Exploring Bohemian Grove's Secrets, Myths, And Conspiracy Theories

The Old Guard Are Literally Quite Old

Source: Smithsonian

After four decades of esteemed membership within the Bohemian Club, individuals ascend to the revered ranks of "The Old Guard," earning them exclusive privileges and recognition within the enclave's hallowed halls. Notable figures, including former U.S. President Herbert Hoover, attained this esteemed status, commemorated with a lavish celebration held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. Hoover, marking 40 years since his induction into the club, was honored with a symbolic display of redwood branches sourced from the Grove itself, adorning the banquet room in tribute to his legacy. In his poignant acceptance speech, Hoover likened the esteemed title of "The Old Guard" to his enduring role as a sage advisor to subsequent presidents, underscoring the significance of this venerable tradition within the history of Bohemian Grove.

Weaving Spiders Come Not Here

Fair Use

Despite the Club's motto of "Weaving Spiders Come Not Here," which ostensibly discourages the discussion of outside business matters within the confines of Bohemian Grove, the reality often veers from this idealistic decree. While formal business dealings may be ostensibly discouraged, members frequently engage in discussions of professional matters, albeit discreetly and informally. Although the official stance of the club may suggest otherwise, it's no secret that many significant political and business agreements have indeed been brokered amidst the serene groves and tranquil surroundings of Bohemian Grove.

Everything Began With The Bohemian Club In 1872

fair use

The roots of Bohemian Grove trace back to the summer of 1878, a mere six years after the founding of the Bohemian Club in 1872. Henry "Harry" Edwards, one of the club's founding members and a stage actor, announced his departure for New York City in pursuit of his career. To bid him farewell, a gathering of roughly 100 Bohemians convened in the lush Redwoods near Taylorville, present-day Samuel P. Taylor State Park, on June 29, 1878. Amidst the towering trees adorned with Japanese lanterns, the soirée unfolded with the conviviality typical of the club, characterized by abundant libations and lively camaraderie. Though Edwards was absent the following year, the event evolved into an annual encampment, cementing the tradition that endures to this day.

Bohemian Grove Has Been In Place Since 1893

Smith College

Throughout its history, Bohemian Grove's location has shifted across the scenic landscapes of Marin and Sonoma County. Initially, gatherings took place in various spots, including the majestic Muir Woods and a redwood grove near Duncans Mills along the Russian River. However, in 1893, the Bohemians secured the current location for their encampment, initially renting it before acquiring it outright from Melvin Cyrus Meeker in 1899. Meeker, having established a prosperous logging enterprise in the vicinity, transferred ownership of the land to the Club. Over the ensuing decades, club members gradually expanded their holdings, acquiring adjacent parcels until encompassing the entire basin in which Bohemian Grove now resides.
 

William Henry Irwin, writer and journalist, said of the wonder of the Grove:

You come upon it suddenly. One step and its glory is over you. There is no perspective; you cannot get far enough away from one of the trees to see it as a whole. There they stand, a world of height above you, their pinnacles hidden by their topmost fringes of branches or lost in the sky.

Camp Valets Have Their Work Cut Out For Them

pinterest

Operating under a veil of exclusivity, the Bohemian Club functions as a private sanctuary, accessible solely to its active members and their esteemed guests, often comprising politicians and distinguished figures from across the globe. The number of guests is rigorously regulated during the midsummer encampment due to the limited capacity of the facilities. The meticulous orchestration of the encampment falls upon the shoulders of camp valets, who oversee the day-to-day operations of the individual camps. Serving as akin to general managers in hospitality settings, these valets ensure the smooth functioning of the camps, akin to resorts or hotels. Female workers, limited to daylight hours and central areas near the main gate, contribute to the service staff, while male workers may reside within the Grove's confines, either within their designated camps or peripheral service areas. While high-status workers enjoy private quarters, most are accommodated in rustic bunkhouses.

Facilities

fair use

Nestled within the serene expanse of ancient redwood trees, the Bohemian Grove boasts an array of facilities spread across its 160-acre domain, housing sleeping quarters known as "camps" amidst the towering giants, numbering 118 as of 2007. These camps, often structured along familial lines, serve as pivotal hubs for cultivating high-level business and political relationships.

