W. L. Alden

W. L. Alden was an American editorial writer who was present at the founding of the Theosophical Society in September, 1875. According to historian Josephine Ransom:

Editorial Writer on the New York Times, and of great repute for caustic and humorous criticisms upon current topics. He later held important Consular appointments under the American Government. He did not seem to last very long as a member, and in 1881 said he had been dragged into The Society, and cared nothing for it. He ridiculed The Society in the newspapers and in one article referred to the Founders as "Dead-heads." These articles were reprinted in some Ceylon papers during Col. Olcott's second visit in 1881.