Historic Beta House serves fraternity since 1849

By Jack Mueller

Since it was erected in 1849, the Beta House, at 200 E. High St., has undergone many renovations to preserve its purpose as a home for the members of Beta Theta Pi.

Beta Theta Pi Fraternity was founded at Miami University in 1839. The fraternity’s house maintains its original structure from its construction in 1849, with the white window panes and columned doors still a feature of the structure. One unique feature is the glass sunroof that was part of the original house.

The chapter at Miami was disbanded by the national organization in 2014, following allegations of “alcohol abuse, a pattern of misconduct and hazing,” according to a Miami University news release at the time. 

The fraternity reformed a Miami chapter in 2016, and new members soon found themselves in upgraded digs. In 2018, the alumni of Beta Theta Pi raised $4 million to connect the chapter house to the national offices for Beta Theta Pi next door and modernize the entire facility.

Residents enjoy amenities including a grand piano, poker table and conference room, as well as full meal and housekeeping services.