

Maurice Barbanell: The Forgotten Architect of Modern Spiritualism With Dr Nick Richbell
How does someone shape an entire movement... and yet almost disappear from history? If you've explored Spiritualism, the paranormal or psychical research, you've almost certainly encountered the legacy of Maurice Barbanell—even if you've never recognised his name. In this episode, historian Dr Nick Richbell joins me to discuss his new book, Silver Birch's Medium, and the extraordinary life of the man behind one of the most influential voices in twentieth-century Spiritualism. We explore Barbanell's remarkable journey from sceptic to believer, his role as the medium for Silver Birch, his decades editing Psychic News, his investigations into mediumship, his legal battles, and the lasting influence he had on Spiritualism in Britain and beyond. But this conversation is about much more than one historical figure. Together we ask how belief is formed, what people consider to be evidence, how personal experience shapes conviction, and why these questions remain just as relevant today. From science and religion to media, authority and public trust, Maurice Barbanell's story offers a fascinating window into the way people negotiate extraordinary claims in the modern world. My Special Guest Is Dr Nick Richbell: Dr. Nick Richbell received his PhD in History from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada. His research focuses on the history of Spiritualism, and his doctoral dissertation examined the life and influence of the medium Maurice Barbanell and his spirit guide, Silver Birch. While Silver Birch's teachings continue to be discussed in Spiritualist churches today, Maurice Barbanell's significant contributions are often overlooked. Barbanell devoted more than six decades to the Spiritualist movement, and Nick’s research seeks to restore his place in history as one of the twentieth century's most influential advocates of Spiritualism. Nick recently completed his book, Silver Birch’s Medium: Maurice Barbanell & Twentieth-Century Spiritualism, scheduled for publication on September 10, 2026. Based on his doctoral research, the book expands on his dissertation with previously unpublished photographs, two new chapters, and substantial revisions incorporating newly discovered archival material. As a Spiritualist himself, Nick embraces the movement's principle of thoughtful inquiry: to question what one reads and hears, and to accept only what resonates through personal experience and reflection. If you value this podcast and want to enjoy more episodes please come and find us on https://www.patreon.com/Haunted_History_Chronicles to support the podcast, gain a wealth of additional exclusive podcasts, writing and other content. Links to all Haunted History Chronicles Social Media Pages, Published Materials and more: https://linktr.ee/hauntedhistorychronicles?fbclid=IwAR15rJF2m9nJ0HTXm27HZ3QQ2Llz46E0UpdWv-zePVn9Oj9Q8rdYaZsR74I NEW Podcast Shop: https://www.teepublic.com/user/haunted-history-chronicles Buy Me A Coffee https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhistorychronicles Guest Links: https://www.drspooky.com/ https://www.instagram.com/officialdrspooky/


















