Earth - No 06 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: EARTH
Issue: 6
Date: Beltane 1987 (May 1987)
Publisher: EARTH magazine
Country: UK
Price: 60p
Focus: Paganism, Ufology, Mysticism, etc.

This issue of EARTH magazine, a bi-monthly publication, delves into a diverse range of topics including evolutionary theory, archaeology, folklore, and unexplained phenomena, with a particular emphasis on UFO sightings and ancient mysteries in the UK.

Articles and Features

The Earth is Crying: A Plea for Environmental Awareness

The editorial opens with a stark warning about humanity's impact on the planet, likening Earth's suffering to human tears. It criticizes the exploitation of natural resources and pollution, suggesting that the increase in UFO activity since 1945 might be a manifestation of Earth's distress. The piece urges a greater respect for the planet, warning of potential extinction if current trends continue.

Towards a Smarter Rat: Sheldrake's Morphic Resonance Theory

This article introduces the theories of biologist Rupert Sheldrake, focusing on morphic resonance and formative causation. It contrasts Sheldrake's ideas with Darwinian and Lamarckian evolution, using William Mcdougall's experiments with rats as a case study. Sheldrake proposes that species can inherit acquired characteristics through 'morphic fields' that operate outside of space and time, influencing everything from DNA to crystal formation. The article speculates on how these fields might relate to UFO phenomena, suggesting that collective human consciousness and experiences contribute to the formation of UFO shapes and sightings.

Discovery of New Old Stone Carvings in the Pennines

Amateur archaeologist Arthur Quarmby has discovered a collection of previously unnoticed prehistoric carvings in West and South Yorkshire. These carvings, described as distinct from known cup and ring markings, are found along natural geological boundaries. The article notes that their placement might be significant for students of 'earth energy' and 'earth lights', and that the carvings are definitively artificial, not natural erosion.

Stonehenge and the Peace Convoy

David Pendleton recounts his personal experience visiting Stonehenge and reflects on the controversial Stonehenge Festival. He criticizes the government's actions in over-ruling the festival, aided by the press, and draws parallels to the miners' strike. The article details the police response to the 'Convoy', including alleged harassment and the denial of basic freedoms, questioning the government's motives and the outcome of the confrontations.

Close Encounters from Days Gone By

This section presents several historical accounts of strange phenomena. One report from 1889 describes a farmer and his son encountering a 'grey man' on a horse, who later revealed himself to be the farmer's deceased father. Another account from the same year details a hill walker's encounter with a luminous spherical object and unearthly screams on Haworth Moor. The article also touches upon sightings of a tall, black, humanoid entity around Idle Hill in West Yorkshire during the late 1970s, with multiple witnesses reporting similar observations.

The Lancashire Witches: A Historical Account

Sylvia Ross investigates the historical accounts of the Pendle witches, distinguishing fact from fiction. The article focuses on the trials of the early 17th century, detailing the alleged witchcraft practices of women like Old Demdike and Old Chattox, their familiars, and their supposed victims. It highlights the involvement of Elizabeth Device and her daughter Jennet, whose testimony played a crucial role. The piece also touches upon the mysterious involvement of Alice Nutter, a woman of means, in the proceedings.

In Search of Faerie-Land & Other Strange Places

This feature explores folklore and legends of 'little people' and faerie realms in Yorkshire, referencing tales from Cottingley and local folklore about entrances to other worlds. It discusses reports of faerie garments and music heard in secluded areas, drawing parallels between these accounts and UFO phenomena, such as 'angel hair'. The article also mentions the existence of holy wells and ancient sites in the region, suggesting a deep-rooted mystical significance.

Mysteries of Idle Hill

Further exploring the phenomena around Idle Hill, this section details reports of a giant black entity, a glowing white entity, and anomalous creatures seen in the area. It connects these sightings to a UFO flap in West Yorkshire during the late 1970s and suggests that Idle Hill may be a focal point for unusual manifestations due to its position in relation to fault lines and ancient earth energies.

Books for Sale

A list of occult, mystical, and UFO-related books available for purchase from the editor is included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of paganism, ufology, mysticism, and ancient mysteries, with a strong focus on British folklore and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to share their own strange experiences. There is a clear interest in alternative theories of evolution and the potential interconnectedness of consciousness, nature, and the paranormal. The publication also demonstrates a critical perspective on governmental actions and societal norms, particularly concerning events like the Stonehenge Festival and the historical witch trials.

Title: EARTH MAGAZINE
Issue: 6
Date: Spring 1987 (estimated March 1987)
Focus: This issue of EARTH MAGAZINE primarily focuses on the historical "Trials of the Lancashire Witches" from 1612, offering a critical examination of the proceedings and evidence. It also includes a significant section dedicated to reviews of various magazines and books covering ufology, earth mysteries, occultism, and paganism.

