Secret Clubs At Yale

The Ivy League university, Yale, has a long history of secret clubs and societies that have been shrouded in mystery and intrigue. These organizations, often referred to as "secret societies," have been a part of Yale's campus life for over two centuries, with some of the most well-known including Skull and Bones, Scroll and Key, and Berzelius. While the activities and membership of these clubs are not publicly disclosed, they are known to be highly selective and exclusive, with membership often being reserved for Yale's most elite and influential students.

History of Secret Clubs at Yale

The first secret society at Yale, the Brothers in Unity, was founded in 1768, and was followed by the establishment of the Linonian Society in 1753 and the Croonian Society in 1783. However, it was the founding of Skull and Bones in 1832 that marked the beginning of the modern era of secret societies at Yale. Skull and Bones, also known as the Order of the File and Claw, is one of the most well-known and infamous secret societies in the world, with a membership that has included three U.S. presidents: William Howard Taft, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush. Other notable members include William F. Buckley Jr., John Kerry, and Stephen Schwarzman, the founder of the Blackstone Group.

Skull and Bones

Skull and Bones is known for its mysterious and intimidating symbol, which features a skull and crossbones, as well as its infamous “tomb,” a windowless building on Yale’s campus that serves as the society’s headquarters. The society’s activities and membership are not publicly disclosed, but it is believed to be involved in a range of activities, including philanthropy, politics, and business. Members of Skull and Bones are known to be highly influential and well-connected, with many going on to hold positions of power in government, finance, and industry.

Other Secret Societies at Yale

In addition to Skull and Bones, there are several other secret societies at Yale, including Scroll and Key, Berzelius, and Mace and Chain. Scroll and Key, founded in 1842, is known for its literary and intellectual pursuits, and has included members such as William F. Buckley Jr. and John Kerry. Berzelius, founded in 1848, is one of the oldest and most prestigious secret societies at Yale, and has included members such as Andrew Mellon and John Jacob Astor IV. Mace and Chain, founded in 1956, is one of the youngest secret societies at Yale, and is known for its focus on community service and philanthropy.

Membership and Selection

Membership in Yale’s secret societies is highly selective and competitive, with only a small number of students being “tapped” for membership each year. The selection process is not publicly disclosed, but it is believed to be based on a range of factors, including academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character. Once selected, members are expected to maintain the secrecy and confidentiality of the society, and to participate in its activities and events.

The secret societies at Yale have been the subject of much controversy and criticism over the years, with some arguing that they are elitist and exclusionary, and that they perpetuate a culture of privilege and entitlement. However, others argue that they provide a valuable networking opportunity and a chance for students to develop important skills and connections that can benefit them throughout their lives.