Fraternity activities. Brother Kirksey L. Curd was elected to the office of General Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Brothers Jerrick and O.Wilson Winters D.D.S. became the first life members of Alpha. Brother Robert Henry Sr. M.D. was elected to the office of treasurer of Rho and served thirty-five years. Throughout the years, Rho Chapter has hosted national and regional conventions, supported all fraternity programs, promoted scholarship and achievement among its members and others and provided leadership on national, regional and district levels of the fraternity. Rho brothers continue to work to improve the Philadelphia community and have remained actively involved in all aspects of this great organization.
