Annals of the Enquiring - 1991 Vol 2 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: Annals Of The Enquiring
Issue: Vol 2.3
Date: May/June 1991
Publisher: Annals Of The Enquiring
Country: UK
Price: £1.25

This issue of "Annals Of The Enquiring" is a bi-monthly publication focusing on UFOs, Forteana, the paranormal, and earth mysteries. The cover features a striking illustration of a "Shadow Clock," an ancient solar method of measuring time using an obelisk and its shadow, alongside a list of featured articles.

Editor and Correspondence

"Ed's Mouth" by Gerry Lovell addresses a peculiar letter received in April concerning "secret" government communications research that purportedly led to the creation of crop circles. The writer claimed the project's initials formed the word CORN and mentioned "warbling" or "trilling" noises associated with these sites. Lovell expresses skepticism, viewing the letter's terminology as pseudo-technical and lacking credibility, and seeks reader input on similar information.

"Et Take Note" provides practical information regarding British Telecom's 0898 telephone numbers, warning that they are charged at standard rates. It also mentions Quest's 24-hour UFO Hotline, noting its charging structure and its function as a service for logging sighting reports and providing assistance.

Featured Articles

"Electronic Telegraph Of The Ancients" by Martin Steele

This article investigates the theory that ancient South American civilizations, specifically the Amazonian Indians, may have utilized an electronic jungle telegraph system. The "Cambarysú telegraph," reportedly used by the Cotuquinari Indians, is described as employing an electro-magnetic field and a magnetic beam to transmit inaudible messages up to two miles. The instrument is detailed, involving a round hole, layers of sand, wood, and mica, and a hard rubber diaphragm. The author references historical accounts from Dr. Jose Bach and Col. George Earl Church, who noted the sophistication of this primitive communication method.

"Crosses Count For Nought" by Stuart Benson

This piece, referencing Charles Pooley's 1877 book "Old Crosses of Somerset," discusses over 200 crosses erected in Somerset, many of which were demolished between 1790 and 1860. Pooley meticulously recorded their locations and styles, including churchyard crosses and village crosses. The article notes that early stone crosses were simple shafts set into the ground, later evolving into more elaborate structures.

"Eastern Influence On Stone Circles" by Stuart Benson

This article proposes that the standard measurement used in the erection of stone circles, such as those at Stanton Drew, may have been derived from an Eastern source, specifically the Oriental standard of 12.16 inches. The author analyzes the layout of the Stanton Drew circles, suggesting a perfect symmetry and a mathematical design related to astronomy. The numbers 30 and 12 are linked to the lunar month and the solar year, respectively. The article posits that the circles represent the Sun, Moon, and Venus, with the eight-stone circle corresponding to Venus. It also touches upon the ancient Celtic eight-day week and its connection to the planets.

"Eric's File Of Amazing Facts!"

This section presents a series of trivia facts, including the speed of neutrinos, a 1254 report of a colored ship seen by monks at St. Albans, the Viking voyages to North America facilitated by warmer weather between AD 1000-1200, and a large hailstone that fell in Coffeyville, Kansas in 1970.

"UFO Detectors Are Back" by Ron Brice

This article explores various types of UFO detectors, suggesting that while many 70s detectors were simple compass needles, more advanced methods could include electromagnetic, magnetostatic, and atomic particle detectors. The author discusses the possibility of using a sensitive AC amp meter with a high-impedance coil and a soft iron core, or a pendulum for detecting subtle changes in gravitation. Very Low Frequency (VLF) radio is also proposed as a potential detection method, particularly in rural locations.

"It Takes A Lot To Shock Me"

This personal account details three incidents involving electricity where the author experienced no shock despite apparent danger. The first involved fixing a lamp plug, the second a metal hair clip in a power socket, and the third a loose twin cable on a lamp. The author questions his own immunity to electrical shock.

"Monster Hunt Of The Century"

This is an advertisement for Col. Fanshawe's safari in 1935 to Lake Wattawalley, Africa, offering the chance to hunt African Dinosaurs. It provides contact information for Messrs Trackit, Bashit & Stuffit in Edinburgh.

"The Celestial Psychologist" by Anthony North

This column explores the concept of astrology and its relationship to human psychology. The author discusses the idea of "synchronicity" as proposed by Carl Jung and questions the validity of daily horoscopes, suggesting that people tend to find what they want to see. The article also touches upon the "dark side" of belief systems, such as Voodoo, and the concept of "vegal inhibition" as a cause of death.

"Vibrations, Power Sites & Quartz Crystal (Conc.)"

