Charles Webster Leadbeater

British Theosophist and writer (1854–1934) Charles Webster LeadbeaterLeadbeater in 1914 (age 60)Born(1854-02-16)16 February 1854Stockport, Cheshire, EnglandDied1 March 1934(1934-03-01) (aged 80)Perth, AustraliaKnown forTheosophist and writer Charles Webster Leadbeater (/ˈlɛdˌbɛtər/; 16 February 1854 – 1 March 1934) was a member of the Theosophical Society, Co-Freemasonry, an author on occult subjects, and the co-initiator, with J. I. Wedgwood, of the Liberal Catholic Church. Originally a priest of the Church of England, his interest in spiritualism caused him to end his affiliation with Anglicanism in favour of the Theosophical Society, where he became an associate of Annie Besant. He became a high-ranking officer of the Society and remained one of its leading members until his death in 1934, writing over 60 books and pamphlets and maintaining regular speaking engagements. Early life Leadbeater was born in Stockport, Cheshire, in 1854. His father, Charles, was born in Lincoln and his mother Emma was born in Liverpool. He was an only child. By 1861, the family had relocated to London, where his father was a railway contractor's clerk.[non-primary source needed] In 1862, whe