Theosophical Endeavors in the Magnolia State

In the late 19th century, Helena Blavatsky founded Theosophy, a faith that based on a mixture of mainstream religious ideas, science, and paranormal beliefs. Theosophy is often regarded as the precursor to new age faiths popularized in the 1960s and even Ufology. The new faith did not spread in popularity in the south like it did elsewhere in the United States. Undaunted, early theosophical leaders looked to the south to increase the size of their faith. They were able to establish several lodges in first decade of the twentieth century in cities such as Austin, Louisville, New Orleans, Raleigh. Interestingly, Mississippi and Alabama had more lodges than most other southern states. Many these lodges in the two states emerged between 1910-1930. Vicksburg was one of the earliest lodges in the south starting around 1893. There were also lodges in Gulfport, Jackson, and Greenwood. Meridian and Greenwood even attempted to start lodges in the 1940s. In general, lodges were led by prominent people in the community, often being women. In this presentation, Dr. Thomas Kersen will offer a detailed discussion of Theosophy in the Mississippi. He will also assess the impact that faith had within their respective host communities.

Speakers Expertise:

Dr. Thomas Michael Kersen is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Jackson State University. His research interests include sociology of religion and spirituality, population studies, military sociology, civic roles, and the need for liberal arts and humanities in the public arena, community, and communal living. He is the author of the book, Land Where Misfits Fit: Counterculture and Influence in the Ozarks published by University Press of Mississippi in 2021.