Royal Society 

Formed from a small group of enthusiasts known as the Philosophical Clubbe in Oxford.  Once they were established in London they often met at the Bull's Head Tavern in Cheapside.  (See "Who's Afraid of Freemasons?" by Piatigorsky page 115)

Edward Oakley was a member of the Royal Society.  So was Francis Drake. (See "Who's Afraid of Freemasons?" by Piatigorsky page 114)

Much of their work was kept Secret since the Catholic Church did not really approve of scientific studies and caused many Scientists to be arrested by the Inquisition, which was not pleasant for the person arrested.  The leaders of the Catholic Church seem to have enjoyed watching these heretics Burn at the Stake after having been tortured until they gave a confession.  After all, they claimed it was done to please God.  What perverts they were!  Today, anyone who murdered people by Burning them at the Stake for not agreeing totally with a Religion would would be considered a real pervert and would be locked up unless rescued by the ACLU.  We should thank the Great Architect of the Universe that Religions no longer govern most of the civilized countries of the world.  Let's keep it that way.

While the leaders of the Catholic Church were punishing Freethinking Scientists and Philosophers by Burning them at the Stake, or by imprisoning them, or by torturing them the Royal Society, along with the Freemasons, were encouraging people to study Science and the Universe.  Only the Religion of the Catholic Church seem to feel threatened by people attempting to understand the Universe.  Of course the threat of being tortured and Burned at the Stake encouraged the smart Freethinkers to develop Secret Societies for their studies so as not to incur the wrath of a pissed-off Catholic Church.

Dr, William Stukeley is said to have been a member of the Royal Society. (See MPD_0037)