Earth - No 11 - 1988

Magazine Overview

This issue of EARTH magazine, number 11, dated August 1988, is a publication focused on Pagan, Fortean, and Earth Mysteries. It is edited by Prof. Paulus fruitcake Bennett and is dedicated to 'Jonathon Livingston Seagulls everywhere.' The magazine is published from West Yorkshire, UK.

Editorial and Personal Notes

The editor apologizes for the delay in publication, citing a change of address and a personal loss as the primary reasons. He dedicates a page to the thoughts of Jon Tilleard, a local reader who passed away. The editor also notes recent events, including troubles at Stonehenge during Solstice and a gathering at Ilkley Moor. He briefly touches on media reports of 'six hundred Nazi Adolfs' being created from Hitler's handkerchief, questioning if 'YUFOS' have heard this.

UFO Front: Ilkley Moor Case

A significant portion of the magazine addresses a reported UFO incident involving the alleged landing and abduction of a West Yorkshire copper on Ilkley Moor. The editor criticizes the handling of the case by a researcher from Lancashire, who took it upon himself to investigate without involving local ufologists. The case, which surfaced six months prior, involves a man who saw a four-foot tall entity and a silver UFO. The tale reportedly escalated to include abduction and the appearance of 'men in black.' The editor expresses skepticism, suggesting the case may be a fake due to the slow addition of details and calls for a return to 'good old-fashioned investigations.'

Castaneda's Worlds by Ian Blake

This article explores the work of Carlos Castaneda, author of acclaimed studies on shamanism among the Sonoran Indians. It details Castaneda's introduction to don Juan Matus, a Yaqui Indian, in 1960. Castaneda, then an anthropology student, met don Juan during a field trip to gather information on medicinal plants. Their encounter led to a magical apprenticeship under don Juan, involving the use of psychedelic drugs to 'open new centres of vision.' The article highlights Castaneda's books, including 'The Teachings of Don Juan,' 'A Separate Reality,' and 'Journey to Ixtlan,' describing them as 'remarkable literary odysseys.'

Blake emphasizes Castaneda's compelling narrative style and his deep involvement with his material. Don Juan's tutelage involved learning shamanistic techniques and lore, particularly the process of 'seeing' or developing occult perception to penetrate the illusion of gross physical matter and lay bare the underlying reality. Castaneda's experiences in 'non-ordinary reality' include encounters with 'bizarre entities' like a talking coyote and Mescalito, the spirit of the peyote plant. The article notes that while these could be dismissed as drug-induced hallucinations, parallels exist with Fortean lore.

A significant episode from 'A Separate Reality' recounts Castaneda's encounter with three Mexicans who were later revealed by don Juan to be 'those who are not people' – forces that a brujo learns to harness. These 'allies,' as don Juan refers to them, can assume any size or shape and are detected through the inner eye. They are described as mimetic creatures whose motives are obscure, but their contact is potentially dangerous, bringing out the worst in human nature.

The article connects these 'ally scenarios' to UFO phenomena and the 'Men in Black' (MIBs), citing David Tansley's view that MIBs fit the theory of allies. It suggests that UFOs and their occupants might be 'psychic constructs' or 'thought forms' that use human emotion as fuel, drawing energy from percipients or power lines. The 'sham ferocity' observed in encounters with Bigfoot and phantom big cats is also linked to the 'ally strategies' of generating powerful emotional responses.

Earth Light Phenomena in West Yorkshire, Part 2 by Nigel Mortimer

This section details a possible Earth Light phenomenon observed by Jane Hallam on July 19, 1983, near Addingham Moorside, West Yorkshire. Hallam reported seeing an object, described as 'slender cigar-shaped,' approximately forty to fifty feet above a TV mast, which illuminated the surrounding treetops as if it were daylight. The object, estimated to be about the size of a small Mini-car and three feet wide, moved slowly westward towards Skipton. It appeared to be emitting its own brightness, described as gun-metal with possible bluish tints. Jane Hallam felt the experience was unreal, like something from a 'sci-fi movie,' and was transfixed by it.

Nigel Mortimer, the investigator, notes the local environmental factors, including the presence of rocks and a geological fault line that runs in the same direction as the object's reported trajectory. He suggests a correlation between the object's path and the fault line, proposing that the phenomenon might be an 'earthlight' rather than a conventional UFO. The article includes a diagram illustrating the reported sighting and its relation to geological features.

