A legacy etched in stone. That’s the Levere Memorial Temple. This magnificent structure stands as a testament to William Collin “Billy” Levere. A man whose life intertwined with the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at Northwestern University.
The Levere Memorial Temple isn’t just a building. It’s a story waiting to be told. A story of ambition and dedication. A story of brotherhood and sacrifice. It’s a tribute to Billy Levere. His unwavering devotion to Sigma Alpha Epsilon shaped this temple’s existence. His legacy lives on within these walls.
Billy Levere’s journey was extraordinary. He started as a leader of the anti-fraternity movement. Ironically he became a pivotal figure in Sigma Alpha Epsilon. He held the highest elected position. He served as Eminent Supreme Archon from 1902 to 1906. He even served as Eminent Supreme Treasurer. His commitment to the fraternity was unwavering.
He wasn’t just a fraternity man. Billy Levere was a public speaker. He was a politician. He was a writer. He served as Magistrate of the Evanston City Court. He was an Illinois State Representative. He even worked as a reporter for the Chicago Evening Post. He was editor of the Evanston Index. He was editor of SAE periodicals. His life was a whirlwind of activity.
World War I interrupted his busy life. Rejected by the army and the Red Cross. He found his purpose with the YMCA. He operated a canteen in France. He earned the nickname “Smiling Billy”. Katherine Mayo wrote about his selfless service in her book That Damn Y. His dedication touched countless lives.
After the war he dedicated himself to creating a national headquarters for Sigma Alpha Epsilon. More than just an office building. He envisioned a memorial. A space to honor SAE members who died in the war. He left $25000 for this project. The Levere Memorial Temple became a reality.
Architect Arthur Howell Knox designed the Gothic structure. It includes a chapel. It has a library. It has a museum. It’s filled with stained-glass windows. It has murals. These commemorate the fraternity’s history. The cost spiraled from $200000 to $400000.
The Levere Memorial Temple opened in 1930. It’s a stunning structure. It stands as a lasting monument to “Smiling Billy”. His impact continues to resonate. The Temple remains a gathering place for Sigma Alpha Epsilon. It also serves as a testament to his life. A life dedicated to fraternity and service. Step inside the Levere Memorial Temple. Experience the legacy for yourself.