The Order of Taarna

In this era of mysticism and searching for ancient knowledge as a pastime, the so-called "Order of Taarna" is a prime example of societies at times devoted to such undertakings. The creation of the order was result of the well-known Arkham author Ella B. Cocker being introduced by attorney James E. Biron to Helena Roerich in New York, and Ms. Cocker invited Mrs. Roerich to hang some of her husband's work in Arkham back in 1921. The exhibition was a great success, and Nicholas Roerich himself came to Arkham to New England to introduce his art and spiritual vision. Several Arkhamites displayed further interest to study various aspects of mystery and culture, and Ms. Cocker held the first meeting of the Order of Taarna (brazenly named after the heroine in one of her own novels, A Madame of Jade) on All Hallow's Eve of 1921.

The Order of Taarna meets every month in the separate dining room of the Metropolitan Restaurant, usually to listen to a presentation from one of the members of the order and to enjoy a fine dinner, which includes a percentage of the hefty price to support fine or alternative art in New England and Arkham in particular.

Nicolas Roerich's painting We are Not Afraid.