Susquehanna University - 1858 to 1894

The preamble and begining articles of the Clio Society Constitution.

The Clionian Literary Society held weekly meetings where discipline was strict. The members wrote the rules of conduct for the meetings and could be fined for various actions, including being late to meetings, speaking without permission, leaning back in chairs and spitting on the floors. This society, complete with Constitution and By-Laws, could be considered a precursor to the Greek fraternities and sororities which would come later.

The Clionian Society was formed in 1865 as an all-male Society. Women were not admitted as members until September 24, 1896. Section 3 of the Constitution reflects this change in membership by stating that "He or she shall be entitled to all the privileges of an active member".

The Philosophian Literary Society was the first literary society at the Missionary Institute, formed soon after the founding of the school in 1858. It was originally named the Athlonon Society. It was re-organized into the Philosophian Society one year later in 1859. It catered primarily to the Classical Department and town students. The Philosophian Society had a Constitution and By-laws. Like the Clio Society which came later, the members wrote the rules of conduct and enforced them with fines.