The Grove's Gathering Places Are Made To Accommodate Thousands Of People

pinterest

The Grove's landscape is dotted with distinctive gathering places, including the iconic Grove Stage, an amphitheater accommodating 2,000 guests, where the Grove Play unfolds during the final weekend of the midsummer encampment. The Field Circle, resembling a natural bowl, hosts the mid-encampment "Low Jinks" musical comedy and various performances, while the intimate Campfire Circle offers a rustic setting for smaller gatherings. The Museum Stage, an open-air venue, welcomes lectures and ensemble performances, while the Dining Circle accommodates up to 1,500 diners simultaneously. Perched atop a bluff overlooking the Russian River, the historic Clubhouse, designed by Bernard Maybeck, serves as a multifunctional space for dining, socializing, and entertainment. Embodying the Grove's mystique, the Owl Shrine and the tranquil Lake provide a picturesque setting for noon-time concerts and the solemn Cremation of Care ceremony, a hallmark event symbolizing the shedding of worldly concerns. Additionally, the Lake serves as the backdrop for the renowned "Lakeside Talks," featuring distinguished speakers from diverse fields engaging in informal discussions on matters ranging from public policy to entertainment.

Bohemian Grove Is A Very Secure Area

Kerry Richardson

Ensuring the privacy and security of its esteemed members, the Bohemian Grove maintains a robust security apparatus year-round. Comprising ex-military personnel, the security team employs state-of-the-art equipment such as thermal/night vision cameras, motion detectors, and vibration sensing alarm systems to safeguard the premises. Security measures are notably intensified during member encampments, with additional support enlisted from local law enforcement agencies including the Sheriff's office and the California Highway Patrol. In cases necessitated by the guest-list, the United States Secret Service collaborates in securing the surrounding areas and roads, underscoring the commitment to maintaining confidentiality and protection at the Bohemian Grove.

People Are Always Trying To Get In

pinterest

Despite the rigorous security measures in place, Bohemian Grove has experienced several notable infiltrations over the years. In 1980, Rick Clogher managed to gain access with the assistance of an employee, assuming the guise of a worker during two weekends of the annual encampment. His exposé, published in Mother Jones, marked the first magazine reporting from inside the Grove. Similarly, in 1989, Spy magazine writer Philip Weiss spent seven days undercover as a guest, resulting in his article "Inside the Bohemian Grove." However, he was eventually discovered and arrested for trespassing. Another infiltration occurred in 2000 when Alex Jones and his cameraman clandestinely entered the Grove, capturing footage of the Cremation of Care ceremony. Additionally, in 2002, Richard McCaslin was apprehended after infiltrating the Grove, where he set fires while heavily armed and adorned in a skull mask, an incident that garnered significant attention.

The Grove Has A Major Problem With Women

fair use

Despite the Bohemian Club's historically exclusive membership policy, which has barred women from full participation, there have been a few exceptions. Four women have been granted honorary membership, including hostess Margaret Bowman, poet Ina Coolbrith, actress Elizabeth Crocker Bowers, and writer Sara Jane Lippincott. However, since Coolbrith's passing in 1928, no additional women have been admitted. While honorary members and female guests are permitted access to certain areas of the Bohemian "City Club" building and can attend daytime events at the Grove, they are not allowed in the upper floors of the City Club or as guests to the main summer encampment. To accommodate female guests, the Club has hosted annual "Ladies' Jinks," providing a space for spouses and invited guests. Despite these efforts, the Club has faced criticism, notably in 2019 when Sonoma County Board of Supervisors member Lynda Hopkins raised concerns about the Club's exclusionary practices and its limited engagement with the local community, highlighting the ongoing challenges women face in gaining access to positions of influence.

The Location Is Steeped In Symbols

reddit

The Bohemian Grove is steeped in symbolism, with significant imagery deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Among these symbols is John of Nepomuk, the club's patron saint, whose legend tells of his martyrdom for protecting the confessional secrets of a queen. A prominent wood carving of St. John, depicted in clerical attire with his index finger pressed against his lips, stands by the lake within the Grove, representing the commitment to secrecy upheld by its attendees over the years. Additionally, the Grove's enduring emblem is an owl, symbolizing wisdom. A towering 30-foot hollow owl statue, crafted from concrete and steel supports, adorns the head of the lake. Designed by sculptor and former club president Haig Patigian in the late 1920s, this iconic Owl Shrine has served as the focal point for the annual Cremation of Care ceremony since 1929.

