Leaf, Walter (1852-1927)
Leaf, Walter (1852-1927)
Classical scholar, banker, and pioneer of psychical research in Britain. He was born November 28, 1852, in London, England, and was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge (B.A., 1874; M.A., 1877). Leaf became a successful banker and retained an amateur interest in classical studies. His banking leadership was acknowledged by his being elected president of the Institute of Bankers (1919-21) and later president of the International Chambers of Commerce (1924-26). He was also president of the Hellenic Society (1914-19), president of the Classical Association (1921), and an honorary fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge.
Leaf was also an active member of the Society for Psychical Research (SPR), London, and served a tenure on the council (1889-1902). He took part in the SPR sittings with the medium Leonora Piper in 1889-90 and frequently contributed to the Journal and the Proceedings of the SPR. He died March 8, 1927.
Sources:
Berger, Arthur S., and Joyce Berger. The Encyclopedia of Parapsychology and Psychical Research. New York: Paragon House, 1991.
Pleasants, Helene, ed. Biographical Dictionary of Parapsychology. New York: Helix Press, 1964.