06/09/2005
Tourists drawn to spiritualist community
They arrive daily – sometimes by the busload. They are the bereaved seeking comfort, paranormal enthusiasts, and the curious. They are tourists, and they come to consult one of the more than 50 mediums, psychics, and healers. Where they come to is Cassadaga – home of the Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp – the oldest active religious community in the southeastern United States.
Cassadaga is one of those quaint little Central Florida towns that you might just drive through on the way to somewhere else with hardly a glance. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and thus provides a step back in time. It is filled with residents that don't look any different from you or me. There is nothing scary or spooky about Cassadaga.
Cassadaga was founded in 1894 by spiritualists who were looking for a warm weather retreat from the harsh New York winters. Today Church members occupy fifty-seven acres of land that is collectively owned. Defined by its folklore, this religious group is really not very different from other religious groups. They believe in God and the Golden Rule. They are different only in their belief that they can communicate with the dead
Readings by the Camp's certified mediums are intended to give you insight into your life or perhaps let you commune with the dearly departed. Other services include psychics, palm and card readers, tarot readings, and handwriting analysis.
The Camp is located just off I-4 between Orlando and Daytona Beach approximately 30 to 45 minutes from the major attractions. The historic Cassadaga Hotel not only features lodging, but many of the towns' services and a cafe.