Janet Kerschner/Sandbox: Difference between revisions

From Theosophy Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
 
(19 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
'''UNDER CONSTRUCTION - Mahatma Letter of Sinnett to/from KH - 1883-06-09'''<br>
'''Eugene W. Munson''' was a member of the [[American Theosophical Society]] and lecturer for the [[Krotona in Hollywood|Krotona Institute of Theosophy]].
'''UNDER CONSTRUCTION'''<br>
{{Infobox MLbox
| header1 = People involved |
| writtenby        = [[Koot Hoomi]], [[A. P. Sinnett]]
| receivedby        = [[A. P. Sinnett]], [[Koot Hoomi]] 
| sentvia          = unknown{{pad|10em}}
| header2 = Dates
| writtendate      = 9 June 1883
| receiveddate      = unknown
| otherdate        = unknown
| header3 = Places
| sentfrom          = unknown
| receivedat        = unknown
| vialocation      = unknown
}} 
This letter has not been published previously. [[A. P. Sinnett]] wrote to [[Mahatma]] [[Koot Hoomi]], who added notes and gave the original to [[H. P. Blavatsky]], with instructions to keep the letter.


== Note to H. P. Blavatsky from K.H. ==


{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
'''Note written in blue ink across the top of page 1:'''<br>


Keep<br>
== Personal life ==


KH
On [[November 9]], 1877, Eugene Webster Munson was born in Marshall, California to Miron Munson and Fannie Aldrich Munson.<ref>1926 Passenger list...........</ref> He had two older sisters and one younger brother. By 1880, the family had moved to Spokane, Washington.<ref>1880 United States Federal Census.</ref> Little is known of the life of Miron, but by 1900, Fannie had remarried to Joseph E. Cohenhour. They lived in Chicago with three of the children, including Eugene, who at age 23 was working as an electrician.<ref>1900 United States Federal Census.</ref>


{{Col-break|width=3%}}
At some point Eugene moved to Roswell, Idaho, a small town near Boise, where he was part owner of a general store, and regarded as "one of the  substantial citizens of that community."<ref>"A Roswell Wedding" ''Caldwell Tribune'' 29 (August 1, 1908): 2.</ref> On August 1, 1908, he married Mattie Doll of Saugatuck, Michigan, and they moved into a well-furnished bungalow.


{{Col-break|width=15%}}
== Theosophical Society activities ==


[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_1.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_1_note_thm.jpg] 
Munson joined the San Buena Ventura Lodge of the American Theosophical Society on October 10, 1904. In 1909-10 he became president of the newly formed branch in Salt Lake City.<ref>"Salt Lake City" ''The Theosophic Messenger'' 11 no. 10 (July, 1910): 633.</ref> He was temporarily lodging in Utah and working as a draftsman, while lecturing weekly at Theosophical meetings.<ref>1910 United States Federal Census.</ref>


{{Col-break|width=30%}}
[[File:Krotona Hollywood staff .jpg|right|300px|thumb|Krotona Hollywood staff, Munsons at right]]
=== Krotona in Hollywood ===
In late 1912, he disposed of his Idaho property, including a ranch, and in early 1913 moved to '''[[Krotona in Hollywood]]'''.<ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 29 (December 20, 1912): 4. </ref><ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 30 (January 10, 1913): 7. </ref> As the local newspaper reported:
<blockquote>
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Munson will soon leave for Krotona, California, near Los Angeles. Mr. and Mrs. Munson are moving so as to be near the new headquarters of the Theosophical society. They are thoroughly devoted to the Theosophical cause and feel it their duty to take a move active part in the work at Krotona.<ref>''Caldwell Tribune'' 30 (January 3, 1913): 4. </ref>
</blockquote>


'''NOTES:'''
He wrote articles for Theosophical periodicals, such as "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy"<ref>"Eugene W. Munson, "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy" ''The Messenger'' 3 no. 6 (November, 1915): 164-165.</ref> He demitted to the Krotona Lodge in 1917.<ref>Membership Ledger Cards roll 5. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> Beginning in 1917, he served as treasurer of the national Society.<ref>Eugene W. Munson. "Treasurer's Report" ''The Messenger'' Statistical Year Book supplement 5 no. 4 (September, 1917): 4.</ref>
*


