[4][5] Its founders wanted to encourage class and collage loyalty, create good fellowship, and continue college traditions.

[5] Historically, the Raven's Claw membership has consisted of seven students and two faculty advisors, with many members also belonging to social fraternities on campus.

[6] The society served Dickinson College and Carlisle, Pennsylvania communities through discreet service activities.

[8][4] The new members are chosen based on character, leadership, and involvement in the campus and community during their first three years at Dickinson College.

[8][3] Infrequently, the society breaks with its traditions and inducts a faculty or staff members, such as coach Richard MacAndrews in 1943.