Chesterfield in Madison County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

The Sunflower – A Symbol of Spiritualism

— Camp Chesterfield —

Photographed by Duane and Tracy Marsteller, August 5, 2023

1. The Sunflower – A Symbol of Spiritualism Marker

Inscription. Since around 1892, the sunflower has been an important symbol of Spiritualism. Throughout Camp Chesterfield, visitors notice how homes and buildings are often decorated with sunflower motifs. This is because of its strong connection to Spiritualism. The sunflower is native to the United States, but has been transplanted all over the world, just like Spiritualism. In 1948, Spiritualism was recognized as a religion in 38 nations, making it one of three American-made religions to be exported, rather than imported to, the United States. The motto for Spiritualism is:

As the Sunflower turns its
face to the Light of the Sun –
So let Spiritualism turn the face
of humanity to the Light of the Truth
Since the sunflowers always turns toward the sun, so do Spiritualists turn toward the light of God. A sturdy and [hardy] plant, the sunflower has a strong central stalk that is well-grounded to hold it up straight and tall and it is a rich source of minerals and vitamins. Spiritualism, as well, stresses having a strong character, in tandem with both physical and spiritual healing.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1948.

Location. 40° 6.935′ N, 85° 35.824′ W.

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Marker is in Chesterfield, Indiana, in Madison County. It is at the intersection of North Washington Street and Lincoln Drive, on the right when traveling south on North Washington Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 51 Lincoln Dr, Anderson IN 46017, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Central Indiana

and specifically in Greater Indianapolis.

It is also in the American Midwest

and in the Corn Belt.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture

and also the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The Sunflower Hotel (here, next to this marker); Founders Rock (within shouting distance of this marker); Camp Chesterfield (within shouting distance of this marker); The Old Wooden Dining Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); The Chapel in the Woods (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Western Hotel (about 300 feet away); Dr. J.E. Hett Art Gallery (about 300 feet away); Trail of Religion (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chesterfield.

Photographed by Duane and Tracy Marsteller, August 5, 2023

2. The Sunflower – A Symbol of Spiritualism Marker

Featured marker is to the right of the steps.

Credits. This page was last revised on August 24, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 24, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 766 times since then and 124 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 24, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.