February 12, 1964, marks the date of Gerald Gardner’s death, recognized as the “father of contemporary witchcraft.” He died while at sea, making his way back from Lebanon.
Gerald Gardner is credited as the founder of modern Wicca. His influence is such that anyone, from a novice to an experienced practitioner, knows something about him and what he offered. He wrote the influential books: Witchcraft Today and The Meaning of Witchcraft. These two works served as the foundation for the evolution of various traditions within modern Wicca across the globe.
Gerald Gardner was a visionary. He was unconventional and unafraid to explore new ideas. He stood out in his time, driven by a desire for Wicca to endure. Let’s delve into the past to learn more about the person who believed in the vital importance of Wicca’s survival.
Early Life
Gerald Gardner’s early years were quite ordinary, despite his affluent upbringing. His family sent him to Madeira in 1884 to help with his asthma. Upon his return to England in 1936, he developed a keen interest in history and archaeology. Additionally, he was captivated by the local culture, including its religious and magical traditions, with a particular enthusiasm for ritual knives and daggers.
Gardner served as a civil servant in the British government, starting as a rubber plantation inspector and later as a customs official. The income he generated from his rubber dealings allowed him to pursue his passions, especially archaeology.
The Journey To Wicca
In 1947, Arnold Crowther connected Gardner with Aleister Crowley, a member of one of Old George Pickingill’s original New Forest Coven. Gardner was initiated into Crowley’s Ordo Templi Orientis. Over time, Gardner became knowledgeable in Folklore, Witchcraft, and Magic. He also amassed artifacts and information regarding magical practices and ceremonial magic. Determined to document his findings, he faced challenges since Witchcraft was illegal in England at that time. Under advice, he chose to keep his research private and refrain from publishing anything about Witchcraft and Magic.
The Solitary Practitioner Bundle from The Moonlight Shop
Eventually, Gardner chose to express his insights in the form of a novel titled “High Magic’s Aid.” This work outlines the fundamental concepts that would lead to the development of “Gardnerian Wicca.”
Gardnerian Wicca
In 1951, public interest in the Old Religion saw a resurgence. Repeal of the last outdated witchcraft laws was underway in England. Gardner believed it was finally time to make his beliefs public and leave the New Forest coven. He began to formulate his own Wiccan practice and started writing his own texts. Gardner drew from various influences, including other magical orders, Freemasonry, fellow practitioners, and, of course, Aleister Crowley.
A scrutinized figure
Throughout his life, many viewed Gerald Gardner as a deceitful and manipulative individual with a tendency toward exaggeration and ritual nudity. Numerous practitioners of witchcraft disapproved of Gardner’s decision to reveal what they believed should remain concealed. Others feared that such exposure could negatively impact the craft. His obvious desire for attention and publicity strained his relationships with members of his own coven, leading to many distancing themselves from him.
Download the free “How to cast a circle” guide!
Regardless of how one perceives him, Gerald Gardner’s impact remains undeniable. Few Wiccans have achieved such prominence. He is still recognized as one of the most respected, albeit contentious, figures in the Wiccan community. By the time of his passing in 1964, Gardnerian Wicca had expanded across the globe.
I was initiated Gardnerian and found it a great basic foundation for developing my own path. Once you have the basics down you can go anywhere.
That’s awesome, Rick! We are honored to have you here. 🙂 Blessed be!