PaganLink Network by Phil Hine

This section introduces PaganLink, a new venture aimed at creating a contact and support network for Pagans and occultists in the UK. The network seeks to link individuals and groups, fostering new pathways for communication and development based on shared visions and values, rather than dogma. PaganLink organizes local coordinators and regional coordinators to facilitate meetings, events, and information exchange. The article mentions three main resource magazines associated with the network: 'Moonshine,' 'Northern PaganLink News,' and 'Albion Arise!' It also details regular 'Moots' (meetings) held in Leeds and Bradford.

The Undiscovered Old Stone Carvings of Cottingley Woods, Bingley

This piece revisits the topic of cup and ring carvings in West Yorkshire, emphasizing their importance to the geomantic make-up of the area. It describes an amazing rock carving discovered in the woodlands west of Cottingley, on the south side of the Aire Valley. Susan Stead and her friend found a well-preserved example of cup and ring stones on a rock measuring ten feet by seven feet. The carving is described as highly evocative and remarkably untouched by the elements. The article includes diagrams of the carving and notes its location and grid reference.

Fortean Snippets

This section presents a collection of unusual and bizarre news items from various sources:

• A woman in Sheffield reportedly expecting to give birth to an 8lb trout after being abducted and raped by extraterrestrials.
• Dozens of tadpoles found swimming in a rainwater barrel in Sheffield, apparently having fallen from the sky.
• A witchdoctor in Gabon arrested for allegedly eating six people, including his own children.
• A man in Northern Earth Mysteries allegedly admitting to killing two children in a voodoo ritual.
• An antique baby born in Alexandria, Egypt, with a three-thousand-year-old silver necklace around its ankle, seen as proof of reincarnation.
• A Zambian villager sentenced to ten strokes of the cane for killing a man who had murdered his mother and eaten her intestines.
• A woman in Frome, Somerset, giving birth to a five-pound baby hours after eating her husband's homemade rhubarb pie.
• A claim by a 114-year-old man and his girlfriend that they are the world's oldest living couple, with a combined age of 247.
• Discovery of what is thought to be the world's highest termite structure in the Australian outback, standing 21 feet tall.
• A Dartmoor farmer shooting dead a rare Asian leopard that was stalking his ducks.

Just What Was the Freak of Grafton Street?

This article investigates reports of a spectral figure known as the 'Freak of Grafton Street' or 'Springheeled Jack.' It details sightings from 1837 in London, 1873 in Sheffield, 1877 in Aldershot, and 1904 in Liverpool, all describing a figure clad in a white cloak, leaping over walls, and vanishing. The phenomenon reappeared in Bradford in September 1926, described as a 'ghost' over six feet tall with remarkable sprinting power. The figure was seen nightly for a week, appearing around 2 am, and eluding capture by police and locals. The article notes that similar phenomena have been reported in other locations and suggests a connection to 'earthlight' flashes.

The Haunters of the Heights

This section discusses paranormal happenings related to warfare and flight. It begins with 'Ghostly Battlefields,' detailing reports of spectral soldiers and sounds on historical battlegrounds like Sedgemoor in England, and Shiloh in Tennessee, USA. It also mentions haunted sites from World War II, including the Japanese prison camp at Changi in Singapore, where a prisoner painted a cross in his own blood on a cell wall.

The article then moves to 'The Haunters of the Heights,' focusing on spectral aircraft. It recounts the story of a World War I pilot whose ghost reportedly continued to fly during World War II, warning of enemy attacks. The ghost plane was identified as a Sopwith Camel fighter, whose pilot had died of starvation after crashing in 1917. Another account describes a spectral figure seen at RAF Middleton-St. George, a former bomber base, where a pilot's ghost repeatedly asked, 'Have you seen my navigator?' Poltergeist phenomena, such as doors opening and objects moving, were also reported at the base.

Labyrinth Structure on Ilkley Moor by Matthew Atha

Matthew Atha describes his discovery of a labyrinthine arrangement of stones on Ilkley Moor, near the Twelve Apostles stone circle. He details its dimensions and grid reference, suggesting it is possibly contemporary with the nearby ancient sites. Atha expresses dismay at the damage caused to the Twelve Apostles stones, which had been broken and reset with cement, attributing it to either vandals or fundamentalist fanatics. He emphasizes the importance of preserving such sites for their resonance and warns against their destruction or takeover by organizations like English Heritage.

