Founding of the Theosophical Society in New York (1875)

The Theosophical Society was established in New York City in 1875 by Helena Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, and William Quan Judge. The group formed after Olcott and Judge recognized Blavatsky's unique spiritual capabilities. A meeting in September 1875 solidified the plan to create an esoteric organization, officially named the Theosophical Society. The society was formally constituted in November 1875, marking the beginning of its institutional history.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Henry Steel Olcott, a journalist and spiritualist, met Helena Blavatsky in 1874 while investigating mediumship claims. Olcott became interested in psychological and mystical studies, leading to his collaboration with Blavatsky. In early 1875, Olcott and Judge concluded that Blavatsky possessed extraordinary spiritual abilities. This recognition prompted the decision to establish a formal organization dedicated to esoteric studies.

Formation. In January 1875, Blavatsky and Olcott investigated spiritualist mediums in Philadelphia, assessing the authenticity of their phenomena. On September 7, 1875, Blavatsky, Olcott, and Judge agreed to create an esoteric organization during a Miracle Club meeting. Charles Sotheran proposed the name 'Theosophical Society.' The society was officially formed in New York City on November 17, 1875, by the founders and sixteen others.

People involved

Sources

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