Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review - No 11

Magazine Overview

This issue of ASWR (Ancient Skills & Wisdom Review), edited and published by Paul Screeton, features a prominent article on "The Forbidden Theory of Mountain Uplift" by Paul Screeton himself, and a review of his own book, "Tales of the Hexham Heads." The magazine also includes a variety of book reviews covering topics such as cosmology, ancient mysteries, and paranormal phenomena.

The Forbidden Theory of Mountain Uplift

Paul Screeton introduces Dr. Charles Thomas Trechmann's controversial book, "A New Explanation of Mountain Uplift," published privately in 1955. Trechmann, who felt maligned by the academic establishment, proposed a theory based on "Lunar Gravitation and Oceanic Pressure." Screeton notes that Trechmann's work, written in his seventies, may find more allies as geological theories attacking uniformitarianism gain ground. Trechmann believed mountains are formed by gravitational uplift, with oceanic water exerting pressure. He felt snubbed by the British Association for the Advancement of Science, which accepted his paper for reading but gave him only 20 minutes and refused publication in its proceedings due to "lack of space."

Trechmann, who had private means, spent considerable time abroad, particularly in the Caribbean, conducting his own observations. He concluded that current theories were inadequate to explain geological phenomena. His theory posits that lunar and solar attraction draws up rock masses, aided by oceanic water pressure. He was critical of the "wandering continents" theory, calling it a "hoax."

Screeton mentions that Trechmann also listed publications that were self-funded because learned journals declined his papers, suggesting he felt like a "scientific martyr." Trechmann, an analytical chemist by training, developed his knowledge of geology through personal observation, studying submerged forests and flint fragments. He believed mountains rise continuously despite denudation forces, citing Jamaica's Blue Mountain Peak as an example of rising land. He also linked volcanic activity, like Vesuvius eruptions, to lunar cycles.

Trechmann's views on continental drift were dismissive, and he criticized astronomers for their theories. He sent papers to astronomical societies but received no acknowledgment, believing they were discarded. Despite this, he was not disillusioned and published his work privately.

Screeton highlights Trechmann's central thesis that mountain uplift is due to the upward pull of planets, assisted by changes below. Trechmann anticipated skepticism, noting that new theories are often initially rejected and later accepted as obvious.

Tales of the Hexham Heads

Paul Screeton's book, "Tales of the Hexham Heads," is reviewed by Kevin McClure. The book examines the case of two small carved Celtic-style heads discovered in Northumberland in 1972, which were associated with reports of apparitions and paranormal phenomena. Dr. Anne Ross, an expert in Celtic culture, initially judged the heads as genuine, but a later claim suggested they were manufactured toys in 1956. Petrological analyses were conducted, leading to confusion about the heads' origins and possessors.

Screeton's approach in the book is to analyze the components of the mystery rather than create a chronological narrative. He interviews key figures, including the boys who found the heads, Desmond Craigie (who claimed to have made them), Dr. Ross, and Don Robins, who uses the heads to support his "stone tape/playback" theory. The book also covers petrological analyses and historical context of the Celtic aspect. McClure notes that a section describing a meeting with Dom Robert Petitpierre feels out of place.

McClure finds the case fragmented but believes the apparitions are credible and associated with the heads. He suggests that such effects might stem from artifacts from the 1950s rather than ancient ones. He concludes that Screeton has collected relevant material on a case that is virtually unique and should be accessed by serious researchers.

A separate piece by John Billingsley also discusses the Hexham Heads, noting their association with the "Celtic" carved head phenomenon. He mentions reports of apparitions, including a werewolf, and the possibility of "image storage within stone." Billingsley suggests Screeton's book provides background on the "Strange Case of the Hexham Heads" prior to their disappearance.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• "SUBDUE THE EARTH" by Ralph Franklin Walworth and Geoffrey Walworth: This book challenges traditional physical geography and Wegener's theory of drifting continents, proposing that ice sheets and sea level changes better explain Earth's evolution, including the Biblical flood. It also examines Immanuel Velikovsky's theories and ancient astronaut claims, favoring Atlantis as reality. The authors argue that Earth is solid, not liquid, and that ice played a major role in mountain building. They also present a theory on oil and coal formation.

