Alpha Theta - Physical Plant

Physical Plant

The current building and property is owned by the Alpha Theta House Corporation, a New Hampshire nonprofit corporation.

The original physical plant used by Theta Chi fraternity was built by the year 1852 and used as a candy shop by confectioner E.K. Smith. Of Smith's confectionery operation, only the building housing his candy factory to the north of Alpha Theta still survives (now the Native Americans at Dartmouth house). Subsequent owners used the candy shop as a dwelling and Theta Chi fraternity eventually bought it from J.V. Hazen in 1921.

After the tragedy of 1934 membership suffered and it was decided to build a new chapter house. The house was demolished soon and the current building was constructed in 1940. The only part of the original building that remains is part of the basement that leads to the back stair and contains the laundry room, called Appalachia.

Appalachia gets its name from its proximity to the Appalachian Trail. Hikers from the trail used to be able to stop in the house, an activity which is no longer possible. House tradition still has it that ghosts walk this part of Alpha Theta, and in 2007, a ghost-hunter attempted to gain access to this part of the house. Believing it would be disrespectful to the spirits, Alpha Theta refused access, though they did allow a student to take a look.

In 2008 the Alpha Theta House Corporation did an extensive two year renovation of the house to improve the safety features of the building and the quality of life for members. Upgrades included a new fire alarm system, upgraded fire escapes, a wheelchair lift, a handicapped bathroom, a new wireless data network, and upgrades of existing bathroom and kitchen spaces.