Fraternity celebrates the tradition of Paddy Murphy

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity takes pride in its long-standing traditions. For this reason, the BSU chapter of the fraternity is taking time on Thursday, April 7, through Saturday, April 9, to recognize and remember a fallen brother in the fraternity.

According to a document released by the Idaho Beta Company, SAE member Paddy Murphy was an outstanding member of Al Capone’s gang in the 1920s. Though Murphy was recognized as being faithful and responsible within the organization, he pursued a romantic interest in one of Capone’s girlfriends. When Capone found out, he became angry and set out to harm Murphy.

Murphy realized he was in danger, and fled to the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity house. Capone and his colleagues followed Murphy, shooting him numerous times as Murphy ran to the front door of the house. Murphy knocked repeatedly and was shot one final time as the door was opened. He gave the SAE handshake to the member standing in the doorway before passing away.

This famous story has sparked a three-day-long nationally recognized SAE tradition, which begins with the carrying of a casket through campus by current SAE members. The procession will take place on Thursday at 11 a.m. and will travel by the Engineering Building, the Morrison Center, and the Quad. This will be immediately followed by a wake in the Student Union Building.

Friday, the SAE members will attend a closed funeral in Murphy’s honor.

The final event will take place on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn on Vista Ave. This celebration, called the Paddy Murphy Celebration, is open to all BSU students and will feature live music and dancing. There is no charge for attending the event, but donations will be accepted.

President of the BSU chapter of SAE, Jim Wolfe, is excited about the prospect of bringing this tradition to the BSU campus.

“Our fraternity hopes that this event will be something that benefits BSU students now and in the years to come,” Wolfe said.

Wolfe wishes to extend an invitation to all to partake in the week’s events.

“To all students at BSU, please come and join in our celebration."

Danielle Verhulp
News Writer

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