A Legacy of Sisterhood
Over the years, the Mary Brandon Yancey House has been more than just a historic landmark; it has also served as a vibrant meeting place for a sorority dedicated to uplifting women, fostering academic excellence, and driving social change. This house continues to be a symbol of unity and service, reflecting the close-knit bonds formed between sorority sisters past and present.
After its period as a Green Book-listed destination, the Mary Brandon Yancey House transitioned into a sorority house, building on the spirit of hospitality and solidarity established by Mary Brandon Yancey herself.
Much like Mary Brandon Yancey’s commitment to education and community support, the sorority has long been involved in mentorship programs, scholarship initiatives, and various philanthropic efforts—values that naturally align with the home’s historical roots.
Many of the sorority’s alumni share stories of chapter meetings, social events, and community service projects that took place within these walls, forging a deep connection between the house’s historical significance and the organization’s modern-day aspirations.
Membership within this sorority is marked by a deep bond of friendship and loyalty that spans generations. Many sisters describe the Mary Brandon Yancey House as a “second home,” where they nurtured lifelong relationships and personal growth.
The sorority’s emphasis on academic achievement resonates with the home’s legacy as a place of learning. Whether through study groups, networking events, or tutoring initiatives, sisters have continually prioritized education—echoing the original library and educational efforts supported by Mary Brandon Yancey.
True to its traditions, the sorority has consistently engaged in service projects, fundraising events, and community outreach programs. These endeavors promote literacy, health awareness, and civic engagement—efforts that once found a natural gathering space within the house’s living room and parlors.
Many chapter members have assumed influential roles in academia, local government, and nonprofit organizations. Inspired by Mary Brandon Yancey’s model of steadfast leadership, they strive to mentor younger members, build social capital, and uplift other women of color in professional settings.
From intake ceremonies to celebratory gatherings, the house served as a backdrop for creating cherished memories. Sisters fondly recall “good luck” traditions tied to specific rooms and corners of the property.
Local children often benefited from the sorority’s reading drives, holiday toy collections, and tutoring sessions held on the premises. Many residents still remember receiving guidance and support from sisters dedicated to giving back.
Chapter artifacts, such as scrapbooks, photo albums, and regalia, help tell the story of the sorority’s evolving role within the broader community and demonstrate a longstanding commitment to preserving Black history and culture.
Although the chapter may no longer fully operate within the Mary Brandon Yancey House, many of its members remain active in neighborhood revitalization, educational funding, and civic programs.
Sisters who once walked these halls continue to connect through reunions, virtual meetups, and collaborative projects that support the house’s restoration and museum initiatives.
Younger members are encouraged to learn about the property’s storied history, ensuring the legacy of Mary Brandon Yancey and the sorority’s connection to the house carry on.
Check out our News and Events page for details on sorority-led service projects in the community.
Contributions to the Mary Brandon Yancey House Virtual Museum help preserve the legacy of both the house and the sorority’s impact on African American history.
If you’re a sorority alumna, consider submitting photos or stories from your time at the Mary Brandon Yancey House to be featured in our Gallery.
By learning more about the sorority’s presence within the Mary Brandon Yancey House, we honor the power of sisterhood, education, and collective action. Together, we keep the memory of past generations alive while encouraging new voices to join in shaping the future. We invite you to explore how this bond between the house and sorority sisters has forged an enduring legacy—one that inspires us all to reach higher, serve others, and remain united in the pursuit of knowledge and empowerment.
