Yale’s Hidden World: How Many Secret Societies Exist?

When you think about Yale University, you might know it for its Ivy League status and exceptional music and drama programs, but beneath the surface, there’s a hidden world that few students ever see—a world of secret societies. These secretive groups are as integral to Yale’s culture as its academic excellence. So, how many secret societies are there at Yale, and what do they do?

There are over 55 Yale secret societies as of 2024. Several of these groups have thrived within the Yale University campus life for nearly two centuries, since the prestigious university’s establishment in 1701. This blog aims to shed some light on the oldest and most well-known secret societies that enrich life on campus. This article will also give you tips on how to join a secret society and call yourself one of their lucky members.

• Ancient Eight Consortium
• How Yale’s Secret Societies Shape Its Academic Scene
• The Move to Gender-Inclusive Secret Societies
• Benefits of Joining a Secret Society
• The Selection Process: How to Join a Secret Society
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

Ancient Eight Consortium

The Ancient Eight Consortium are some of the oldest and most well-known Yale secret societies. They make up an important part of the university’s culture, giving off prestige due to their exclusivity. While it is often easy to identify their meeting places on campus because of their mysterious but beautiful buildings, one has to dig deeper to get to know each society better. 

The Yale secret societies within the Ancient Eight Consortium are united by their exclusivity, yet each is distinguished by its own unique traditions, values, and beliefs. Each one has their own distinct identity that sets them apart from one another.

Here are the groups that are part of the Ancient Eight Consortium: 

Berzelius

Berzelius is a secret society established in 1848 and named after Swedish scientist Jöns Jakob Berzeliu, one of the founding fathers of modern chemistry. It is considered one of the oldest secret societies. This group was first created under the Sheffield Scientific School, the home of science and engineering programs, which merged with Yale University in 1933. 

Berzelius is known for focusing on the intellect and personal growth. According to its website, the secret society seeks to “promote an open, honest exchange of experiences, passions, and opinions, and in the process of getting to know other people, to find insights into ourselves.” 

The Berzelius Society Tomb is hard to miss with its imposing structure along Trumbull Street on campus. It was first built in 1910 and is now owned by the Colony Foundation, previously called the Berzelius Trust Association. This tomb of one of Yale’s secret societies is described as a “neoclassical-style society hall” that is “architecturally as well as physically distanced from its urban landscape.”

Book and Snake

Founded in 1863, Book and Snake was originally known as Sigma Delta Chi. Like Berzelius, it started as part of the Sheffield Scientific School. The name change was made to distinguish itself from the growing fraternity system at the time. 

Unlike some other Yale secret societies, Book and Snake quickly expanded beyond the sciences, seeking members from diverse backgrounds. They actively recruited student-athletes, aspiring politicians, and even campus journalists, making it one of the first societies to branch out in this way.

Elihu

Elihu stands out from other Yale secret societies because it was originally founded in 1903 not to be secretive but to welcome students who hadn’t been invited to join the more traditional secret groups. 

Named after one of Yale’s biggest donors, Elihu Yale, the society focuses on educational and social programs. Elihu’s mission is to foster a “stronger affection for Yale” by offering its members a “broader view” of undergraduate life, “deeper and more helpful friendship,” and encouraging “earnest work and good fellowship.” True to its inclusive spirit, Elihu even allows rising juniors to join, a rare practice among Yale’s secret societies.

Unlike many secret societies that operate in mysterious, windowless buildings, Elihu meets in a three-story house on Elm Street. While their gatherings are more transparent, don’t expect to peek inside—the house’s windows are still covered with blinds!

Mace and Chain

Mace and Chain is one of the newer Yale secret societies, founded in 1956 by Thornton Marshall. His motivation was simple: he hadn’t been recruited by any of the other secret societies and wanted to create a more inclusive, modern group. 

Marshall, who graduated in 1957, admitted to the Yale Alumni Magazine that he was “annoyed, angered, and insulted—twice” and wanted “to have his day in the sun.” He succeeded, as Mace and Chain quickly gained a reputation for giving its members the freedom to set their own rules. Each recruited batch determines how the society will be run, with discussions often revolving around the concept of chivalry and contributions to campus life.

Mace and Chain is one of Yale’s “landed” societies, meaning it owns the property where it holds meetings. Their “tomb” is a house on Trumbull Street in Downtown New Haven, adding to the society’s distinctive character.

