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Skull and Bones at Yale University
Founded in 1832, Skull and Bones at Yale is probably the most infamous secret society in the U.S. Its members—nicknamed “Bonesmen”—have included presidents, senators, and Supreme Court justices. The society famously selects just 15 seniors each year, holding elaborate and mysterious initiation rituals in their windowless “Tomb.” Skull and Bones has often been accused of wielding outsized influence on campus politics and even the direction of the entire university. According to a 2022 Yale Daily News survey, over half the student body still believes the society influences campus decisions. The group’s secrecy and the high-profile careers of its alumni have fueled endless speculation. Even today, students whisper about strange campus traditions and unspoken rules tied to the Bonesmen’s legacy.
Porcellian Club at Harvard University
The Porcellian Club, established in 1791, is older than most U.S. colleges. Known for its pig mascot and its exclusive clubhouse on Harvard Square, it has counted presidents like Theodore Roosevelt among its members. The club’s influence on Harvard’s culture is controversial; it has been criticized for fostering elitism and resisting university reforms, especially those related to gender inclusion. Reports in The Harvard Crimson show that, despite recent pressure, the Porcellian remains all-male. The club’s traditions, from secret dinners to coded language, have been woven into Harvard’s history for over two centuries. It’s a symbol of the old guard, and debates about its legacy continue to this day.
Scroll and Key at Yale University
Yale’s Scroll and Key was founded in 1842 as an alternative to Skull and Bones, and it’s almost as mysterious. Its imposing stone building looms over campus, and its membership includes leaders in business, the arts, and government. A 2023 feature by the Yale Alumni Magazine highlighted how Scroll and Key has supported major campus projects, including scholarships and art installations. While the society is less talked about than Skull and Bones, it’s no less influential. Scroll and Key is rumored to have its own set of rituals and a tradition of keeping close ties with alumni, which helps members throughout their careers.
Wolf’s Head Society at Yale University
Wolf’s Head was established in 1883 as a breakaway group for those who felt excluded by existing societies. Its distinctive brick building and wolf imagery make it stand out. The society has evolved, becoming co-ed in the 1990s, which some see as a reflection of changing campus values. According to the Yale Herald, Wolf’s Head prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive membership. It’s known for hosting thought-provoking debates and cultural events, making it a hub for ambitious students who don’t fit the traditional mold. Alumni say the society’s network is powerful but less rigid than its rivals.
Seven Society at the University of Virginia
The Seven Society is so secretive that members’ identities are only revealed upon their death. Formed in 1905, the society is legendary for its anonymous philanthropy—donating millions to scholarship funds, campus improvements, and emergency aid. According to UVA’s alumni office, the Sevens have played a quiet but crucial role in shaping the university’s culture of service. Their signature—an encircled “7”—is found painted on campus buildings, a reminder of their hidden hand. Students speculate endlessly about who the members are, often attributing campus surprises and acts of generosity to the mysterious group.
Order of Gimghoul at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Order of Gimghoul was founded in 1889 and is famous for its medieval-themed rituals and the imposing Gimghoul Castle. The society’s stated mission is to promote chivalry and honor, but stories of secret meetings and torch-lit ceremonies swirl around campus. A 2024 student documentary revealed how Gimghoul has played a role in preserving campus traditions and supporting historic preservation. The society rarely admits new members, making it one of the most exclusive groups at UNC. Alumni say membership opens doors in business and politics across the state.
Quill and Dagger at Cornell University
Quill and Dagger, formed in 1893, has a granite tower on Cornell’s campus and an alumni list packed with influential figures, from U.S. senators to Nobel laureates. The society is known for selecting students with demonstrated leadership and service, rather than just academic success. In 2023, Cornell’s student newspaper reported that Quill and Dagger was instrumental in founding several campus organizations and providing scholarships. Its ceremonies are shrouded in secrecy, but its impact is visible in the way it shapes student government and campus policy.
