The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 13

The First Spiritual Convention

The First Spiritual Convention.

Mr Spear, on rising, begged to preface his address by a few remarks of a historical nature. He had the pleasure of stating that he suggested the first Spiritual Convention held in America or in the world, and his pleasure was increased by being present at the first held in this country. The speaker gave an interesting account of the first public teachings of Spiritualists in America. A minister was asked to preach a sermon in favour of it, which he did from the text, "Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy," which was listened to by an interested audience. Then the first Convention was held in Boston, Mass. The hall was filled with strangers, but they did not know how to begin, so undisciplined and devoid of purpose were they at that early stage. The eccentric antics of a medium amused some and astonished others, and thus the work began. A paper was started, and other meetings were held, at one of which the speaker had his first experiences of spirit influence. The cause had been spreading and gathering strength ever since. A most successful national Convention had just been held, at which the most advanced political and humanitarian views were advocated. The movement in America now included the wisest heads in the land, those who by pen and tongue were labouring most earnestly and successfully for the promotion of human happiness. When he came to this country he asked if any conventions were held, but no one understood what he meant, as such gatherings were unknown. He wanted to get up one in London, but could not. He was glad when he heard of the present one. He wished it had been more in the centre, near London; but he believed that every good movement originated in the North, and he hoped they would send the result of their experience out into other parts of the kingdom. Mr Spear then proceeded to deliver