The Fraternitas Rosae Crucis is among several strange societies and cults with Pennsylvania ties, and can be found in Quakertown and is still active to this day, writes Kalena Thomhave for The Keystone.

Rosicrucianism traces its roots to the 1600s Europe. It has since spread far beyond its original borders and shifted into the many offshoots that have put their own spin on the esoteric religious movement that uses a cross and rose as its symbol.

The movement encourages its followers to study science alongside religious mysticism to gain access to secret knowledge. It can be compared to the Freemasons. Both groups fit better into the definition of a secret society than a religious cult. Ben Franklin and Thomas Paine were both reportedly members of the group.

The first group of Rosicrucians in the United States, the Fraternitas Rosae Crucis, was founded in Quakertown. It still operates in Bucks County as an “ancient spiritual fraternity.”

Three Rosicrucian pyramids can be found in Quakertown. And while they are located within Beverly Hall, the group’s private property, the structures can be seen from the road.

Read more about Quakertown’s Fraternitas Rosae Crucis in The Keystone.