Spiritualism in America

One of the most sacred ideals at the heart of American identity is our freedom of religion. Since the earliest days of our country, people came here to follow their religious convictions free from fear and persecution. This beautiful freedom has allowed many religions to grow and thrive in communities all across the country.

One of these religions is Spiritualism, which debuted in America during the 1840s in a region of northern New York. At the core of its theology, Spiritualism is based on the belief that the spirits of people who have passed are able and willing to communicate with the living; that you are responsible for your actions and must right your wrongs; and that any individual is able to communicate directly with God.

Unlike many other formal religious movements at the time, Spiritualism was shared through traveling lectures, retreats and other activities. Many of the most vocal Spiritualists were in fact women who supported the abolition of slavery and advocated for the right to vote. As the religious movement gained momentum and spread across the country, there were criticisms. These criticisms led to the church becoming more organized and led to traditions that included a Sunday worship service and other fellowship opportunities. To this day there are different sects of Spiritualism that follow Christian traditions to varying degrees.

Another fascinating aspect of Spiritualism is the Spiritualist Camps that became more prevalent as the religion gained followers. These camps were where Spiritualists would gather and listen to lectures, conduct séances and enjoy the fellowship of other Spiritualist. These camps still exist today and remain a place for believers to gather and share their ideas.

Historic Spiritualist Camps

Cassadaga, Florida

Not too far from the excitement of Orlando and the beaches of Daytona lies Cassadaga, Florida. Informally known as the “psychic capital of the world”, Cassadega was founded more than 119 years ago by George Colby. To this day it is a quiet and peaceful community where healers, mediums, and other Spiritualists live among the natural beauty of central Florida.

Camp Chesterfield

Located in the heart of Indiana, Camp Chesterfield is a historic community of Spiritualists that was founded in 1886. While some of the historic buildings have been rebuilt, Camp Chesterfield remains a busy Spiritualist community filled with educational workshops, readings, worship services, as well as cultural exhibitions.

Lily Dale, New York

Found in southwestern New York, Lily Dale is the original home of Spiritualism in America and remains an important spiritualist community. Even though the population is listed at 225 people, there are more than 20,000 visitors each year that come to attend lectures, workshops and for personal readings. Additionally, Lily Dale features the historic home of the Fox sisters, two of the most famous members of the Spiritualist movement.

While Spiritualism is not a major religion, it is an important one with its roots in early American history. Even if you can’t travel to one of the Spiritualist communities around the country, there may be a church near you that would serve as a great place to learn more about this religion.