The Great Second Advent Movement: Its Rise and Progress

Beginning of Modern Spiritualism

On March 24, 1849, a general meeting was held at Topsham, Maine. On that Sabbath a vision was given to Mrs. White, the subject of which was of the greatest importance. Perhaps a better understanding of the view will be obtained by getting before the mind a general idea of the situation at that time. GSAM 281.3

In the latter part of March, 1848, in Hydesville, Wayne Co., N.Y., began the “mysterious noises,” or what afterward developed into the “spirit rappings.” This first occurred in the house of the Fox family. In the latter part of the summer, the family moved to Rochester, N.Y., where, in Corinthian Hall, public demonstrations were made, and the girls were subjected to the closest examination by committees composed of ladies and gentlemen selected from the best citizens for that purpose. While the great majority of the people looked upon the rappings as a humbug, or some sleight-of-hand trickery, the most credulous had but little idea that it would grow to any great proportions. GSAM 281.4