This article continues the discussion on ancient power sites, suggesting a link between Arthurian legends, the Great Bear constellation, and a power system based on polar magnetism. It posits that ancient power sites may have been used by alien spacecraft for recharging magnetic power units. The role of quartz crystal in modern technology, such as atomic timepieces and lasers, is highlighted, along with its potential in developing propulsion methods for UFOs. The article also mentions the mystical practice of 'crystal gazing.'

"The Witch of Wall Street" by GL

This biographical piece recounts the life of Henrietta "Hetty" Howland Robinson Green, an extremely wealthy and notoriously thrifty American woman from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It details her business acumen, her frugal lifestyle, and her impact on her children, particularly her son Ned, whose leg was amputated due to her refusal to pay for proper medical treatment.

"From My Frog Files"

This section presents anecdotal reports of frog showers occurring during thunderstorms in the UK in 1845 and 1850, with one report mentioning hundreds of thousands of small frogs and another describing tadpoles covering a road.

"Charles Fort Speak"

This section features quotes attributed to Charles Fort, including "Witchcraft always has a hard time until it becomes established and changes its name" and "If it's plausible, accept it at least temporarily..." Another quote states, "nothing is of itself complete but is part of a continuous operation..." and "Science has done its utmost to prevent whatever science has done."

"Rosicrucians Run Like Clockwork"

This article recounts the story of Christian Rosencreutz and the discovery of his illuminated vault, which contained a brass statue with a clockwork mechanism designed to activate upon intrusion. The author suggests this was a demonstration of an "ever-burning lamp" invented by Rosencreutz.

"Even Mice Can Take The Mickey" by Gerry Lovell

This piece shares anecdotes of mice exhibiting unusual vocalizations, resembling bird songs. It includes a report from 1849 about a mouse in Dumfries, Scotland, and another from 1852 in Davenport, USA, where a mouse was captured for its musical abilities. A 1960s mention from Popular Science Monthly about a wood mouse disturbing someone at night is also included.

"At Last-Order In The House"

This short item reports on the discovery of 25 disused rooms in the office of the Speaker of the House of Commons, which had been unknown to current staff and were last inhabited in 1945. The article humorously chides the Speakers for their lack of curiosity.

"Dwarfed By A Whopper Of A Tale"

This article discusses "The Cerne Abbas Dwarf," a 65 ft chalk carving discovered in Dorset, UK, in 1990. It mentions that the discovery was initially reported as an "exclusive" by "The Visitor" journal but was later revealed to be an "April Fool" prank. Three theories for the figure's identity are presented: King Diomedes, David and Goliath, or a Germanic mythological dwarf.

"Just Who Is Out There?"

This section lists various paranormal publications and organizations, including "Paranormal Journal," "Strange Phenomena Investigations," "CSICOP(UK)," "London Earth Mysteres Orce," and "Quest International."

"Abduction Talk"

This brief notice announces a BUFORA lecture on May 4th by Elsie Oakensen, detailing her personal experience with abduction.

"Lyon Conference"

This is an announcement for a two-day UFO conference organized by 505-OVNI in Lyon, France, on May 18-20, including cost and contact details.

"Drawing Information From Maps"

This piece highlights the work of 17th-century English mapmaker John Speed, focusing on his map of Herefordshire (1611). It details a solar phenomenon of three suns appearing in the sky before a battle in 1461, as recorded by Speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and the fringes of accepted knowledge. The magazine consistently features articles on UFOs, Forteana, and paranormal events, often linking them to historical accounts, ancient civilizations, and scientific speculation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various theories and accounts while also exercising a degree of skepticism, as seen in Gerry Lovell's response to the crop circle letter. There is a clear interest in historical anomalies, unusual occurrences, and the potential for extraterrestrial or unknown influences on human history and experience.

Title: Annals Of The ENQUIRING
Issue: Volume 2 #3
Date: May / June 1991
Publisher: THE BENCH PRESS
Country: UK
Price: £1 ea / £6 yr

This issue of Annals Of The ENQUIRING, published bi-monthly, presents a diverse range of topics centered around earth mysteries, fortean phenomena, and unexplained events.

Cover Story: Spirited Children Of The Alps

The cover story, written by Gerry Lovell, revisits historical accounts of eagles attacking children, drawing from sources like 'Animal Life In The Alps' from the mid-19th century. It details several incidents, including a case in Iran in March 1990 where a two-year-old child was snatched by an eagle, and a more fortunate rescue in Italy in 1974. The article highlights the power of these birds of prey and the often tragic outcomes for the children involved. Specific incidents mentioned include cases in the Bermese Oberland, Murra, and Wallis, Switzerland, where children were carried off by eagles, with some victims never recovered.

