More than 60 years ago, a group of brothers at the Missouri School of Mines (now Missouri S&T) unknowingly started what would become one of the most unique traditions in Greek life. Known as the SigEp Rock Drag, the event began as a playful prank and has since grown into an enduring symbol of Fraternity unity, camaraderie and pride.

It all started in 1962. As Roland “Rookie” Albrecht, Missouri S&T ’70 recalls: “We wanted to do something different, something to impress the upperclassmen. Someone suggested we ‘borrow’ one of the quarried rocks from the Mining Engineering building and place it on our lawn. So, like good engineers, we came up with a plan.” After a late-night mission involving ropes, chains and a pickup truck, the brothers successfully dragged the massive rock back to the SigEp house, where it became a conversation piece and source of pride.

Over the years, the tradition evolved. By the end of the 1970s, the rock began traveling to other fraternity lawns. “In one instance, the Phi Kaps convinced a passing front-end loader operator to move the rock to their house!” recalled Matt Mabrey ’83. By the 1980s, the Rock Drag had become a larger event, with brothers teaming up with other fraternities for the journey. “There were occasions where the rock ended up at multiple fraternity houses, with water balloons and good-natured chaos along the way,” said Gene Kertz ’89.

Today, the SigEp Rock Drag is a centerpiece of homecoming week, involving over 300 participants and the broader community. Xavier Naeger ’11 described the modern event: “It starts with 30-40 SigEps pulling the 1.5-ton rock, with stops at other fraternity houses like Phi Kap, Pike, TKE and SigNu. Each stop adds more participants, turning it into a parade of fun and camaraderie through the streets of Rolla.” Police escorts now ensure safety while maintaining the event’s celebratory spirit.

Although the original rock has been replaced due to wear, the tradition remains vibrant. As Derek Stainbach ’18 notes, “It’s not just about the pull — it’s about connecting with brothers, celebrating our history and showing what SigEp stands for.”

The SigEp Rock Drag continues to be a testament to the Fraternity’s legacy of leadership, unity, and fun. If you’re near Rolla during homecoming, don’t miss the chance to witness — or join — this remarkable tradition. As brothers say, “SigEps are for life, and our relationships are as solid as a rock!”

This article is shared from the Missouri Gamma newsletter in the Alumni Communications Program.