The Trials of the Lancashire Witches

The lead article delves into the notorious Lancashire Witch Trials, questioning the validity of the convictions and the nature of the evidence presented. It highlights the use of "identity parades" where witnesses, particularly Jennet Device, identified the accused. The article details the cases of several women, including Alice Nutter, Katherine Hewet, Jane Bulcock, and Alizon Device. Alizon's case is presented as stemming from a dispute with a pedlar, John Law, who claimed she bewitched him after she begged him for pins and he refused. Alizon confessed to seeing a "thing like unto a Blacke Dogge" that asked her what she would have it do, leading her to wish for the pedlar to be lamed.

The article also touches upon Margaret Pearson, who was on her third trial for witchcraft offenses and had shared a cell with Old Chattox. Pearson was sentenced to be pilloried. The author raises questions about whether the accused were genuine witches or simply peasants who used their knowledge of herbalism and basic psychology to intimidate others. The evidence presented, often based on hearsay and contradictory testimonies, is scrutinized. The role of James Device, whose testimony was significant but described as contradictory, is also noted.

The piece acknowledges the historical significance of the trials, thanks to the documentation by Thomas Potts in his book, "The Trial of the Lancaster Witches 1612." It mentions that the story has inspired romantic novels by authors like Robert Neill and Harrison Ainsworth.

Reviews of Other Publications

The latter part of the magazine is dedicated to reviews of various niche publications and books, catering to interests in earth mysteries, occultism, ufology, and paganism.

Magazines Reviewed:

• OUT FROM THE CORE: Described as a magazine about Radical Healing, based in Leeds, covering alternative healing, herbalism, and aromatherapy. It's noted for its feminist stance.
• CHAOS INTERNATIONAL: A new venture by Ray Sherwin, previously associated with 'THE NEW EQUINOX'. It's recommended for those involved in magick or occultism.
• NORTHERN EARTH MYSTERIES (NEM): The last edition edited by Philip Heselton, who is handing over to new editors Rob Wilson and David Clarke. NEM is praised for its coverage of earth mysteries and has been a principal publication in the country. Heselton plans to continue producing journals and booklets on earth mysteries.
• UFO BRIGANTIA: An edition that covers the Cracoe Fell UFO case, concluding it was a natural phenomenon. It also includes a brief history of ufology, comments on the decline of ufology, and a look at a Pennine UFO flap from the mid-seventies.
• NORTHERN UFO NEWS (NUN): Features an update on the Cracoe UFO issue, articles on UFO sightings in Wales, and a look at "Bedroom Encounters." It also includes UFO sightings from across Northern Britain.
• Elements of Tarot Volume 1: A book by Peter Southwood, praised as a practical introduction to Tarot, focusing on how to start, ask questions, and interpret cards. It avoids dubious history and is recommended for beginners.
• Tony Wedd: New Age Pioneer: A book by Philip Heselton, covering the life of a pioneer in earth mysteries, his involvement with leys, UFOs, free energy devices, and Stonehenge.
• Spooklights: A British Survey: A book by David Clarke & Granville Oldroyd, an historical survey of phenomena like will-o'-the-wisps, ghost lights, and UFOs.
• Cat Flaps: A Survey of Mystery Cats in the North of England: A book by Andy Roberts, surveying reports of mystery cats like lions and pumas seen in Northern England.
• UFO Newsclipping Service: A large-format American magazine covering UFO, creature, and Fortean tales globally. Issues 210 & 211 mention Bigfoot sightings, sea serpents, lake monsters, and a UFO flap in Alaska.
• UFO Contact: A well-produced ET-based magazine discussing officialdom, cover-ups, extraterrestrial life, black holes, free energy devices, UFO sightings by astronauts, and George Adamski.

Other Publications Mentioned:

• Ley Hunter: Described as the world's number one magazine on Earth Mysteries, Elemental Living, and Pagan matters.
• Fortean Times: A journal of strange phenomena.
• Lamp of Thoth: A publication of the Sorcerer's Apprentice, covering Pagan, occult, and mystical matters.
• The Cauldron: A Pagan Journal of the Old Religion.
• Chaos International: An occasional publication covering Chaos Magick.
• The Kabbalist: A quarterly publication of the I.O.K.
• Quest: A publication of the Yorkshire UFO Society.
• UFO Contact International: An ET-based UFO magazine dedicated to George Adamski.

Shops and For Sale:

The magazine also lists several shops and individuals selling related materials:

• Falcon Books of Saltaire: Offers second-hand books on mysticism, parapsychology, occultism, and archaeology.
• Sorcerer's Apprentice: A large dealer in occult and magick regalia, books, and paranormal items.
• For Sale: Advertisements for hundreds of occult, paranormal, and UFO books, with paperbacks priced at 46p, 50p, and 60p.
• Computer Commodore C64: Offered with software.

Wanted:

• "Earth Magic" by Francis Hitching and "Needles of Stone" by Tom Graves.
• "Inner Keltia" magazine, Nos. 1, 2 & 3.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the examination of historical cases of alleged witchcraft, the critical analysis of evidence and testimony, and the exploration of the supernatural and unexplained through ufology and earth mysteries. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded stance, questioning official narratives and encouraging readers to critically assess information, as seen in the questioning of the witch trial evidence and the analysis of UFO reports. There's a clear interest in alternative belief systems, including paganism and occultism, as evidenced by the extensive reviews of related publications.