The idea of creating a Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in Columbus, GA originated in the minds of four Florida A & M University graduates stationed at Fort Benning, GA: Brother Leo T. Harrison, Brother James L. Green, Brother William "Bill" Adams, and Brother Charles Carey. These brothers believed Columbus was ready for a chapter of this astonishing fraternity.
With this concept in mind, these four brothers met with four other Omega men at the local U.S.O in Columbus. They were Brother E.E. Farley from Morehouse College, Brother A.J. McClung from Tuskegee Institute, Brother B.T. Folkes, a graduate of Atlanta University, and Brother Nelson McMillan former scholar at then Clark College.
The eight Omega men met several times at the U.S.O. Brother E.E. Farley inquired through the National Office on procedures and credentials necessary for a chapter. The brothers responded appropriately and petitioned the National Office for a charter.
On May 14, 1945, a Charter was issued from the National Office for the establishment of Lambda Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc... Columbus, GA. Charter officers were:
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Brother E.E. Farley
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Basileus
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Brother James L. Green
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Vice-Basileus
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Brother Leo T. Harrison
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Keeper of Finance
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Brother Charles H. Carey
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Parliamentarian
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Brother William "Bill" Adams
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Editor to the Oracle
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Brother Nelson McMillan
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Keeper of Peace
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Brother B. T. Folkes
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Chaplain
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During its initial years, Chapter meetings alternated between Brothers homes. The thought of obtaining a Fraternity house was first considered by Brother E.A. Bryantm, who offered land he owned.
Through the years the idea of establishing a Chapter Fraternity house remained in the minds of Brothers, and was rekindled by Brother Raymond Whittaker, along with several other Brothers in Columbus. This dream eventually became a reality on May 15 1978! Lambda Iota's First Fraternity House was located at 712 Second Avenue.