• "STORM ON THE SUN" by Joseph Goodavage: This book explores cosmology and scientific discoveries related to Earth, giving Velikovsky a hearing and proposing a rational theory for UFOs. It discusses hot weather cycles, wars, population explosions, and earthquakes. The review notes that while the title suggests a focus on solar phenomena, the book ranges widely and includes discussions on Nikola Tesla, Velikovsky, and ancient astronauts, which the reviewer suspects were included to boost sales.

• "ALIEN ANIMALS" by Janet & Colin Bord: This book examines reports of alien animals, arguing for their reality and questioning conventional views on animal distribution and psychic components. It covers various phenomena, including big hairy monsters and a "naked black woman like a bat." The authors are critical of academics who dismiss such reports and highlight cases where cameras jammed or material disappeared, suggesting a psychic mechanism. The book also discusses phantom felines, black dogs, giant birds, and "mothmen."

• "SIGNS OF THE GODS" by Erich von Daniken: The review criticizes von Daniken's claims about extraterrestrial giants and their role in constructing megalithic sites, calling his explanations "ludicrous." It notes his theories on the Ark of the Covenant and the Three Mile Island incident. The reviewer suggests that von Daniken's work relies on speculation and fails to acknowledge indigenous cultures' capabilities.

• "SECRETS OF THE LOST RACES" by Rene Noorbergen: Noorbergen argues that the "Genesis" account supports a global flood and the recreation of civilization. He supports biblical documentation and discusses "ooparts" (out-of-place discoveries), including the Piri Reis Map, Salzburg cube, and Baghdad Battery. The review points out inaccuracies in Noorbergen's research, such as misrepresenting names and details.

• "LOST SURVIVORS OF THE DELUGE" by Gerd von Hassler: Von Hassler argues for a worldwide flood and focuses on the "Epic of Gilgamesh" rather than "Genesis" to support his global catastrophe theory. He proposes a sailing ship for Noah.

• "THE ESSENTIAL T.C. LETHBRIDGE" edited by Tom Graves & Janet Hoult: This compendium of Lethbridge's work covers his ideas on archaeology, dowsing, and parapsychology. Lethbridge, a maverick archaeologist, explored topics like the Gog Magog hill figures, ghosts, evolution, and extraterrestrial interbreeding. The reviewer notes Lethbridge's influence and his critical approach to academic colleagues.

• "THE LEY HUNTER" Q: This magazine covers earth mysteries, including astrology, ley lines, and local folklore. It features articles on geomancy, archaeoastronomy, and reviews of publications.

• "NORTHERN EARTH MYSTERIES" This newsletter focuses on North Yorkshire Moors, earth mysteries, dragon legends, and geomancy. It includes articles on barrows, stone circles, and energy forms.

• "EARTH ENERGY" Newsletter: Dedicated to restoring the "Ancient Golden Age," this newsletter discusses past cataclysms, psychic civilizations, electricity, and leys.

• "JOURNAL OF GEOMANCY" Q: This journal features articles on geomancy, ley hunting, and Arthurian legends, including discussions on energy systems and ancient technologies.

• "PENDRAGON" Journal: This journal explores Arthurian legends and British mythical traditions, featuring essays on Arthur's historical accounts, imagination, and symbolism. It also covers topics like ancient sites, war-gaming, and the raven myth.

• "LANTERN" This magazine focuses on East Anglian mysteries, including folklore, UFO reports, and local curiosities.

• "NEARA JOURNAL" This journal covers New England antiquities, history, and prehistoric past, with articles on Mystery Hill, megalithic culture, and archaeological findings.

• "LINCOLNSHIRE DRAGON" Q: This newsletter covers Lincolnshire Earth Mysteries, including sacred geometry, UFOs, and dragon legends.

• "THE NEW CELTIC REVIEW" This publication features articles on Brigid, mazes, ogham calendar, ancient London, fungi, and Breton harps.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around alternative theories in geology, archaeology, and cosmology, often challenging mainstream scientific consensus. There is a strong emphasis on earth mysteries, ancient civilizations, and paranormal phenomena, including UFOs and unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to favor independent scholarship and critical examination of established ideas, as evidenced by the positive reception of Trechmann's controversial theory and the detailed reviews of books that explore unconventional perspectives. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in Fortean phenomena and the fringes of scientific and historical inquiry.

This issue of ANARCHISM, identified as Volume 10 and Issue 12, presents a collection of articles and reviews centered around themes of anarchism, occultism, earth mysteries, and historical/cultural studies. The cover prominently features the title "ANARCHISM" with the subtitle "TOWARDS A CITIZENS' MILITIA" by ERSM (Cienfuegos Press), suggesting a focus on political and societal structures.

