Inspiration Stump at Lily Dale

Inspiration Stump is one of the biggest draws for people when they visit Lily Dale, New York. This stump, located deep in Leolyn Woods, is the place where people commune with nature and if they're lucky, receive a spirit message from one of the practicing mediums. The mediums that give messages to the crowd at Inspiration Stump may hail from anywhere in the world, be young, or old, seasoned veterans or students giving messages for the first time. All they need to have is a desire to give someone a message from beyond that will heal a wounded soul and giving individuals hope that a loved one is doing well in the spirit world.

Inspiration Stump is exactly what it sounds like- one very large, old stump in the middle of Leolyn Woods (see photo). This stump has been where mediums have stood for over a century when they deliver messages from the spirit world. The stump stands resolute in front of benches that can accommodate approximately 300 people at one time. Mediums will deliver messages at the stump during Lily Dale's summer season twice daily, at no charge. However, it is important to note that the medium will pick you if they are guided to do so; you cannot raise your hand and ask to be given a message.

The stump has been a fixture in Lily Dale society since 1898. It is believed to be an energy vortex in the community. Participants in the message services report that they feel an unusual power when sitting in the clearing around the stump, and that they have clearer visions and are able to meditate or commune with spirits much more easily here than anywhere else.

Today, Inspiration Stump stands surrounded by a metal gate and is no longer stood upon during message services. It is treated with reverence and serves as a gentle reminder of the early days of Lily Dale. Mediums now stand in front of the stump and deliver their messages, often walking between the rows of benches and speaking directly with the intended recipients.