Weird War Tales - Ghostly Battlefields

This article expands on the theme of haunted battlefields, beginning with the Battle of Sedgemoor in 1685, where spectral rebels are reported to be seen and heard. It mentions the ghost of Judge Jeffreys and other historical figures associated with the conflict. The piece then moves to the New World, discussing haunted battlegrounds from various American wars, including the Civil War and the Battle of Shiloh. It describes phantom cannonades, musketry, and the sounds of soldiers and horses. The article also touches upon World War II spectres, including an account from the prison camp at Changi, Singapore, and the phenomenon of 'earthlight' flashes.

The Haunters of the Heights (Continued)

The article continues its exploration of aerial phenomena, detailing a sighting by an RAF regiment driver of a 'formless, gigantic black shape' on a deserted airfield. Another account describes a lanky figure in a crouched position, wearing a leather flying suit and goggles, who asked, 'Have you seen my navigator, Jock?' The author suspects this is the station's resident ghost. The piece notes that many deserted World War II airfields appear to be haunted by such spectres, with the ghosts of pilots endlessly searching for their navigators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of EARTH magazine include UFO sightings and encounters, paranormal phenomena, earth mysteries, shamanism, and folklore. The magazine adopts a stance that is open to investigating and reporting on these subjects, often drawing connections between seemingly disparate events and phenomena, such as UFOs and ancient myths, or geological features and aerial sightings. There is a critical perspective on how some cases are handled by researchers, advocating for thorough and collaborative investigation. The magazine also shows a strong interest in ancient sites, earth energies, and pagan traditions, as evidenced by the PaganLink section and the article on stone carvings. The editorial tone is generally inquisitive and sometimes skeptical, particularly regarding sensationalized UFO reports, while remaining open to the possibility of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Northern Earth Mysteries, identified as the "Eighth Annual moot" and dated "SATURDAY 29th OCTOBER 1988," is a publication focused on Earth Mysteries, folklore, and related phenomena. It features a detailed exploration of the Silver Birch tree, its historical and cultural significance, and its medicinal properties. The magazine also delves into Yorkshire folklore, presenting tales of various sprites and elementals. Additionally, it includes a substantial "Books for Sale" section, a comprehensive list of "Exchange Magazines," and reviews of several other publications in the field. The event itself, the "Northern Earth Mysteries moot," is prominently advertised with a schedule of speakers and topics.

The Silver Birch: Folklore and Properties

The issue dedicates significant space to the Silver Birch (Betula verrucosa or B. pendula). The name 'Birch' is traced back to the Sanscrit 'bhurga,' meaning 'a tree whose bark is used for writing upon.' Historically, its bark was used for writing materials, and its leaves were associated with divination. The tree holds extensive folklore, notably as a principal wood for witches' broomsticks, possibly linked to the presence of the Fly Agaric fungus nearby. It was also believed to avert the 'evil eye' and was hung over doorways for protection. Heather Blamires of Clan Dalriada notes its significance as a tree of beginnings, sacred to Pagan Celts for renewal and purification, with twigs used to expel the old year's spirit. In Wales, it was a symbol of love and often used as a Maypole. The text mentions a 'wedding' custom where couples jumping over a birch besom were considered legally married. The tree is also linked to Beltane celebrations, with rituals involving birch twigs and dancing. While Christian mythology sometimes covered it with shame, Russians believe it a symbol of health, with its sap and oil having medicinal uses.

The issue also touches upon a vision of the Virgin or Earth Goddess appearing in the birch, which is compared to a modern UFO-entity case. Coleridge is quoted as referring to the silver birch as the "Lady of the Woods." In Russia, the 'genius of the forest' is invoked through birch branches. Medicinally, young birch leaves are used for urinary problems and rheumatism, containing saponins, tannins, and essential oils. They are also noted for their diuretic and disinfectant properties, and when combined with lime flowers, are good for rheumatism, gout, and dropsy. Birch leaves are also used to induce perspiration for colds and flu, and are considered specific for kidney stones. The bark is also mentioned for counteracting skin eruptions like eczema.

