The Secret Cult of the Order

The Secret Cult of the Order by Antony C. Sutton investigates the Yale secret society known as The Order, also known as Skull and Bones, examining its origins, organization, membership, secrecy, rituals, symbolism, and alleged connections with other secret and influential organizations. Sutton begins by arguing that secret political organizations can threaten constitutional government and social institutions, then traces The Order from its founding at Yale in 1832 and examines its recruitment system, annual “clubs,” private membership catalogues, and network of prominent alumni and families. He devotes particular attention to the initiation rituals and the symbolism of skulls, bones, coffins, skeletons, and other ceremonial objects, arguing that these features reveal what he calls the organization’s “satanic aspects.” Sutton also explores the question of whether The Order has historical connections with the Bavarian Illuminati, comparing their secrecy, organizational structures, initiation practices, and methods of mutual assistance. The book concludes with reproductions of rare historical materials concerning Skull and Bones, including accounts of the 1876 break-in at the society’s Temple, descriptions of the building and its interior, historical photographs, and contemporary criticisms of the organization.