{{Col-end}}
During the Hollywood years of [[Krotona in Hollywood|Krotona Institute of Theosophy]], Eugene Munson helped to arrange activities for the many visitors:
<blockquote>
It is becoming the custom for members of the Society living in nearby towns, to come to Krotona for their vacations. Here they may enjoy the soft climate of our Hollywood hills, pleasant even during the summer months, and attend the lectures of the krotona institute of Theosophy, as well as assist in the work in the offices. Weekly excursions to the beaches or mountains, arranged for by Mr. Eugene Munson, are indulged in by the visitors and students.
</blockquote>


== Note on A. P. Sinnett letter from K.H. ==
Mattie Munson also worked for the Institute as a printer and multigrapher. When the '''Besant Lodge of Krotona''' was established in October 1920 with 56 members, Eugene was a charter member and vice president, with [[Marie Poutz]] as president.<ref>"Besant Lodge, Krotona" ''The Messenger'' 8 no. 7 (December, 1920): 577.</ref> In 1922 he coordinated a national campaign to relieve hardships  of Russian Theosophists, raising over $600.<ref>"Relief of Russian Theosophist" '' The Messenger'' 10 no.1 (June, 1822): 12.</ref>


{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
[[File:Krotona on October 3 1926.jpg|right|350px|thumb|Annie Besant visit to Ojai on October 3, 1926. Munson in white.]]
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
=== Krotona in Ojai ===
'''Note written in blue ink diagonally across the top of page 5:'''<br>
Munson was instrumental in moving the Krotona Institute from Hollywood to Ojai, California. The Munsons were the first residents at the new Krotona, initially living in the Kerfoot Ranch House while supervising construction of the new buildings.<ref>Elena Doval Santos email to Janet Kerschner. August 20, 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.</ref> For many years he assisted George Hall in managing the estate.


All wrong
=== Lecture tours ===


{{Col-break|width=3%}}
After Krotona had become established in Hollywood, Munson became more active in the national organization. George H. Hall, Manager of the Krotona Estate, wrote:
<blockquote>
Later he entered the service of The Theosophical Society in America as a National Lecturer, and traveled throughout the United States lecturing and organizing study classes and lodges. He was one of the best lecturers for the Society and made many friends all over the country. It was from this work that I called him in 1923 to help me at Hollywood before we moved to Ojai. When we sold the Hollywood property, he and Mrs. Munson were the first to move to Ojai, and for nearly thirty years we have worked together to build the new Krotona in the Ojai Valley.<ref>"Mr. Eugene W. Munson" ''The American Theosophist'' 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.</ref>
</blockquote>


{{Col-break|width=15%}}
During the years 1916-1922, Munson worked as a National Lecturer of the [[American Theosophical Society]], touring for months on end. In the years 1919-1920, for example, he lectured in at least 50 cities of 19 states and Canada.<ref>See multiple references in ''The Canadian Theosophist'' 1 no. 1-4 (March-June 1920).</ref> His presentations received excellent reviews from local newspapers. After speaking in Pueblo, Colorado, a reviewer wrote:
<blockquote>
Mr. Munson has just competed a very successful course in Denver, speaking to capacity houses. He is a pleasant speaker  and uses anecdotes, stereopticon and blackboard illustrations freely in demonstrating the more unfamiliar phases of his subject.


[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_5.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_5_note_thm.jpg] 
He appears practical and level-headed, being an engineer by profession.<ref>"Lecture Course in Theosophy" ''Pueblo Chieftain'' (March 12, 1922): 6.</ref>
</blockquote>


{{Col-break|width=30%}}
During the First World War, he often lectured about topics related to current events, such as an occult view of the war and the rebirth of those who died in wartime in his lecture "What Comes Out of the War;" "The Occult Relations of France, Great Britain, and the United State;" and "The New International Ship of State" [referring to the League of Nations].


'''NOTES:'''
Usually Munson spoke more directly about Theosophical subjects, using the stereopticon slides of [[Thought-Forms|thought forms]] and the [[Astral Body|astral body]] developed by [[C. W. Leadbeater]]. Titles included "How Many Lives Have You Lived?," "Do the Dead Return," "The Path of Achievement," "The Inner Gates of the Soul," and "The Science of the Borderland" [Theosophical explanations of spiritualistic experiences]. A reviewer in Great Falls, Montana, wrote of "The Hidden Side of Things":
*
<blockquote>
In the course of his address, which was heard by a large gathering of interested men and women, Mr. Munson described how telepathy is possible, explained what thoughts are, showing them as tangible objects, with shape and color visible to the occult eye. Mr. Munson also dealt somewhat at length on the evolution of the soul toward perfection.


