Lodge History

'Astrology is no mere system of fortune telling, but a Universal Philosophy. The object of the Lodge is to form a strong body of earnest students, able to promulgate ASTROLOGICAL TRUTH. In this work we bespeak the help of every serious student, each according to his or her capacity'.

- Charles Carter

The Astrological Lodge of London was born when the astrologer Alan Leo, with the agreement of his wife Bessie, proposed that a London branch of the Theosophical Society should be set up to amalgamate the study of astrology and theosophy. This was on 13th July, 1915. The first meeting took place on 13th September, 1915 with Bessie Leo as President.

Now, The Astrological Lodge of London (A.L.L.) rents rooms for their Monday meetings from the Theosophical Society in their fine 18th century house at 50 Gloucester Place, London W1, but the A.L.L. is an independent body. Its work is the study of astrology in all its branches and 'from the highest point of view', as its constitution says, with attention to the spiritual, historical and philosophical aspects of the subject.

After the First World War Charles Carter, author of many books on astrology still in print, returned from service in the army and was elected President on 23rd January 1922. Thereafter the A.L.L. became more distinctly astrological, rather than theosophical, in emphasis.

In 1926 'Astrology' began publication with Charles Carter as editor. As the organ of the A.L.L. it has maintained high standards ever since. With contributions from members and others, it is a forum for discussion in the astrological community. It later changed its name to Astrology Quarterly. The Quarterly is free to members and is available generally from Midheaven Bookshop and from Watkins Books.

The Faculty of Astrological Studies was founded on 7th June 1948 as an offshoot of our society, becoming independent in 1954. Charles Carter and Margaret Hone were its moving spirits. The Astrological Association of Great Britain (A.A.) was yet another offspring; it started its independent life from 21st June, 1958.

It is often said that the A.L.L. has the status of parent or grandparent in the astrological community. It also has members in many parts of the world and speakers come from far and wide.