Scroll and Key

Scroll and Key, founded in 1841 by scientist John Addison Porter, is one of Yale’s oldest and most prestigious secret societies. It was created in response to the Skull and Bones, though it has since developed its own traditions and values. Unlike other societies, Scroll and Key places a strong emphasis on “the study of literature and taste.”

However, Scroll and Key didn’t have an easy start. The society initially struggled to recruit members, but this eventually changed. Today, Scroll and Key is known for its members from diverse fields like U.S. Secretary of Commerce Frederick B. Dent, and Dateline NBC anchor Stone Phillips.

The society’s “tomb,” located on College Street, is an imposing neoclassical building designed in 1869 by Richard Morris Hunt, a co-founder of the American Institute of Architects. Hunt’s other works include the base of the Statue of Liberty and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, both in New York.

Scroll and Key’s emblem represents access to exclusive knowledge, learning, and wisdom. The key and scroll illustrate the society’s commitment to intellectual advancement while preserving its secretive nature.

Skull and Bones

Skull and Bones is arguably the most famous—and controversial—Yale secret society, often associated with exclusivity and elitism. Founded in 1832 by William Huntington Russell and Alphonso Taft, the society was inspired by Russell’s travels in Germany. Fun fact: Taft was the father of future U.S. President William Howard Taft, who also became a member.

In its early years, Skull and Bones was exclusively for white males from elite backgrounds. It wasn’t until 1992 that the society began admitting women and members from diverse backgrounds, reflecting a broader shift toward inclusivity.

Skull and Bones’ headquarters is a windowless brownstone on High Street at the corner of Chapel in New Haven. The building is hard to miss, but what you see now is just a fraction of what it once was. Over the years, the Skull and Bones tomb has expanded to accommodate society’s needs, including more space for its mysterious initiation rites.

The Tafts weren’t the only father-son duo to join Skull and Bones. The society’s alumni also include U.S. Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

Skull and Bones is easily recognized by its skull and crossbones emblem, symbolizing mystery and exclusivity. The skull reflects the society’s focus on maintaining its elite reputation.

St. Elmo

St. Elmo was founded in 1889 as part of the Omicron Chapter of the Delta Phi fraternity and was initially under the Sheffield Scientific School. It became independent in 1925 and has since taken on a more non-profit role, providing educational opportunities to its members.

St. Elmo only became a secret society in 1965. According to its website, St. Elmo aims to inspire “new meaning to the students’ Yale education” through its methods.

The society’s headquarters is a historic building on Lynwood Place within the campus. While it may not be as imposing as other secret societies’ tombs, St. Elmo’s headquarters is still home to some of Yale’s brightest minds.

Wolf’s Head

Wolf’s Head was founded in 1883 to challenge the dominance of older groups like Skull and Bones and Scroll and Key. The society aimed to introduce a fresh perspective to Yale’s social scene. However, its influence has waned over the years as students’ interest in secret societies has declined.

Wolf’s Head was the first Yale secret society to build its tomb outside the campus. In 1884, they constructed an impressive brownstone on Prospect Street, marking their break from the tradition of staying within campus limits. The building was used until 1924, and the society now has its permanent tomb on York Street.

The Wolf’s Head symbol is powerful and straightforward, representing strength, loyalty, and unity among members. The wolf pack mentality underscores the close-knit nature of this secret society.

How Yale’s Secret Societies Shape Its Academic Scene

Yale’s secret societies definitely make their mark on the school’s academic vibe. They bring together a mix of different perspectives, sparking conversations that push intellectual boundaries. Some of Yale’s coolest ideas and innovations have come from the secretive meetings within these groups.

The members often go on to be big names in their fields, using the skills and connections they picked up during their time in these exclusive circles. You can spot the influence of these societies across various areas, from politics and law to business and the arts.

Examples of these are Former United States Ambassador to France Charles Rivkin who is part of Book and Snake and hedge fund magnate Tom Steyer of Wolf’s Head. 

But it’s not all positive. These societies also reinforce a sense of exclusivity, which stirs up debates about their role at Yale. Critics point out that the secrecy can create divides among students, keeping opportunities out of reach for those not in these elite groups. They wonder if this kind of exclusivity really fits with Yale’s goals of equality and meritocracy.