Yorkshire Folklore: Sprites and Elementals

The magazine explores tales of Yorkshire's folklore, starting with a peculiar elemental form named Aiken Drum, who reputedly manifested near the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. Another entity, 'Awd Goggie,' is described as a sprite that protects fruit in woods and orchards. 'Churnmilk Peg' is mentioned as an entity that looked after unripe nut thickets and was seen smoking a pipe. Hobs are described as mischievous forms found across the north, with one example of a Hob at Runsivick Bay known for curing ailments. A tale is recounted of a Hob at Sturfit Hall who left after being offered clothes. A more sinister elemental, Jeannie of Biggersdale, is said to have lived in Mulgrave Woods and is known for tearing a horse in two. The issue also mentions a comical fairy creature related to the Boggart, called a Killmoulis, which reputedly haunted mills and made screaming wails before illness or death. Melsh Dick is presented as the male counterpart to Churnmilk Peg, a wood demon.

The text discusses the significance of nut thickets in rural economy and the supernatural beliefs surrounding them. It also introduces the concept of a 'Waff,' a Yorkshire name for a wraith or double, seen as a portent of death. A story is told of averting a Waff by sternly speaking to it. Robin Round-cap's Well is mentioned as a place associated with a Hobgoblin spirit who once helped with chores but was eventually trapped in the well by clergymen.

Book Reviews

• Several books are reviewed, including:
• "Where There's a Will" by Maurice Barbanell, focusing on positive thought and spiritualism.
• "Fire from the Gods? New Insights on the Minster Fire" by Angus MacLean, which suggests earth energy influenced the York Minster fire.
• "Photographing the Spirit World" by Cyril Permutt, a collection of ghost and entity photographs.
• "Strange Pocklington: Folklore & Earth Mysteries in East Yorkshire" by Ian Taylor, detailing local folklore, leys, and ghosts.
• "How to be Healthy, Wealthy & Wise" by M.H. Tester, offering a formula for a healthy mind-body relationship.
• "The Language of the Gods" by Roy Norvill, exploring symbolism and occult concepts.

Magazine Reviews

• Reviews of other publications include:
• Moonshine, No.11: A Pagan publication featuring articles on shamanism, chakras, lore, and the solar cycle.
• The Ley Hunter, No.105: Features an interview with Tom Graves, an account of Callanish, sacred geography of Crete, and articles on radiation at megalithic sites.
• The Hookah, No.8: Described as a magazine for those interested in THC, with news from various countries and a campaign for legalization.
• Fortean Times, No.50: Covers a variety of strange phenomena, including reports on a giant worm, spontaneous human combustion, and 'Mince Pie Martians'.
• The Kabbalist, 5:10: Features essays on the Tree of Life, Qabalah, and elemental contact.

Exchange Magazines

A comprehensive list of magazines available for exchange or subscription is provided, covering a wide range of topics including Earth Mysteries, Fortean phenomena, UFOs, Paganism, magick, ritual, healing, and occultism. Publications listed include The Ley Hunter, Fortean Times, Strange Magazine, The Lamp of Thoth, New Dimensions, Vision Seeker & Sharer, International UFO Reporter, Northern Earth Mysteries, The Kabbalist, Northern UFO News, Dalriada, Chaos International, Dark Lily, Out from the Core, UFO Brigantia, Cosmology Newslink, Moonbow, UFO Newsclipping Service, Magonia, Gnomon, The Hookah, and Northern PaganLink News.

Northern Earth Mysteries Moot 1988

The main event advertised is the Eighth Annual Northern Earth Mysteries Moot, scheduled for Saturday, October 29, 1988, at The Lecture Theatre, Chesterfield Library. Speakers include Norman Fahy (Dowsing Peakland Prehistoric Sites), Philip Heselton (Philip Rodgers of Grindleford - Space Voices and Earth Energies), David Clarke (Celtic Survivals in the Peak District), Chris Fletcher (Derbyshire's Geomantic Pioneers), and Jonathan Mullard (Megalithic Malta). The event also includes short presentations on Earth Mysteries and an informal guide to geomantic sites for Sunday. The cost is £5 (£2.50 unwaged) if booked in advance, with higher prices on the door. Contact details for booking are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Earth Mysteries, folklore (particularly of Yorkshire and the Silver Birch), herbalism, and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of enthusiastic exploration and documentation of these subjects, encouraging readers to engage with the material and share their own experiences. The inclusion of book and magazine reviews, as well as advertisements for related publications and events, suggests a community-oriented approach, aiming to connect readers with resources and like-minded individuals. The tone is generally informative and engaging, with a clear passion for the subjects covered.