The Cremation of Care ceremony

fair use

The Cremation of Care ceremony, a longstanding tradition at Bohemian Grove, is a theatrical spectacle featuring club members in various roles. Originating in 1881 and devised by James F. Bowman with George T. Bromley portraying the High Priest, this production was initially part of the serious "High Jinks" dramatic performance during the first weekend of the summer encampment. The ceremony symbolically represents the purification of the spirit of "Care" through solemn cremation after its defeat in the Jinks hero's plot. Originally intended as a release for pent-up energy and a symbolic gesture of the club's commitment to environmental conservation, the ceremony has evolved over time. Now, it serves as an exorcism to ensure the success of the following two weeks of the encampment. The event unfolds in front of the Owl Shrine, a moss-covered statue concealing electrical and audio equipment within its structure. For many years, the voice of esteemed club member Walter Cronkite was used as the voice of The Owl during the ceremony.

These Guys Love To Put On A Play

fair use

Each year at Bohemian Grove, a grand theatrical production known as the Grove Play takes center stage during the final weekend of the summer encampment. This large-scale musical extravaganza is a collaborative effort written and composed by club members, showcasing the talents of approximately 300 individuals, including chorus members, actors, stage crew, and orchestra musicians. The tradition of the Grove Play dates back to 1902, although it was temporarily halted during the war years from 1943 to 1945. With its revival, the production has continued to captivate audiences, with one observer estimating its cost to be between $20,000 and $30,000 in 1975, equivalent to approximately $163,000 in today's currency.

How To Become A Member of Bohemian Grove

Library of Congress

Becoming a member of the Bohemian Club requires either a coveted invitation from multiple existing members or a patient wait spanning decades. Prospective members must also be prepared to cover a substantial initiation fee of $25,000, along with significant yearly dues. Membership, currently totaling around 2,500 individuals, tends to favor those of patrician background, Republican affiliation, and white ethnicity. Over the years, the club has welcomed captains of industry, politicians, and occasional artists, reflecting its eclectic yet exclusive nature. Among the distinguished attendees, both members and frequent guests, are some of the most notable figures in business and politics, who have graced the Bohemian Club encampments past and present.

The Manhattan Project May Have Been Birthed At Bohemian Grove

public domain

The Bohemian Grove's association with the creation of the Manhattan Project fuels conspiracy theories surrounding the secretive nature of the club. The fact that such a pivotal meeting, which led to the development of atomic weapons, took place within its secluded confines raises questions about the club's influence and connections to powerful entities. The gathering of top scientists, government officials, and military strategists at the Grove's Clubhouse adds an air of mystery to the club's activities, as it suggests a level of influence and decision-making beyond what is publicly known. Additionally, the presence of renowned physicists like J. Robert Oppenheimer and Enrico Fermi lends credence to the idea that the club may have played a significant role in shaping world events behind closed doors. This narrative adds to the intrigue surrounding the Bohemian Grove and contributes to the perception of it as a nexus of clandestine activities and powerful elites.

Nixon and Regan Made Huge Decisions At Bohemian Grove

NAID

In 1967, the Bohemian Grove reportedly became the setting for a significant political decision between Richard M. Nixon and Ronald Reagan, adding fuel to the conspiracy theories surrounding the secretive club. It's said that during a private meeting at the Grove, Nixon and Reagan reached an agreement on who would first seek the presidency, with Nixon ultimately winning the nomination for the 1968 presidential election. This story feeds into the conspiracy theories surrounding the Grove by suggesting that pivotal political decisions are made behind closed doors among the club's influential members.

