1903-04 Volume 28 No 1–5 - Phi Delta Theta Scroll Archive

THE SCROLL.— • • - « —Vol. XXVIII. OCTOBER, i903. No. J.— * • * —OFnCIAL PLATE OF THE COAT-OF-ARMS.The coat-of-arms adopted by the semi-centennial convention,1898, was the result of a painstaking consultation ofheraldic authorities, and it conforms to the fixed requirementsof heraldry. The design is simple, and there is anavoidance of any overcrowded effect. The 4> A ® characterof the emblems is obvious to all, while to the initiated thearmorial bearings symbolize the cardinal principles of thefraternity.The arms were rather hurriedly engraved, so that impressionsmight be used for inserts in college annuals publishedduring 1898-99. The bend and the stars were notproperly shaded, and the open motto was not properly accented.The engraver did not follow directions in regard tothe upper part of the visor, and, without authority, placed asmall crescent on the front of the helmet.The national conventian of 1902 decided that a new plateof the arms should be made by 'some well-known engraver,'and that it should be the official plate. The general councildecided upon The Dreka Company, of Philadelphia, to dothe work, and appointed Bro. W. B. Palmer to give directionsin regard to the matter. While in Philadelphia lastspring he called on the company a number of times, and hismost minute instructions were followed. Drawing andproofs were submitted also to Dr. J. E. Brown, P. G. C, forcriticism. The plate was finished in August.The frontispiece of this number of THE ScROLiris an impressionfrom the new steel plate, which will hereafter beknown as the official plate of the coat-of-arms. The newplate is larger than the old one, and the engraving is muchsuperior. We are sure that not only will it give entire satisfactionbut will excite general admiration.Impressions from the new plate should be used in all collegeannuals issued this collegiate year at institutions where