Even with the controversy, secret societies are a big part of Yale’s academic world. They spark curiosity, build strong connections, and play a role in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

The Move to Gender-Inclusive Secret Societies

Yale’s secret societies have come a long way in terms of gender inclusivity. In the past, these societies exclusively recruited males, often focusing on wealthy white men from elite backgrounds. If you wanted to join a secret society back then, you had to be a rich white man.

Fortunately, times have changed. Many societies, like Book and Snake and Skull and Bones, have started accepting women as members. This shift toward diversity reflects broader changes at Yale University. 

Yale’s undergrad students are pretty evenly split by gender, with a slight lean towards male students—52% male and 48% female, creating a more inclusive environment across campus. The university also has a mix of different races and ethnicities which brings a lot of international perspectives, making it a culturally rich place to learn. 

This diversity not only enhances the overall educational experience but also presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to inclusivity and representation in their secret societies. The diverse student body encourages global understanding, social awareness, and sensitivity to various cultural backgrounds. 

Benefits of Joining a Secret Society

Yale’s secret societies are a significant part of the university’s history. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to join one, you’ll be rubbing elbows with future leaders and influential figures. For many students, joining a secret society offers a unique experience that can profoundly impact their Yale University campus life and extend beyond academics.

These societies provide a private retreat from the hustle and bustle of campus life. Members can share ideas, discuss personal experiences, and build close friendships. Each society has its own focus, whether it’s intellectual growth or community service, and members meet regularly to talk about current events and personal stories. The bonds formed here often last long after graduation.

Joining a secret society adds an extra dimension to your Yale experience, offering a glimpse into a hidden world of traditions and deep connections. Being chosen to join is an honor, signifying respect from your peers.

The Selection Process: How to Join a Secret Society

So, how do you join a secret society at Yale? The first thing to know is that membership is by invitation only. The process typically begins during your junior year, and you’ll need to have a strong social presence and academic success to be considered.

Each year, Yale secret societies recruit around 15 new members, so with all six societies combined, that’s just 90 members—less than 10% of the entire senior class. Every spring, on what’s known as “tap day,” each society selects 15 juniors to join and take over the following year. The names of the new members get published in the Yale Daily News, and back in the day, they even made it into the New York Times.

The selection process is shrouded in mystery, adding to the allure of these groups. But as many alumni will tell you, the benefits are worth it. Once you’re a member, you’ll have access to a powerful network that could help you in your future career, whether in politics, business, or another field.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can anyone join a Yale secret society?

No, membership in Yale’s secret societies is by invitation only. The selection process, known as “tapping,” typically occurs during a student’s junior year. Potential members are chosen based on various criteria, including leadership qualities, academic achievements, and social influence.

2. What do Yale secret societies do?

The activities of Yale’s secret societies are largely kept confidential, but they often involve weekly meetings, rituals, and discussions. Members form close-knit groups, and the societies often engage in philanthropic activities, sponsor events, and contribute to campus culture.

3. Are Yale secret societies still relevant today?

Yes, Yale’s secret societies remain a significant part of campus life. While some view them as symbols of elitism, others see them as important traditions that offer valuable networking opportunities and foster strong bonds among members.

4. Are women allowed to join Yale secret societies?

Yes, many of Yale’s secret societies now admit women, although this wasn’t always the case. The shift toward greater inclusivity began in the late 20th century, and today, most societies are co-ed, reflecting the diversity of the Yale student body.

Takeaways

• Yale’s secret societies, including over 55 groups as of 2024, are deeply embedded in the university’s culture, some dating back nearly two centuries. They offer a prestigious and exclusive experience, shaping both academic and social life on campus.
• Membership in these societies is highly selective, with each group inviting only 15 juniors annually, making up less than 10% of the senior class. The selection process, known as “tap day,” is a significant event, with names historically published in the Yale Daily News and sometimes even the New York Times.
• These societies foster intellectual exploration and meaningful connections, with members often becoming influential leaders in various fields. However, their exclusivity has sparked debates about their role in promoting equality and meritocracy at Yale.
• Once limited to elite white males, many Yale secret societies have evolved to embrace gender inclusivity, reflecting broader changes at the university. Today, women make up at least 50% of the undergraduate population, and most societies are co-ed, welcoming women and queers, diverse members who align with their values.
• Thinking about Yale and hoping to get tapped into one of those secret societies? AdmissionSight has got your back with personalized guidance that highlights your strengths and goals, making sure your application really shines.