University of Puerto Rico fraternity’s centennial roots

Postmark Pursuit by Molly Goad

On Dec. 17, 1923, beneath the shade of a gum tree on the University of Puerto Rico campus, a pivotal moment unfolded.

United by the desire to address repression by university authorities, strike leaders Pelayo Roman Benitez, Felix Ochoteco, Isaiah M. Crespo, Wilson P. Colberg, Alfonso Paniagua and Mario Polanco founded the Phi Eta Mu Fraternity.

The postmark shared here celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the organization’s humble beginnings.

Since then, Phi Eta Mu emerged as one of the most enduring organizations within the University of Puerto Rico and laid the foundation for the fraternity movement in the area.

It proudly claims the title of the oldest fraternity in the region, a distinction shared with being the oldest student organization within the University of Puerto Rico and the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts of Mayaguez.

To delve deeper into Phi Eta Mu’s history and impact, visit the fraternity’s official website.

To obtain the postmark, address your request to:

CENTENNIAL Station, Customer Relations Specialist, 585 Avenue FD Roosevelt, Suite 223, San Juan, PR 00936-9998, Dec. 15.

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