{{Col-end}}
The lecture was the first of a series of four to be given here... The purpose of the lectures is to arouse interest in the science of theosophy with the idea of perfecting an organization in this city.<ref>"Theosophists Plan to Organize Here" Great Falls Daily Tribune (September 12, 1921): 9.</ref>
</blockquote>


== Page 1 of Sinnett letter transcription, image, and notes ==
In 1939, he assisted [[Marie Russak Hotchener]], [[Marie Poutz]], [[Henry Hotchener]], and Eugene Wix in conducting a dedication of new lodge rooms at the Compton Lodge.<ref>"Compton Lodge Dedicates New Home" ''The American Theosophist'' 27 no.12 (December, 1939): 287.</ref> Munson had helped to organize that lodge.


{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
== Other activities ==
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
My dear Guardian,


As the London Society, or the [[London Lodge]] of the [[Theosophical Society|T.S.]] as we had decided to call it, &ndash; progresses with its esoteric studies I propose to send you notes concerning the various questions raised which I find myself unable to deal with confidently. The more vigorous and prosperous the undertaking becomes, the more I suppose such questions will multiply, but for the present they are comparatively few as the Society generally has not climbed up even to my own nimble level of occult knowledge.
George Hall wrote:
<blockquote>
In addition to his interest in Krotona and its activities, he took a keen interest in public affairs, and was always generous with his time and contributions to many outside interests. He did much to acquaint the people of the Valley with Krotona an to win for us the respect and friendliness of the community.<ref>"Mr. Eugene W. Munson" ''The American Theosophist'' 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.</ref>
</blockquote>


Firstly however in regard to general progress [[Anna Bonus Kingsford|Mrs Kingsford’s]] state of mind appears fairly satisfactorily. She has now read my book in proof, and fully recognizes the substantial identity of our teaching and that
Eugene Munson was a 32° [[Co-Masonry|Co-Mason]].


{{Col-break|width=3%}}
== Later years ==


{{Col-break|width=15%}}
Munson continued lecturing from time to time, and also spoke in live radio programs.<ref>"San Buenaventura" ''The American Theosophist'' 37 no.5 (May, 159(: 101-102.</ref> At the time of his death in 1952, Munson was a member of the Krotona Board of Trustees. He died on [[October 31]], 1952 in Los Angeles.<ref>1952 California, U.S., Death Index, 1940-1997.</ref>
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_1.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_1_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
* '''my book''' refers to Sinnett's second book, [[Esoteric Buddhism (book)|''Esoteric Buddhism'']], which was published in 1883.
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Page 2 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
which she has herself received. Where there are discrepancies she seems willing now to put such difficulties aside for future elucidation at a later stage. She has great working and persuasive power and if she receives instruction from her own guardians or inner spirit or whoever they may be, will no doubt throw herself <u>con</u><u>amore</u> into the [[Theosophy|Theosophical]] propaganda. A very little impulse now would set her to work on public lectures, but my own inclination is rather to wait a little longer and get the [[Theosophical Society|Society]] into a still more rigorous condition internally first &ndash; before urging her to do this.
 
[[Mary Gebhard|Madam Gebhard]] is a person of the most indomitably steadfast nature, but she will have to go back now to Germany. Would you wish her to attempt the establishment of a T.S. lodge at Elberfeld? or is it not worthwhile to multiply branches
 
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_2.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_2_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
* '''con amore''' is an Italian expression that literally means "with love," used to indicate an action carried out with love, devotion, or zest.
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Page 3 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
with ladies at their head?
 
Can you tell me whether you ever took possession of a letter from Madam Gebhard a year or two ago, and whether you gave her a mental reply as she is inclined to believe though anxious not to encourage impressions to that effect on insufficient grounds.
 
Can you tell me for my own guidance in dealing with such cases, what is the possibility before such women as Madam Gebhard, cool, resolute seekers of occult advancement with all the qualities apparently that aught qualify them for regular chelaship, if sex did not stand in the way? Are they likely to obtain an artificial reincarnation at death in a body better fitted for success?
 
