History

The word "Ephebian" comes from the Greek word "ephebe" (epi-, at, upon; hebe-,early manhood). In ancient Athens (335 B.C.), an ephebe was a young citizen undergoing physical and military training. In order to be admitted to citizenship, every legitimate son of pure Athenian parentage who had reached the age of eighteen had to be enrolled in the Ephebic college and undergo its two year course of rigorous training in the in military and civic duties and activities.

At the end of the first year the Ephebians gave a display of their skill in military tactics and drills before the citizens of Athens in the state theatre. At the close of this display there was presented to each Ephebian a spear and a shield. These state-given arms were regarded as sacred and to throw them away in battle flight was almost an act of sacrilege. After receiving the arms, the Ephebians took their oath of allegiance.

The Ephebian Society of Los Angeles was founded in 1918 by Dr. Albert Shields. In origin, spirit, and aims, it closely approaches the Ephebians of ancient Athens. It attempts to bind its members into an active civic betterment association pledged to conduct a program of civic education for its members and others. Membership in the Ephebian Society constitutes a distinct honor and members are recognized and regarded as the hope and pride of Los Angeles.

In 1994, Ephebian President Torres established a web presence which gave its members notoriety and recognition verifiable by any university or college.  The top students graduating from High Schools based in Los Angeles are among the highest achievers in the U.S.