Content Analysis

The issue begins with a discussion of the Tarot and its connection to shamanistic practices and the expansion of consciousness, referencing an author named Drury. Drury's work is described as exploring the implications of archetypal levels for a magician's certainty and the nature of surreal art, which he equates to contemporary magic that leads to new combinations of images and symbols in "inner space."

Further content delves into earth mysteries and ancient civilizations, with a mention of Wilfried Satty's work on archetypes. The author notes that while Drury's writing can sometimes be dry, akin to physics textbooks, his insights are valuable and suggest that his work is not mere armchair speculation. The discussion touches upon Darwinian-style evolution and its relation to archetypal modes, suggesting a need for clarification.

The magazine then shifts to reviewing other publications. "QUEST" magazine is described as a publication of practical occultism, with recent issues covering topics like spring ritual, the Dark Goddess, the Tree of Life, Bach flower remedies, and various pagan traditions. "THE CAUIDRON" is reviewed as a magazine featuring short articles on subjects including GogMagog hill figures, the film "The Wicker Man," Wiccan traditions, and an international issue with news from various countries.

"OCCULT WORLD" is briefly mentioned as a publication focusing on pagan cooperation in the New Age, with articles on clairvoyance, the power of the goddess, creation myth, and tarot.

The book "ANARCHISM: TOWARDS A CITIZENS' MILITIA" by ERSM is critically reviewed. The reviewer finds the book "nasty" not due to its content but because its necessity seems to loom large, reflecting a fear of potential political manipulation. The reviewer acknowledges the authors' vindication regarding resistance movements but questions the book's legitimacy and suggests more pressing concerns like surveillance and tighter law and order. The book's referral to the Director of Public Prosecutions is noted as a sign of paranoia.

"ANARCHIST REVIEW," published by The Cienfuegos Press, is praised for its libertarian perspective, though the reviewer criticizes an article by Henri Simon for intellectualizing elite workers and ignoring human nature. Another article by John Sladek on "Occult Authoritarianism" is also deemed to make incorrect assumptions. More instructive articles on modern Bulgaria, private broadcasting, and book reviews are highlighted.

"THE STRUGGLE TO BE HUMAN" by L. Tifft and D. Sullivan is reviewed in the context of the legal system and the limitations of penal institutions. The book explores the anarchist's dilemma regarding crime and criminology, questioning the state's grip and examining who commits real crimes.

"TUNNELS UNDER LONDON" by Nigel Pennick is discussed as a work that builds on Peter Laurie's study of the city's subterranean elements. Pennick's book is noted for its detailed history of London's underground transport systems, including postal mail transportation and other tunneling projects, and its approach to demythologizing aspects of the study. The reviewer recommends reading it alongside Laurie's "City Beneath the Streets."

Several other publications are listed under "STOP PRESS": "ANCIENT MYSTERIES" (formerly "JOURNAL OF GEOMANCY"), "STONEHENGE VIEWPOINT," and "ORKNEY GEOMANCY" by John Fraser. Nigel Pennick is also credited with "THE INDESTRUCTIBLE CASTLE," an essay on paganism.

A special "John Michell number" of "A.S.W.R." is announced, promising reviews of books associated with him and sections on ufology and psychology.

"PROPHECY" by Nigel Pennick and Sheila Cann is reviewed, focusing on the Yorkshire seeress Mother Shipton. The review explores conjectures about her parentage, her abilities to foretell the future, and the possibility that one of her prophecies refers to a Communist uprising in Britain.

"LECTURES ON THE I CHING" by Richard Wilhelm is presented as a significant work offering insights into the "Book of Changes" and its relevance to contemporary psychology, particularly the Jungian mode. The reviewer notes its importance for understanding this ancient branch of wisdom but finds the price excessive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include anarchism and its political implications, the exploration of occult and esoteric knowledge (Tarot, prophecy, geomancy, I Ching), and the study of earth mysteries and ancient civilizations. There is also a strong emphasis on book and magazine reviews, providing commentary on a wide range of related publications. The editorial stance appears to be critical and analytical, engaging with the material presented in the reviewed works while offering independent perspectives on their content and relevance. The issue seems to cater to an audience interested in alternative perspectives on society, history, consciousness, and the paranormal.