This Secret Society Is One Of Connecticut's Best Kept Secrets

There’s a secret society in Connecticut that calls Yale University its home. You’ve probably heard it referred to on a tv show, in a movie, or maybe even know of one of its elite members. But you probably know very little about it. That’s because it’s one of the best kept secrets in the country. So we’re going to take a closer look at what this place is all about.

BoolaBoola2/Wikimedia

It was founded in 1832, making the oldest society at Yale. Born from disputing debate clubs, it quickly gained attention on campus for its seclusion from outsiders. Well that and the fact that its location is nicknamed the Tomb and its members are called "Bonesmen."

Formulax/Wikimedia

Some folks think it means "founded in '32, 2nd corps" in reference to the society of the same name in Germany. But others think it refers to the death of Demosthenes, a famous Greek statesman. This would make sense since members are assigned literature and history based nicknames. For instance, George H. W. Bush was referred to as "Magog."

Advertisement

Related Stories

The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through Connecticut That Runs Along The Long Island Sound

The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb In Connecticut That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

It's An Epic New England Adventure On This Lighthouse Cruise Tour In Connecticut

Yale University Library

The society takes a photo each year, always with the same set up and always with somber expressions. It's why some people think that they're up to no good. But who can blame them?The society has a history of crooking, which is stealing keepsakes from other Yale societies or from campus buildings, and have been accused of possessing the stolen skulls of Martin Van Buren and Pancho Villa.

Advertisement

m01229/Flickr

Nobody knows! New members are picked each year by literally getting tapped on the shoulder by current members. Everything after that is a complete mystery. When asked what it meant to be a Bonesman, former Presidential candidate John Kerry said, "Not much, because it's a secret." So maybe I'm paranoid, but this all seems a little strange!

To this day, no one seems to know what the Tomb even looks like on the inside! If maintenance is required, workers are escorted in and out to make sure they don’t wander around or take pictures. The closest anyone has come is exploring some of the old architecture that surrounds the building or seeing the courtyard, which we have video of for you right here! In terms of getting inside, you’ll have to make some pretty big connections to pull that off!

Wasn’t that awesome! If this secret society has you frustrated, here are some historical homes you can actually visit! Make sure to share photos of your trip with us on Instagram @onlyinconnecticut to have them featured!