Madam Gebhard seems to us to have the making of a tried [[chela]] in her, more even than Mrs Kingsford, great as the psychic gifts of this latter lady are, at all events to be as well qualified in a different way
 
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_3.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_3_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
* Mary Gebhard is known to have received at least two letters from K. H. and one from the [[Mahatma]] [[Morya]], and may have had other communications from them.
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Page 4 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
Now about my questions.
 
If a dead infant may be [[Reincarnation|reincarnated]] on the lines of the old [[Karma|karmic]] affinities almost immediately, may the half grown boy or girl reincarnate at short periods. Say 1500 years is about the shortest interval for an adult, then may there be all the gradations of intervals in the case of young persons dying with imperfectly developed Karma. Common sense seems to indicate thus.
 
Is there any essential difference as to their spiritual origin between noxious and innocuous animals. Of course the crude idea about the noxious animals representing the relapse into lower forms of criminal egos once having elevated to a higher level, will not work: but there may be some mystery behind this problem susceptible of explanations.
 
The planet behind us in our
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_4.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_4_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
*
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Page 5 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
[[Planetary Chain|chain]], Mars, and the one in advance being apparently quite material on the same plane of materiality as the Earth now is and that the planets behind Mars and in advance of Mercury, are quite too ethereal to be perceived by physical observations ? There seems too abrupt a passage here from gross materiality to a high order of ethereality. 
 
[[spiritualism|Spiritualistic]] cases to which such explanations as I can give seem not to apply keep multiplying on my hands.
 
[[William Crookes|Crookes]] stands in the way one direction with [[Katie King]]; fully materialized according to his account time after time always the same highly intelligent and distinct entity.
 
Drayson tells various stories pointing to accurate knowledge of facts by “spirits” quite outside the knowledge of any sitters also of cases in which predictions by spirits are verified afterwards.
 
This matter about
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_5.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_5_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
* '''Katie King''' was a materialized spirit appearing through many [[Mediumship|mediums]].
* '''Drayson''' refers to General Alfred Wilks Drayson, a member of the [[London Lodge]].
* '''sitters''' refers to mediums.
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Page 6 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
conveyed either [[spiritualism|spiritualistically]] or by vision perplexes me very much. A few days ago, Mrs Kingsford had a vision of herself in a Hansom cab meeting with a certain accident of no great importance but precise in its nature. The accident only happened in the course of the day just as foreseen; and yet it could only have occurred by the confluence of a hundred different acts by different people each apparently determinedly free will. Mrs K has had many similar experiences.
 
Judged by external signs the Indo-British newspaper company looks as if it were hardly destined to acquire an adult karma; as if it might prove one of the failures of Nature we sometimes talk about. But until I hear from you that the enterprise has
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_6.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_6_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
*
 
{{Col-end}}
== Page 7 ==
 
{{Col-begin|width=98%}}
{{Col-break|width=55%}}
fallen through, I shall continue to believe that it will ultimately float. Only inasmuch as if it should not float, I shall have to recast my plans in life to some extent, I should be glad to know the worst at the earliest moment by telegraph if you would kindly have word sent to me that way, in the event of the scheme being definitely abandoned by you. Of course I hope I may never [word scratched out] receive any such telegram.
 
Your affectionately as Ever
 
A P Sinnett
 
{{Col-break|width=3%}}
 
{{Col-break|width=15%}}
 
[http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_7.jpg http://www.theosophy.wiki/mywiki/images/ML/UnpubKH1_7_thm.jpg]
 
{{Col-break|width=30%}}
 
'''NOTES:'''
*
 
{{Col-end}}
 
== Context and background ==
 
The next known letter from K. H. to Sinnett was [[Mahatma Letter No. 111]] (in chronological numbering system, or No. 59 in the Barker system). That is quite a long letter covering many subjects.
 
== Physical description of letter ==
 
Two sheets of paper were folded and written on both sides. Notations by K.H. are in blue ink. This letter is in a private collection.
 
== Publication history ==
 
This letter has never been published before.
 
== Commentary about this letter ==
 
The chief significance of this letter is that it is a rare example of Sinnett's side of his correspondence with the Mahatmas, and that [[H. P. Blavatsky|Madame Blavatsky]] was instructed to preserve it.
 
