Item Details
George J. McCormack Astrology Journals.
New York: 1917-1919. Unique MSS. Cloth. George J. McCormack (1887-1974) was an American astrologer who first became interested in astrology in 1906, becoming one of the leading figures in American astrology. He had, as well, a fulltime career in the engineering department of the New York Bell Telephone Company. "Gee-Jay," as he was known, would ultimately specialize in astrometeorology, financial and the mundane. With a gift for organization, he co-founded the American Academy of Astrologers in 1916 and various other groups. He served as the Vice President of AFA in 1940, and the President in 1941 and 1942. From 1933-1941, he published and edited "Astrotech Weekly." McCormack consulted as a professional astrologer at Jersey City Heights from 1935-1939 and then moved to Fairlawn, New Jersey. Throughout the latter half of his life, he was considered to be a leading authority in his field, astrometeorology. Inspired by the astrometeorological work of A.J. Pearce (1840-1923), McCormack meticulously tracked and recorded the weather, from before World War I, until his death more than half a century later. In 1947, after 23 years of research, he published his "key" to long-range weather forecasting, being this book. Confident of his ability, in the spring of 1947 McCormack predicted one of the most severe winters in decades, specifically forecasting the infamous snows of December 26, 1947. The weather bureau predicts the weather, day by day, by careful observation of current conditions. In 1963, before the US Weather Bureau, and again in 1964, before the American Meteorological Society, McCormack presented his life's work.
Collection includes three notebooks: "Choice Astrological Aphorisms," with Hebrew star; "Notebook," with handpainted natal chart and decorative design; and "Horoscopes," with natal chart and Mercury planetary symbol.
The Aphorisms notebooks discusses the classic observations and euphemisms of astrology from "old authors" for adept astrologers to consider in prognostication. Most likely from Alfred J. Pearce.
The "Notebook" calculates the basic of corresponding prediction using planetary rulers, indicated with diagrams and illustrations. He begins his study with heliocentric observations and key instances, like predicting the cost of wheat on the Chicago Board of Trade. Also discusses Civil War and correspondences, earthquake predictions, and other meteorology events. This notebook appears to be the early and developing study that determined McCormack's skill and recognition. Also laid in is a copy of "Instructions How to Cast the Progressed Horoscope at a Glance" pamphlet.
The final notebook, "Horoscopes" illustrates examples of charts of substantial events and persons, including President Woodrow Wilson, President Theodore Roosevelt, W.R. Hearst, the founding of the American Academy of Astrologians founding in 1916, and World War I. Various clippings are laid in, as well as, a large fold out incomplete handwritten horoscope chart. Very few astrology working notebooks exist, particularly in the US during this period, at beginning of the Occult Revival and beginning of the validation of astrology as a science. Scarce in any format. Very Good+. Scuffing, discoloration and transfers, minimal and moderate wear to extremities, otherwise tight, bright, and unmarred. Three cloth bound notebooks with handpainted boards with black and gold, blue edging. Partially filled. Small 8vo. Varies pg. Illus. (b/w, color). Item #12312
Price: $5,500.00