Last night, I was watching Decoded on the History Channel and was reminded of something I had read before but had forgotten about. It was a much-improved episode that focused on the mysterious cabal that gathers every year in Bohemian Grove in the Russian River area of California.
The powerful, wealthy, and influential men of this country (and others) have sought refuge deep within the towering redwoods of Northern California for more than a century. They’ve come to act like drunken frat boys or lodge members, complete with bizarre druidesque rituals.
While it may appear to be a lot of arrested adolescence, one can’t help but think that this concentration of power has an impact on society as a whole. Here, undoubtedly, under-the-table deals are made, and secrets may slip from whiskey-loosened lips. Others on the show argued that political decisions are made on golf courses and in churches all the time. But, in my opinion, both are equally dangerous. This isn’t how we run our government. It shouldn’t, at least.
It was suggested in this episode that sour grapes are to blame for much of the unease and suspicion surrounding the activities at Bohemian Grove, but I disagree. When presidents, senators, and other politicians combine ad hoc policy shaping and national decision making with drinking, dressing in drag, and worshiping a monolithic owl head in druidic robes, there’s a genuine cause for concern. Under these circumstances, one can’t help but believe that influence grows stronger and clear-thinking suffers.
A sociologist who investigated the Grove’s activities waxed poetically about fraternal bonds and intimacy. Everything was very naked-male-drum-circle-like. But what happens to us when our elected representatives are tainted by the same fraternal bond? How frequently does it take precedence over the national good? How many battles started in the Grove to satisfy small men’s personal greed? We can only wonder and worry because we don’t know—because we CAN’T know.
Even in the off-season, the team was unable to break through the Grove’s tight security. Two of the four who attempted a river approach were apprehended immediately after trespassing. The episode, on the other hand, managed to reveal enough information to give us all pause.
Here’s where you can learn more about the history of Bohemian Grove.