== Additional resources ==


== Notes ==
== Notes ==
<references/>
<references/>


[[Category:ML from Koot Hoomi]]  
[[Category:Lecturers|Munson, Eugene]]
[[Category:ML to A. P. Sinnett]]
[[Category:TS Adyar|Munson, Eugene]]
[[Category:ML with images]]
[[Category:Nationality American|Munson, Eugene]]
[[Category:Krotona Hollywood|Munson, Eugene]]
[[Category:Co-Masons|Munson, Eugene]]
[[Category:People|Munson, Eugene]]

Latest revision as of 21:37, 31 October 2023

Eugene W. Munson was a member of the American Theosophical Society and lecturer for the Krotona Institute of Theosophy.


Personal life

On November 9, 1877, Eugene Webster Munson was born in Marshall, California to Miron Munson and Fannie Aldrich Munson.[1] He had two older sisters and one younger brother. By 1880, the family had moved to Spokane, Washington.[2] Little is known of the life of Miron, but by 1900, Fannie had remarried to Joseph E. Cohenhour. They lived in Chicago with three of the children, including Eugene, who at age 23 was working as an electrician.[3]

At some point Eugene moved to Roswell, Idaho, a small town near Boise, where he was part owner of a general store, and regarded as "one of the substantial citizens of that community."[4] On August 1, 1908, he married Mattie Doll of Saugatuck, Michigan, and they moved into a well-furnished bungalow.

Theosophical Society activities

Munson joined the San Buena Ventura Lodge of the American Theosophical Society on October 10, 1904. In 1909-10 he became president of the newly formed branch in Salt Lake City.[5] He was temporarily lodging in Utah and working as a draftsman, while lecturing weekly at Theosophical meetings.[6]

Krotona Hollywood staff, Munsons at right

Krotona in Hollywood

In late 1912, he disposed of his Idaho property, including a ranch, and in early 1913 moved to Krotona in Hollywood.[7][8] As the local newspaper reported:

Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Munson will soon leave for Krotona, California, near Los Angeles. Mr. and Mrs. Munson are moving so as to be near the new headquarters of the Theosophical society. They are thoroughly devoted to the Theosophical cause and feel it their duty to take a move active part in the work at Krotona.[9]

He wrote articles for Theosophical periodicals, such as "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy"[10] He demitted to the Krotona Lodge in 1917.[11] Beginning in 1917, he served as treasurer of the national Society.[12]

During the Hollywood years of Krotona Institute of Theosophy, Eugene Munson helped to arrange activities for the many visitors:

It is becoming the custom for members of the Society living in nearby towns, to come to Krotona for their vacations. Here they may enjoy the soft climate of our Hollywood hills, pleasant even during the summer months, and attend the lectures of the krotona institute of Theosophy, as well as assist in the work in the offices. Weekly excursions to the beaches or mountains, arranged for by Mr. Eugene Munson, are indulged in by the visitors and students.

Mattie Munson also worked for the Institute as a printer and multigrapher. When the Besant Lodge of Krotona was established in October 1920 with 56 members, Eugene was a charter member and vice president, with Marie Poutz as president.[13] In 1922 he coordinated a national campaign to relieve hardships of Russian Theosophists, raising over $600.[14]

Annie Besant visit to Ojai on October 3, 1926. Munson in white.

Krotona in Ojai

Munson was instrumental in moving the Krotona Institute from Hollywood to Ojai, California. The Munsons were the first residents at the new Krotona, initially living in the Kerfoot Ranch House while supervising construction of the new buildings.[15] For many years he assisted George Hall in managing the estate.

Lecture tours

After Krotona had become established in Hollywood, Munson became more active in the national organization. George H. Hall, Manager of the Krotona Estate, wrote:

Later he entered the service of The Theosophical Society in America as a National Lecturer, and traveled throughout the United States lecturing and organizing study classes and lodges. He was one of the best lecturers for the Society and made many friends all over the country. It was from this work that I called him in 1923 to help me at Hollywood before we moved to Ojai. When we sold the Hollywood property, he and Mrs. Munson were the first to move to Ojai, and for nearly thirty years we have worked together to build the new Krotona in the Ojai Valley.[16]

During the years 1916-1922, Munson worked as a National Lecturer of the American Theosophical Society, touring for months on end. In the years 1919-1920, for example, he lectured in at least 50 cities of 19 states and Canada.[17] His presentations received excellent reviews from local newspapers. After speaking in Pueblo, Colorado, a reviewer wrote:

Mr. Munson has just competed a very successful course in Denver, speaking to capacity houses. He is a pleasant speaker and uses anecdotes, stereopticon and blackboard illustrations freely in demonstrating the more unfamiliar phases of his subject.

