An American occultist and ceremonial magician who played a significant role in the development of modern witchcraft, particularly in the Wiccan tradition.
Sara Northrup Hollister is renowned for her pivotal role in the creation of Dianetics, a self-help system that later evolved into the religious movement of Scientology. As the second wife of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, Hollister played a crucial part in shaping the early days of Dianetics, working closely with Hubbard to develop the principles and techniques that would become the foundation of the movement.
Born on April 8, 1924, Hollister was drawn to the world of occultism from a young age. She joined the Pasadena branch of the Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.), a secret society led by the infamous English occultist Aleister Crowley, where she was known as Soror Cassap. Her older sister, Helen, was also a member of the O.T.O.
Hollister's life was marked by several tumultuous relationships. Between 1941 and 1945, she was involved with John Whiteside Parsons, a pioneer in solid-fuel rocketry and the head of the Pasadena O.T.O. However, her behavior was deemed disruptive by Crowley, who denounced her as a "vampire."
In 1945, Hollister met L. Ron Hubbard through the O.T.O. and began a romantic relationship with him. The two eloped, taking a substantial amount of Parsons' life savings with them. They married bigamously a year later, while Hubbard was still married to his first wife, Margaret Grubb.
Between 1948 and 1951, Hollister played a significant role in the development of Dianetics, working closely with Hubbard to establish the principles and techniques of the system. She served as Hubbard's personal auditor and was one of the seven members of the Dianetics Foundations Board of Directors.
Despite her contributions to Dianetics, Hollister's marriage to Hubbard was marred by domestic violence and turmoil. Hubbard kidnapped both Hollister and their infant daughter, and disseminated false allegations that she was a Communist secret agent, denouncing her to the FBI. The FBI, however, declined to take any action, characterizing Hubbard as a "mental case."
The marriage ended in 1951, prompting sensational headlines in the Los Angeles newspapers. Hollister later married Miles Hollister, a former employee of Hubbard's, and moved to Hawaii.
Hollister's influence on the development of Dianetics and Scientology cannot be overstated. Her work with Hubbard laid the groundwork for the movement, which would go on to attract millions of followers worldwide. Despite the tumultuous nature of her relationship with Hubbard, Hollister's contributions to the early days of Dianetics remain a testament to her passion and dedication to the occult and self-help.
Born in 1875
A renowned occultist and mystic who wrote extensively on magic, mysticism, and thelema, and is often associated with the phrase "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law."
Born in 1914
A pioneer in rocket propulsion and occult practices, blending science and mysticism to push boundaries in both fields. Known for his contributions to jet propulsion and his unconventional spiritual pursuits.
Born in 1911
Creator of the self-help religion Scientology, known for his science fiction writings and controversial teachings on spirituality and personal development.
78 Years Old
Australia's first female Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, she played a crucial role in shaping the country's defence policies and initiatives. She's also recognized for her contributions to education, particularly in the area of vocational training.