“Alpha Theta Phi, we would sing to thee; Silver, gold and blue, we would sing to you …”
If you’ve ever stood in a circle of Tri Deltas—hands clasped, voices lifted—you’ve likely sung “Alpha Theta Phi.” Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics have been part of our sisterhood for more than a century, echoing through generations of members at Ritual, chapter meetings and conventions. But have you ever wondered where this beloved song came from and who wrote it?
Music has played an important role in Tri Delta since the early days of our Alpha Chapter. Whether sung during Ritual, recruitment, candle lightings or campus song competitions, music has always been a way to express friendship, pride and unity. Among all the tunes that have filled Tri Delta halls, “Alpha Theta Phi” stands out as one of the most sentimental.
Written in 1912 by Laura Alton, Knox, “Alpha Theta Phi” first appeared in the 1912 edition of “Songs of Delta Delta Delta” and was later used to open Tri Delta’s 1915 Convention. Set to the melody of “Dream of Heaven” in three-quarter waltz time, it’s typically sung as members gather in a circle—hands joined, voices blending, often to open or close a Tri Delta event.
Few realize that the song actually includes two verses. Its lyrics, inspired by Tri Delta’s Stars & Crescent Degree of Initiation, remind members of our three foundational values of truth, self-sacrifice and friendship.
After graduating from Knox College in 1908, Laura Alton’s commitment to service continued beyond Tri Delta. In her hometown of Keokuk, Iowa, she became active in the Red Cross, later organizing the local home service network following World War I. She went on to serve with the Visiting Nurse Association, first as a nurse and then as secretary until her retirement.
Outside of her professional life, Laura helped found Keokuk’s Civic Chorus, led a local literary club and co-founded the local Book Fair through the American Association of University Women, where she was a charter member. She was even one of the first women golfers at her country club, earning a reputation as a talented and spirited competitor!
When Laura Alton passed away in 1965, she left behind not only a legacy of service and leadership but also a melody that continues to bring Tri Deltas together more than a century later. Every time we sing “Alpha Theta Phi,” we honor this gift—a song that reminds us of who we are and what unites us across time and distance.
“Alpha Theta Phi
We would sing to thee
Silver, gold and blue
We would sing to you
May we ever be
Faithful unto thee
May the bonds of love
Be all else above
Our Fraternity.
Ruler of the sea
We would sing to thee
Trident bold and true
We would sing to you
May we never stray
From thy sceptered way
From the friends of youth
And the ties of truth
Our Fraternity.“
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