Founded in 1885, the American Society for Psychical Research (ASPR) was created to investigate claims of psychic phenomena, mediumship, and spiritual experiences within the United States. Modeled after its British counterpart, the Society brought together academics, physicians, psychologists, and researchers interested in applying systematic study to extraordinary claims.

The ASPR examined séance phenomena, trance states, apparitions, and telepathic experiences, documenting both supportive findings and evidence of fraud. Its work reflected a growing effort to understand Spiritualism through scientific and psychological frameworks, marking an important chapter in the history of paranormal research in America.