Nick Richbell, PhD
Official Dr. Spooky
Archivist, Historian, Author
Exploring Spiritualism, Archives, and Modern Belief
Latest Book Project
Silver Birch’s Medium is a a vivid, deeply researched portrait of Maurice Barbanell, the journalist‑turned‑medium whose voice helped shape twentieth‑century Spiritualism. Drawing on years of dedicated research, archivist and historian Nick Richbell reconstructs Barbanell’s journey from East London idealist to the steady hand behind Psychic News and the earthly channel for Silver Birch. Despite his profound influence, Maurice Barbanell has remained an overlooked figure in the development of Modern Spiritualism.
Podcast and media appearances
I speak about archives, Modern Spiritualism, and historical research on podcasts and in public conversations.
Hidden History Chronicles - Maurice Barbanell's Life And Legacy In Spiritualism
Hidden History Chronicles - Voices From Beyond: Inside Thomas Lacey's Séances
About Me
I am Head of Special Collections and Archives at Clemson University, where I oversee rare books, manuscripts, and institutional records. My research explores spiritualism, media, and belief in the modern period, with a particular interest in how archives preserve and shape contested histories. I am currently working on a book about Maurice Barbanell and his influence on twentieth-century spiritualism.