He appears practical and level-headed, being an engineer by profession.[18]

During the First World War, he often lectured about topics related to current events, such as an occult view of the war and the rebirth of those who died in wartime in his lecture "What Comes Out of the War;" "The Occult Relations of France, Great Britain, and the United State;" and "The New International Ship of State" [referring to the League of Nations].

Usually Munson spoke more directly about Theosophical subjects, using the stereopticon slides of thought forms and the astral body developed by C. W. Leadbeater. Titles included "How Many Lives Have You Lived?," "Do the Dead Return," "The Path of Achievement," "The Inner Gates of the Soul," and "The Science of the Borderland" [Theosophical explanations of spiritualistic experiences]. A reviewer in Great Falls, Montana, wrote of "The Hidden Side of Things":

In the course of his address, which was heard by a large gathering of interested men and women, Mr. Munson described how telepathy is possible, explained what thoughts are, showing them as tangible objects, with shape and color visible to the occult eye. Mr. Munson also dealt somewhat at length on the evolution of the soul toward perfection.

The lecture was the first of a series of four to be given here... The purpose of the lectures is to arouse interest in the science of theosophy with the idea of perfecting an organization in this city.[19]

In 1939, he assisted Marie Russak Hotchener, Marie Poutz, Henry Hotchener, and Eugene Wix in conducting a dedication of new lodge rooms at the Compton Lodge.[20] Munson had helped to organize that lodge.

Other activities

George Hall wrote:

In addition to his interest in Krotona and its activities, he took a keen interest in public affairs, and was always generous with his time and contributions to many outside interests. He did much to acquaint the people of the Valley with Krotona an to win for us the respect and friendliness of the community.[21]

Eugene Munson was a 32° Co-Mason.

Later years

Munson continued lecturing from time to time, and also spoke in live radio programs.[22] At the time of his death in 1952, Munson was a member of the Krotona Board of Trustees. He died on October 31, 1952 in Los Angeles.[23]

Notes

  1. ↑ 1926 Passenger list...........
  2. ↑ 1880 United States Federal Census.
  3. ↑ 1900 United States Federal Census.
  4. ↑ "A Roswell Wedding" Caldwell Tribune 29 (August 1, 1908): 2.
  5. ↑ "Salt Lake City" The Theosophic Messenger 11 no. 10 (July, 1910): 633.
  6. ↑ 1910 United States Federal Census.
  7. ↑ Caldwell Tribune 29 (December 20, 1912): 4.
  8. ↑ Caldwell Tribune 30 (January 10, 1913): 7.
  9. ↑ Caldwell Tribune 30 (January 3, 1913): 4.
  10. ↑ "Eugene W. Munson, "Tesla's Wireless Power and Mr. Leadbeater's Prophecy" The Messenger 3 no. 6 (November, 1915): 164-165.
  11. ↑ Membership Ledger Cards roll 5. Theosophical Society in America Archives.
  12. ↑ Eugene W. Munson. "Treasurer's Report" The Messenger Statistical Year Book supplement 5 no. 4 (September, 1917): 4.
  13. ↑ "Besant Lodge, Krotona" The Messenger 8 no. 7 (December, 1920): 577.
  14. ↑ "Relief of Russian Theosophist" The Messenger 10 no.1 (June, 1822): 12.
  15. ↑ Elena Doval Santos email to Janet Kerschner. August 20, 2023. Theosophical Society in America Archives.
  16. ↑ "Mr. Eugene W. Munson" The American Theosophist 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.
  17. ↑ See multiple references in The Canadian Theosophist 1 no. 1-4 (March-June 1920).
  18. ↑ "Lecture Course in Theosophy" Pueblo Chieftain (March 12, 1922): 6.
  19. ↑ "Theosophists Plan to Organize Here" Great Falls Daily Tribune (September 12, 1921): 9.
  20. ↑ "Compton Lodge Dedicates New Home" The American Theosophist 27 no.12 (December, 1939): 287.
  21. ↑ "Mr. Eugene W. Munson" The American Theosophist 40 no. 12 (December, 1952): 240.
  22. ↑ "San Buenaventura" The American Theosophist 37 no.5 (May, 159(: 101-102.
  23. ↑ 1952 California, U.S., Death Index, 1940-1997.
Retrieved from "https://theosophy.wiki/w-en/index.php?title=Janet_Kerschner/Sandbox&oldid=51445"