Is It A Right Wing Think Tank?

fair use

Many people perceive Bohemian Grove as a right-wing think tank due to its historical association with influential Republican figures and its secretive nature regarding rituals and membership. Initially, the club was relatively accessible, but as it gained prominence in the 1930s and provided a haven for Republican presidents, it became more clandestine. Over the years, its membership roster has grown to include notable conservative figures like Henry Kissinger, David Rockefeller, and Nicholas Brady, attracting attention from left-wing protesters, elite scholars, and journalists. The encampment has evolved into a gathering place for Republican administration officials, defense contractors, media moguls, Hollywood personalities, and establishment intellectuals. With members like Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Gerald Ford, and Richard Nixon, Bohemian Grove has come to symbolize a nexus of conservative power akin to what the Bois de Boulogne represented for France's ancien régime.

Bohemian Grove Mixes Big Business With Politics

Getty Images

At Bohemian Grove, a fusion of business and influence shapes the landscape, with prominent figures from various industries converging to network and strategize. Notable business magnates like Thomas Watson Jr. of IBM and John Kluge of Metromedia rub shoulders with influential figures such as former Bank of America chairman Samuel Armacost and Bechtel chairman S. D. Bechtel Jr., who bring along other corporate titans like IBM chairman John F. Akers and Amoco chairman Richard Morrow. Alongside these captains of industry, renowned writers and personalities like Herman Wouk, Art Linkletter, and Fred Travalena add cultural flair to the proceedings. The allure of power attracts media moguls as well, with press lords like Joe Albritton, Charles E. Scripps, Otto Silha, and David Gergen making appearances, though they maintain a discreet silence regarding the events transpiring within the Grove's confines.

The Waiting List Is Decades Long

reddit

The waiting list for membership at Bohemian Grove is notorious, stretching back to the 1920s and often resulting in lengthy delays. It's rumored that for Californians, if they're not admitted by the age of 30, their chances diminish unless they attain significant commercial or political stature. Many hopefuls languish on the list indefinitely, with some passing away before receiving an invitation. Membership doesn't come cheap either, with an initiation fee for regular voting members rumored to be around $8,500 and annual dues exceeding $2,000. However, those deemed to possess exceptional talent may be granted membership at significantly reduced fees to satisfy the entertainment needs of the regular members.

There Are Worries About The Lakeside Talks

UC Santa Cruz

The Bohemian Grove's allure extends beyond its secretive rituals, drawing attention from protestors wary of its influence on public policy. Activist Mary Moore, speaking to Vice in 2011, highlighted the lakeside talks as a focal point of concern. These talks, she emphasized, serve as forums for powerful individuals to discuss and shape policy decisions away from public scrutiny. This lack of transparency fuels apprehension among activists, who view the Grove's clandestine discussions as potential drivers of undisclosed agendas.

Theodore Roosevelt Was An Honorary Member

international churchill society

The waiting list for Bohemian Grove membership has seen notable figures like Theodore Roosevelt, who was granted honorary club membership upon assuming the presidency. In a concise 1903 letter to club member Edgar D. Peixott, Roosevelt conveyed his appreciation for the "honor conferred upon me." Despite his esteemed status, Roosevelt expressed regret for being unable to attend a club function, underscoring the significance and exclusivity associated with membership at the Grove.

Richard Nixon Had A Tense Relationship With The Club

pinterest

The waiting list for Bohemian Grove membership has witnessed intriguing intersections of political history. In 1950, Richard Nixon's chance encounter with Herbert Hoover at the Grove led to a serendipitous meeting with his future running mate, Dwight D. Eisenhower. This encounter foreshadowed their joint Republican presidential ticket in 1952. Nixon later joined the Cave Man Camp, characterized as "highly conservative," leveraging his Bohemian Club membership for political aspirations. His Lakeside Speech in 1967 outlined foreign policy ideas, marking a pivotal step towards the presidency. Nixon's verbal agreement with Ronald Reagan at the Grove not to contest the Republican primary further underscores its political significance. However, Nixon's private remarks on the Grove, as revealed in the Watergate tapes, suggest a complex relationship with the club.

