Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Edgar Cayce - The Sleeping Prophet in Selma, Alabama

Edgar Cayce (1877-1945) was one of the most unique individuals of the early 20th century.

Born in Kentucky, he was a psychic that many called the "Sleeping Prophet" because he did his readings while in a state of self-hypnosis. Beginning in around 1901-1902, Cayce developed a widespread reputation because of what believers said was his ability to diagnosis medical conditions and recommend cures that often worked. He did this without examining or, in many cases, even meeting the patients.

In 1912, Cayce moved from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, to Selma, Alabama. In Selma he operated a photography studio for twelve years, was active in community affairs and was often mentioned in newspapers across the country. By 1920, one of the Birmingham newspapers was able to report that he had done readings for thousands of people, mystifying doctors and scientists in the process.

Edgar Cayce lived in Selma until 1923. The storefront where he kept his photography studio and also lived still stands today. To learn more, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/selmacayce.

2 comments:

TheElegantVagrant said...

Awww, I had no idea I was so close to Edgar Cayce's hometown a few weeks ago! I would definitely have stopped by... Maybe on the way to the southwest... I'd love to surprise my girlfriend with that! She doesn't know much about him, but I'm sure she would be intrigued. Thanks for the post!!

Dale Cox said...

He definitely had an intriguing life! I'm curious to see if the Great Lakes drain to the Gulf in a couple of years as he predicted.

Dale