Materialisation séances were once far more popular and accessible than they are today. In earlier times, there were more physical mediums, many of whom conducted both private and, occasionally, public séances. These practices, however, were often hazardous. Authorities showed little tolerance for the paranormal and related activities. In England, numerous mediums were arrested and prosecuted under the Witchcraft Act. Some were even summarily executed after being accused of demonology and other such charges.
At the time, interest in the paranormal was still in its early stages, and people were eager for knowledge. I once asked my communicator why there were more physical mediums in the past compared to the present. I was told that people in earlier times required more physical proof. Today, a greater number of people already accept the reality of the paranormal, which has reduced the demand for such overt demonstrations.
One of the most fascinating forms of physical mediumship for me has always been the materialisation of spirits into physical form through ectoplasm emanating from the medium. These sessions typically took place in near-total darkness, with only a low-wattage red light, which was believed to be less disruptive to the ectoplasmic process. Most materialised forms remained static, though some displayed movement, and in rare instances, they even communicated vocally with the sitters.
Footage of these phenomena is extremely scarce, primarily due to the technical limitations of the time. This is unfortunate, as more documentation would have greatly contributed to our understanding of the subject.
Although such gatherings were usually held in secrecy due to the risk of prosecution, some physical mediums did invite clients to attend. This added another layer of fascination, as loved ones would reportedly materialise looking, feeling, smelling, and sounding exactly as they had in life. Remarkably, the materialised spirits would even speak in their native languages, sometimes communicating in dialects that were exceedingly rare.
The authenticity of these events drew the attention of dignitaries and skeptics alike. However, over time, physical mediumship became increasingly rare. Today, it is almost impossible to find individuals with such unique abilities.
The photo above is taken from the documentary Journey Into the Beyond, which shows a materialised figure at a séance. I highly recommend watching the documentary if you have not already done so.