Ronald Reagan Didn't Embrace The Club Until 1980

Getty Images

Ronald Reagan's induction into the Bohemian Club in 1975 shed light on the exclusive nature of its membership. As a member of the Owl's Nest Camp, Reagan found himself among executives from prominent companies of the era, reflecting the club's influence during the 1970s. However, Reagan's relationship with the Bohemian Grove was not without its complexities. During the 1980 presidential election, Reagan opted to avoid the Grove due to concerns about media attention and potential embarrassment. Despite this, reports from Philip Weiss's Spy magazine expose suggest that Reagan did make appearances at the Grove, engaging in discussions and even confirming informal political agreements, such as his assurance to Nixon not to challenge him for the Republican nomination in 1968. These insights into Reagan's interactions with the Bohemian Grove add layers to the club's mystique and its role in shaping political dynamics.

George H.W. Bush Spent HIs Time At The Camp Hobnobbing With Titans Of Industry

fair use

The Bohemian Grove's waiting list serves as a testament to its exclusivity and allure, as demonstrated by the notable figures who have sought membership. George H.W. Bush's initiation into the club in 1973, amid his chairmanship of the Republican National Committee during the Watergate scandal, underscores the club's significance within political and business circles. Bush's affiliation with the Hill Billies camp, alongside executives from major corporations like Bank of America and General Motors, highlights the influential networks fostered within the Grove's confines. Additionally, Bush's introduction of his son, George W. Bush, at a lakeside talk in 1995 further illustrates the intergenerational connections and aspirations associated with Bohemian Grove membership.

No Cell Phones Allowed

FoundSF

At Bohemian Grove, the absence of cell phones and WiFi serves as a deliberate measure to preserve the secluded and exclusive atmosphere of the encampment. By disconnecting from the outside world, attendees can fully immerse themselves in the rituals, discussions, and camaraderie that define the Grove experience. This intentional disconnect also fosters a sense of privacy and security, allowing members to engage in candid conversations and activities without the distractions or intrusions of modern technology. Furthermore, the prohibition of cell phones and WiFi aligns with the club's longstanding tradition of secrecy and discretion, reinforcing the notion that what transpires within the Grove's wooded enclave remains confined to its privileged attendees.

The Patron Saint of the Grove

public domain

The connection between Bohemian Grove and Saint John of Nepomuk is shrouded in secrecy and tradition, echoing the club's penchant for mystique. While the Grove's rituals draw inspiration from various sources, including mythology and folklore, the presence of Saint John as its patron saint hints at a deeper significance. UNESCO's protection of his Pilgrimage Church in the Czech Republic underscores his revered status as a martyr known for safeguarding confessional secrecy. Legend has it that Saint John's sanctity arose from his steadfast commitment to preserving secrets, notably those of Queen Johanna of Bohemia. This devotion resonates with the ethos of Bohemian Grove, where privacy is paramount.

The Grove's Workers Have To Play By The Rules

reddit

The rules for employees at Bohemian Grove reflect the meticulous attention to decorum and tradition within the exclusive enclave. Staff members were obligated to address attendees as "gentlemen," a formality that contrasted with the less refined aspects of the encampment, such as public urination. The dress code imposed strict standards, requiring tattoos to be concealed with bandages and piercings to be removed. These regulations aimed to maintain a polished appearance and uphold the dignified atmosphere of the gathering. However, enforcing such rules often meant navigating encounters with assertive attendees accustomed to having their preferences catered to, even if it meant challenging the staff adhering to the established protocols.

Bohemian Grove's Members Have Taken Part In Illegal Logging

Library of Congress

The lush redwood forests owned by the Bohemian Club, spanning 2,700 acres, have long been subject to controversy over alleged illegal logging practices. Vanity Fair and investigative journalist Alex Shoumatoff shed light on these suspicions, spurred by former club member John C. Hooper's outspoken opposition to the logging activities. Hooper, once an insider, became disillusioned by the club's practices, witnessing the felling of towering redwoods and the transformation of hiking trails into logging roads. Despite club members' claims of responsible logging within permit guidelines, Hooper and Shoumatoff raised concerns about the true nature of the operations, particularly after the replacement of the club's original forester, who opposed the logging plans. Shoumatoff's attempt to uncover evidence was thwarted when he was apprehended inside the Grove. Subsequently, the club faced repercussions as its century-long logging permit was revoked, prompting a reevaluation of their logging proposals.