So, a couple of days ago, I wrote about tombstones and graveyards. I learned about The Devil’s Chair, in Cassadaga, Florida. My research claimed that Cassadaga has quite a bit of paranormal lore, and I knew I’d had to circle back.
Nestled in Volusia County, just a short drive from Orlando, lies Cassadaga, a town so spiritually charged, it’s been dubbed the “Psychic Capital of the World.” Founded in 1894 by George P. Colby, a trance medium guided by his spirit companion, Seneca, Cassadaga was envisioned as a Southern haven for Spiritualists seeking connection with the beyond. Today, it remains the oldest continuously active Spiritualist community in the southeastern United States, with a population of mediums, healers, and seekers who believe the veil between worlds is particularly thin in this area.
The Spiritualist Camp: Where the Magic Happens
At the heart of Cassadaga is the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp Meeting Association, a 57-acre community featuring over 65 historic buildings. Visitors can attend church services, workshops, and classes, or book readings with certified mediums and healers. The camp’s philosophy centers on the belief that life continues after death and that communication with the spirit world is not only possible but encouraged.
Spiritualism: A Blend of Science and Belief
Spiritualism in the 19th century was seen by its adherents as a rational and scientific approach to understanding the afterlife. Practitioners believed that human personalities survive death and can communicate with the living through mediums. This perspective positioned spiritualism as both a science and a religion, aiming to explore the natural world and the spirit realm.
Notable Figures: B. Anne Gehman
B. Anne Gehman, a renowned medium associated with Cassadaga, contributed significantly to the community’s spiritual education. She founded the Spiritual Research Society in Orlando and was involved in various spiritualist organizations. The library at the Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp is named in her honor, reflecting her impact on the community.
Hotel Cassadaga: Resting Place for the Living and the Dead
For those brave enough to stay overnight, the Hotel Cassadaga offers accommodations with a side of spectral activity. Guests have reported hearing unexplained noises, experiencing flickering lights, and even encountering ghostly apparitions. The hotel also houses a Psychic Center where visitors can receive readings in various modalities, including tarot, astrology and mediumship.
Shops and Curiosities: Embrace Your Inner Mystic
Cassadaga is dotted with quaint shops offering a wide range of items, from crystals and incense to aura photography and chakra balancing. The Purple Rose Trading Company and the Cassadaga Psychic Shop (wow, that’s quite a website, time to make it accessible, my friends) are popular stops for those looking to take a piece of the magic home. I so want to go!
Experience Cassadaga
Visitors to Cassadaga can explore its historic buildings, attend spiritualist services, and participate in workshops. The community offers a range of experiences for those interested in spiritualism, from private readings with mediums to educational classes on metaphysical topics. The town’s serene environment and rich history provide a unique setting for personal exploration and spiritual growth. For a visual tour of this mystical town, check out the following video. That’s not me, but how cool is she!?
Final Thoughts: A Town Like No Other
Cassadaga is more than just a quirky tourist destination; it’s a community steeped in history, mystery, and a deep belief in the unseen. Whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or somewhere in between, Cassadaga stands as a testament to the enduring human desire to connect with the unknown. Its blend of history, spirituality, and community offers a distinctive experience for all who visit.
