Witchking of America

 High Priest 

By Jason Mankey

Raymond Buckland is the "father of American witchcraft," credited with single-handedly spreading Wicca and witchcraft across the United States. Born in London in 1934 to an English mother and a Romani-heritage father, he developed early passions for theater from his father and spiritualism from his Romani aunt. After relocating to New York to work for the British Overseas Airways Corporation, his interest in spiritualism led him to Gerald Gardner's book Witchcraft Today. Buckland contacted Gardner's museum, which put him in touch with the Wilsons, who initiated him into the craft during an era of rigid male/female binaries, rapid elevations, and immense pressure to recruit.

As a major innovator, Buckland transformed modern witchcraft by introducing new concepts that made the craft more accessible. He co-created the "Outer Court," allowing prospective witches to practice a simplified version of the craft prior to formal initiation, with Ed Fitch later writing its material. He also founded Seax-Wicca, a Saxon-themed tradition based on the old Norse god that completely eliminated formal rankings and allowed anyone to practice without a traditional initiation. Additionally, Buckland published books on Romani witchcraft that introduced the wider public to Romani culture, magic, and entertainment before his death.