| Wren Society | |
| Coat Of Arms: | WrenSocietyLogo.jpg |
| Founded: | –1865; 19xx ? |
| Birthplace: | College of William and Mary |
| Type: | Secret society |
| Status: | Active |
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| Scope: | Local |
| Emphasis: | Philanthropy and leadership |
| Motto: | Latin: Veritas e Aequitas (Truth from Equity) |
| Chapters: | 1 |
| Free Label: | Founder |
| Free: | John Hadley |
| City: | Williamsburg |
| State: | Virginia |
| Country: | 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.
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. 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.
The society is thought to meet late at night on the grounds of the original college.[3] Its motto is "Latin: Veritas e Aequitas" or "Trust from Equity", and is featured on its crest, along with the founding date of 1832.
The Wren Society invites or 'taps' members based on their academics, service, and leadership within the college community. 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. Member decide whether to reveal their connection to the Wren Society at graduation or upon their death.