New Haven, Connecticut's Secret Society: 'Skull & Bones"

When you think of secret societies, what images come to mind? Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman in Eyes Wide Shut? Do you see robes, masks, a ritual animal sacrifice? Sure, those are the sensationalized pop culture references that play on a loop when the topic arises.

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But what if I told you there was one secret society whose lore exceeds the drama of pop fiction? What if I told you that secret society was based right here in Connecticut?

Skull and Bones, founded in 1832 at Yale University in New Haven, is arguably the most famous and secretive society in the United States. Known by nicknames like “The Brotherhood of Death” or simply “Bones,” this exclusive club has long been surrounded by whispers of occult rituals, shadowy political power, and a membership roster that reads like a who's who of American leadership.

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But beyond the smoke and mirrors, what really happens behind the closed doors of their ominous headquarters, known simply as the “Tomb”? And how much of the conspiracy theories are grounded in fact? Let’s dive deep into the world of Skull and Bones and uncover the story—secrets and all.

The Skull and Bones Society: Connecticut’s Ultimate Conspiracy Theory

Skull and Bones, founded in 1832 at Yale University in New Haven, is arguably the most famous and secretive senior society in the United States. Known by nicknames like “The Brotherhood of Death” this exclusive club has long been surrounded by whispers of occult rituals, shadowy political power, and a membership roster that reads like a who's who of American leadership. Let’s dive deep into the world of Skull and Bones and uncover the story—secrets and all.

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

Here Are Some Additional Intriguing Facts About Skull and Bones

There was a Skull and Bones movie
In 2000, a film called The Skulls hit theaters, loosely based on the society. It starred Joshua Jackson and Paul Walker and explored the idea of an elite secret society grooming future leaders. While it didn't win over critics, it became a cult favorite among conspiracy fans and still draws attention whenever Skull and Bones makes headlines. Not a perfect movie but I love it!

It’s not the only secret society at Yale.
While Skull and Bones gets the spotlight, it’s just one of several elite societies at Yale. Others include Scroll and Key, Book and Snake, Berzelius, and Wolf’s Head — all with their own cryptic traditions and elite membership lists.

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Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

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