Exploring the Enigmatic Side of California this Summer: An Occult Travel Itinerary!
California in the 1920s and 1930s was a melting pot of creativity, misfits, and spiritualism, making it an ideal breeding ground for various occult and spiritual movements. One such period is vividly portrayed in the author's novel, "The Colony of Lost Souls," which draws inspiration from real-life locations and events in the Golden State.
For those seeking a taste of the era's opulence, Hearst Castle in San Simeon is a must-visit. The sprawling grounds and stunning pools are reminiscent of the grandeur that once graced the estate, hosting glamorous guests from the Hollywood Golden Age and presidents alike. Hearst Castle offers multiple guided tour options, including the grand rooms tour and the cottages and kitchen tour, providing an insightful glimpse into the life of William Randolph Hearst, the media magnate whose home served as the inspiration for the classic film Citizen Kane.
If a visit to Hearst Castle isn't possible, watching the film is the next best thing. For those more inclined towards literature, the author's novel offers a captivating narrative set in early 1930s California, featuring an occultist society on the coast. The house itself and the art collection at Hearst Castle are both jaw-dropping, making it easy to see why it served as such a powerful muse.
Another location that inspired the author is Crystal Cove State Park, located in Orange County. The park, with its beaches, tide pools, hiking trails, and wildlife, is a natural wonder. The author was able to stay in a historic beach house within the park and found it incredibly inspiring. Even if not able to stay in one of the cottages, visitors can still explore the park and experience the beauty that inspired the "place of miracles" in the author's novel.
The grand mansion in Los Angeles, Moorcrest, also played a significant role in the author's work. Moorcrest, built to house a utopian Theosophical society in the 1920s, later became the home of Charlie Chaplin and actress Mary Astor. The Kinima Theosophical Society in the author's book is a fictional society, but was inspired by real-life cults like The Blackburn Cult that operated in Southern California during the 1920s.
The Crocker Art Museum, located in Sacramento, offers a significant art collection, but it is not directly connected to the author's work or the period in question. However, the museum is worth a visit for art enthusiasts seeking to delve deeper into the rich artistic history of California.
California's allure extends beyond its stunning landscapes and architectural marvels. The state's open environment attracted various spiritual and esoteric movements, many of which drew from broader spiritual traditions like Theosophy and Hermeticism. The Theosophical Society's Krotona Colony in Los Angeles was a significant center for Theosophical activities in the 1920s, while the Ordo Templi Orientis had a presence in the state during the same period.
For those interested in the more macabre side of California's history, the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose offers a glimpse into the life of the eccentric Sarah Winchester, who designed the house in response to the deaths of her husband and child. The house, with its labyrinthine corridors and hidden passages, is a testament to Winchester's obsession with the occult and her belief that building the house would ward off the spirits of those who had died.
In essence, California during the 1920s and 1930s was a hotbed of creativity, spiritualism, and intrigue. The state's rich history, from its grand estates to its spiritual movements, continues to captivate and inspire, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a journey through time.
Readers captivated by California's historical lifestyle can explore home-and-garden settings like Hearst Castle in San Simeon, where grand rooms and cottages offer a glimpse into the 1930s' opulence. For those unable to travel, "The Colony of Lost Souls" novel provides an engaging escape into a California filled with occult societies and mysticism.
Furthermore, avid book enthusiasts may find solace in immersing themselves in California's cultural context through various books, including genre-defining works centered around the state's unique period of spiritualism and creativity.