News and Miscellany

Mr. Long's Column features brief, unusual news items, such as a Canadian man who discovered a bullet hole in his skull days after an incident, and a Chinese farmer who killed his mother based on a dream. It also notes a scientific claim that the Crucifixion occurred on Friday, April 3, AD33, coinciding with a lunar eclipse, based on astronomical records and ancient texts.

The Stars Of India reports on the significant role of astrology in Indian politics. According to Rahul Bedi in The Sunday Times, many politicians and civil servants consult astrologers, palmists, and numerologists for decision-making. The outgoing Prime Minister, Chandra Shekhar, is noted as a public defender of astrology as an ancient Indian science.

File 13 is introduced as a new feature containing information relevant to the county of Somerset, where a high proportion of the magazine's membership resides. It promises to include late news of general interest.

Under Review: Publications

This section provides reviews of other publications received by the magazine.

• EARTH (Issue #17): Described as an AS format magazine grounded in earth mysteries, energy, leylines, rune magic, and fortean events. It includes illustrated reports from the Isle of Arran, Isle of Man, and Bradford. The review notes that the Book Review section, while concise and of high standard, takes up a significant 25% of the magazine. The issue reviewed featured an in-depth commentary on the alleged "Oz Factor."
• Details: 28pp, 6 issues pa, £1 ea / $5 yr. Editor: Paul Bennet, 20 Stonegate Road, Thorpe Edge, Bradford BD10 OHF, West Yorkshire.

• THE UFO DEBATE (Vol 2 #1): This magazine is presented as a "veritable cornucopia" for those interested in "utology." The editorial team decided to drop illustrations, focusing solely on text to prioritize reading content. The magazine, now in its second year and published by the British Earth Mysteries Society, intends to broaden its scope to include fortean and ghost stories. The reviewer questions the lack of illustrations.
• Details: 32pp, 6 issues pa, £1.40 ea / £8 yr. Editor: David Barclay, 40 Stubbing Way, Shipley, West Yorkshire, BD18 2EZ.

• NORTHERN UFO NEWS: Praised for its "often down-to-earth no nonsense approach" by editor Jenny Randles. It offers UFO news, views, reports, updates, and case histories, not limited to local events. The review highlights the inclusion of "investigation" and the mundane explanations of strange events. NUFON, representing 15 regional groups affiliated with BUFORA, contributes to the publication.
• Details: 16pp, 6 issues pa, £1 ea / £6 yr. NUFON, 37 Heathbank Road, Cheadle Heath, Stockport, Cheshire, SK3 OUP.

Letters to the Editor

Crop Circle Conflagration by Raymond Sheara of Newbury, Berks:

Sheara agrees with a previous article that "rubbished crop circles," expressing skepticism about the speed at which people embrace new bandwagons. He suggests that glossy pictures of crop circles are "undeniably soul inspiring" but represent an old story with a new name. He criticizes the tendency to ascribe "scientific respectability" to alleged pictograms, calling it "pittle." Sheara questions why people dismiss obvious hoaxes but cling to the idea that some crop circles defy rational explanation, attributing this to a "lack of knowledge or facts." He believes this viewpoint is based on "pure supposition" and that the "publishers' pets" are encouraged to promote their beliefs to a "gullible UFO public," concluding that "we are being conned."

Ed comment: The editor acknowledges Sheara's point, stating that the article might have been interpreted as "rubbishing crop circles" more than intended. He agrees that media hype has fueled speculation and action. However, he disagrees that all circles can be attributed to human handiwork, noting that some defy rational explanation, though he also points out that many reported circles are of a "dubious nature" and are reported while ignoring "numerous obvious signs of attributable cause."

A Dubious Compliment from C. Horten, Cardiff, B. Wales:

Horten thanks the magazine for its "latest issue" and "headlines," humorously suggesting the editor should work for tabloids like 'The Sun' or 'The Sport' due to the "double meaning" in some headlines.

Submissions and Exchange

Annals Of The ENQUIRING welcomes submissions in the form of articles, features, letters, clippings, photos, and artwork. They also welcome exchanges of publications and information with similar organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers themes related to earth mysteries, unexplained phenomena, UFO sightings, and fortean events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, as evidenced by the editor's response to the crop circle letter, where he balances skepticism with an acknowledgment that some phenomena may defy easy explanation. There is a clear interest in reporting on a wide range of unusual events and publications within these fields, while also engaging with reader feedback and debate.