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All content Copyright © 2005, by the Alpha Iota Chapter of The Sigma Chi Fraternity

Benjamin Piatt Runkle

"courageous in spirit and idealism"
Born in West Liberty, Ohio, Runkle was 18 years when Sigma Chi was founded. He had a noteworthy military career volunteering with the militia at the outbreak of the Civil War and ending the war as a Colonel. He was seriously wounded in the battle of Shiloh and left for dead on the battlefield. Former Deke rival Whitelaw Reid wrote a glowing tribute to Runkle upon word of his death. The reports of Runkle's death turned out to be erroneous, however as he had actually survived the battle.

He was eventually promoted to Major General and was ordained as an Episcopal Priest. Runkle also served as Grand Consul (1895-1897) of the Sigma Chi Fraternity-- the only Founder to hold that position.

He died on the Fraternity's 61st birthday in 1916 and was buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, VA. In 1923, Sigma Chi erected the first of of the Founders' memorial monuments at his grave.

 
Date Last Revised: 08/07/2005