Kingston, Ontario, has long been a city steeped in history, with a past filled with military tradition, academia, and old-world fraternal organizations. While the idea of "secret societies" often conjures up images of clandestine meetings, cryptic handshakes, and mysterious rituals, many of these organizations operate in plain sight while maintaining elements of secrecy. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable fraternal and semi-secret organizations in Kingston.
1. Freemasons: The Oldest Fraternal Order
One of the most well-known secretive organizations in Kingston is Freemasonry. The Prince of Wales Lodge No. 146, established in the 1800s, remains active today. Freemasonry is a global fraternal order that emphasizes moral development, brotherhood, and philanthropy. While the group does significant charitable work, such as supporting children’s hospitals and education, its inner workings, rituals, and initiation ceremonies remain private. Masonic lodges in Kingston often meet in historic buildings that add to their mystique.
2. The Odd Fellows & Rebekahs: A Lesser-Known Fraternal Order
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) is another fraternal organization that has a presence in Kingston. Founded on principles of friendship, love, and truth, the Odd Fellows focus on charitable work and community service. Their female counterpart, the Rebekahs, also operates locally. Although the IOOF isn’t as widely discussed as Freemasonry, its symbols and initiation ceremonies add an air of exclusivity.
3. The Shriners: A Brotherhood with a Charitable Mission
The Kingston District Shrine Club is part of the well-known Shriners International, a subgroup of Freemasonry famous for its philanthropy, particularly its work with children’s hospitals. While Shriners are often seen wearing their distinctive red fezzes at parades and charity events, their internal meetings and traditions remain exclusive to members.
4. The Knights of Columbus: A Catholic Fraternal Order
The Knights of Columbus is a global Catholic fraternal organization with a strong presence in Kingston. While its primary mission is charity and community service, members must undergo initiation ceremonies, and meetings are private. The Knights support numerous charitable causes, including disaster relief, education, and food banks.
5. Queen’s University and Student Secret Societies
Kingston is home to Queen’s University, which has its own share of secretive student organizations. Among them:
The Tricolour Society – An honor society that recognizes students for significant contributions to Queen’s.
Engineering "Secret" Societies – Various exclusive groups exist within the engineering faculty, including the Brute Force Committee, which is responsible for upholding engineering traditions and hosting initiation rituals.
The Levana Gender Advocacy Centre – While not traditionally secretive, this feminist group has deep-rooted traditions that date back to radical advocacy efforts.
6. Military and Intelligence Groups
Kingston is home to CFB Kingston and the Royal Military College (RMC), making it a hub for military and intelligence-related activities. While not “secret societies” in the traditional sense, there are classified intelligence networks, military old-boys’ clubs, and high-security operations happening behind closed doors.
Conclusion: The Allure of Secrecy
Whether it’s Freemasonry, student honor societies, or military organizations, Kingston has no shortage of groups that maintain an element of secrecy. While many of these organizations are focused on community service and networking, their exclusive memberships, rituals, and symbols keep them shrouded in intrigue.
So, are there true "secret societies" lurking in Kingston? That’s for you to decide. Just be sure to watch for subtle handshakes and cryptic symbols hidden in plain sight.
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