The Machine at the University of Alabama
The Machine isn’t a traditional secret society—it’s a coalition of fraternities and sororities that has influenced campus politics for nearly a century. Investigations by the Alabama Media Group in 2024 confirmed that The Machine has played a role in dozens of student elections, sometimes using intimidation and secret deals. Critics argue that it perpetuates racial and class divisions on campus, while supporters say it helps coordinate Greek life and campus events. The Machine’s power has sparked protests and national headlines, showing how a shadowy organization can still shape a modern university.
Society of the Cincinnati at Princeton University
Princeton’s Society of the Cincinnati traces its roots back to the Revolutionary War, with the university’s chapter founded by alumni in the early 1800s. The society’s focus is on promoting patriotism and public service. In recent years, it has funded lectures, historical research, and scholarships for students pursuing government careers. A 2024 Princeton Review piece argued that, while less secretive than others, the group’s influence is felt through its alumni network and its connections to Washington, D.C. For students interested in politics, membership is a coveted prize.
Phi Beta Kappa at the College of William & Mary
Known as America’s oldest academic honor society, Phi Beta Kappa was founded in 1776 at William & Mary. While not strictly “secret” today, its original meetings were hidden from university officials. Its members have included 17 U.S. presidents and countless Nobel Prize winners. The society’s mission is to recognize excellence in the liberal arts and sciences, and it has shaped academic standards across U.S. universities. According to a 2023 Pew Research Center study, Phi Beta Kappa membership still correlates with higher postgraduate success rates and civic engagement.
Mortar Board at Ohio State University
Mortar Board, established in 1918, is a national honor society for college seniors. It started as a women’s group but became co-ed in the 1970s, reflecting broader changes in American education. The society selects members based on scholarship, leadership, and service. At Ohio State, Mortar Board has been credited with supporting literacy programs and campus accessibility initiatives. In a 2024 article, the student newspaper reported that Mortar Board alumni often go on to leadership roles in education and government. The group’s influence is less about secrecy and more about shaping campus culture from behind the scenes.
Trident Society at Duke University
The Trident Society, founded in the early 20th century, is Duke’s answer to the Ivy League’s exclusive clubs. Members are chosen for their contributions to campus life and their potential for future leadership. The society is known for its white rose emblem and for hosting invitation-only events for campus movers and shakers. According to a 2023 Duke Chronicle feature, the Trident has helped launch student organizations and funded scholarships for underprivileged students. Alumni say the society’s network extends into law, medicine, and business.
The Sphinx at Dartmouth College
Dartmouth’s Sphinx society was established in 1885 and is famous for its Egyptian-themed rituals and its secretive, windowless house. The group selects a small number of juniors each year, and membership is a closely guarded secret. The Sphinx has long been rumored to pull strings in student government and athletics, according to a 2022 student poll. The society is also known for its pranks and elaborate parties, which are the stuff of campus legend. Despite criticism for exclusivity, many students aspire to be “tapped” by the Sphinx.
Cadaver Society at Washington and Lee University
The Cadaver Society is one of the most enigmatic groups on any American campus. Known for their midnight graffiti and anonymous gifts to the university, Cadaver members keep their identities hidden even after graduation. A 2023 alumni magazine report revealed that the society has provided emergency scholarships and quietly funded campus improvements. Their motto, “For the Good of All,” reflects a philosophy of secret service. The Cadavers are both feared and admired, and their blue-hooded costumes are a familiar sight during graduation.
Iron Arrow Honor Society at the University of Miami
Iron Arrow, founded in 1926, is the highest honor attainable at the University of Miami. The society’s roots are in the Seminole Tribe, and it has faced controversy over cultural appropriation but worked in recent years to build authentic partnerships with Native communities. Iron Arrow’s public ceremonies, with members dressed in Seminole clothing, are major campus events. The society recognizes students, faculty, and alumni for leadership and service, and its alumni include university presidents and leading scientists. Recent university reports show that Iron Arrow has expanded its scholarship and mentorship programs, shaping the university’s culture in a more inclusive direction.
Christian Wiedeck, all the way from Germany, loves music festivals, especially in the USA. His articles bring the excitement of these events to readers worldwide.
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