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Wren Society

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Wren Society
FoundedOctober 20, 1832; 191 years ago (1832-10-20)–1865; 19xx ?
College of William and Mary
TypeSecret society
AffiliationIndependent
StatusActive
EmphasisPhilanthropy and leadership
ScopeLocal
MottoVeritas e Aequitas (Truth from Equity)
Chapters1
FounderJohn Hadley
HeadquartersWilliamsburg, Virginia
United States

The Wren Society is an American collegiate secret society on the campus of the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.[1] It was established in 1832.[1]

History

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The Wren Society was founded on October 20, 1832, at the College of William & Mary to honor the two hundredth birthday of Sir Christopher Wren.[1][2] It quickly grew in prominence.[2] The society, like many other traditions of the Royal College, fell victim to the American Civil War. Restored in the 20th century by a number of students, the Wren Society has continued to assist the college.

Traditions

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The society is thought to meet late at night on the grounds of the original college.[3] Its motto is "Veritas e Aequitas" or "Trust from Equity", and is featured on its crest, along with the founding date of 1832.

Membership

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The Wren Society invites or 'taps' members based on their academics, service, and leadership within the college community.[3][1] Membership in the society is steeped in secrecy but is rumored to consist of a select number of upperclassmen leaders from all walks of campus life.[3] Member decide whether to reveal their connection to the Wren Society at graduation or upon their death.

References

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  1. ^ a b c d "Wren Society". Special Collections Knowledgebase. College of William and Mary. September 9, 2019. Retrieved August 16, 2023.
  2. ^ a b Witherill, George. “A sermon delivered at the installation of the Mountain Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the town of Staunton, Virginia, September 23, A.L. 5819,” (Greenfield: Printed by Denio & Phelps, 1819), 12 (P. 4-7).
  3. ^ a b c "Yudu - TWAMPtannica2010 - Page 39". twamptannica.wm.edu:80. Archived from the original on April 15, 2012. Retrieved January 15, 2022.