Folklore Frontiers - No 002

Magazine Overview

Title: FOLKLORE FRONTIERS
Issue: No. 2
Volume: 2
Publication Date: 1986
Publisher: Paul Screeton
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Folklore Frontiers presents a collection of articles and reviews delving into various aspects of folklore, Fortean phenomena, and earth mysteries. The magazine is described as an independent, non-profitmaking publication.

Lead-In

The editorial section, "LEAD-IN," begins by noting the relevance of a "cuttings scheme" where multiple people scanning the same newspaper can yield different results, emphasizing the importance of a broad network for coverage. It calls for more contributions, particularly from local newspapers, and highlights the railway press as a source of "dubious platform end rumour." The "Rotherham Triangle" (an area bounded by Sheffield, Doncaster, and Barnsley) is identified as a region with an unusual percentage of strange news stories, with a speculative question about the "Scargill factor" and its relation to UFO flap areas.

The editor apologizes for the delay between issues 1 and 2 and expresses a hope for more folkloric material and fewer reviews in the future. Plans for issue No. 3 include a professional A5 size booklet format, aiming for a blend of "Fortean Times" and "Magonia" formats, with topical columns and a review section. The target publication date for No. 3 is August at the latest. The editor is particularly seeking articles on general "u.b.t." (unidentified aerial phenomena) subjects and round-ups of topics readers are conversant with where rumour is regular, as well as feedback letters.

Readers' Letters

Paul Smith from Burton-on-Trent comments on a previous article about "The Priory of Sion," arguing that it fits better under "hoaxes" rather than "conspiracy theories." He describes "The Priory of Sion" as a Plantard confidence trick from 1956, fabricated in 1962, and states that Henry Lincoln has lost credibility. Smith praises the "Web of Suspicion" article and the "Andy Roberts piece" as excellent and intriguing.

Andy Roberts from Brighouse discusses the TV series "Operation Julie," noting a Channel 4 discussion about the programme. He recounts an anecdote about a sailor in Portsmouth who, after taking "KBD," believed his arms were long enough to stretch out of a ship's porthole. When challenged, the producer of "Operation Julie" defended the story as being told to him as true. The editor (ED) questions the "hysteria" over the case and suggests a more sensible perspective, viewing the defendants as "idealistic hippies."

Articles

THE WORLD CAPITAL OF HITCH-HIKING STORIES

By Jake Williams

Jake Williams nominates Wawa, Ontario, Canada, as the "worst place to hitch-hike." He describes Wawa's location on the Trans-Canada Highway, where the road splits into two parallel routes for a few hundred miles. The problem for hitch-hikers is that while there is medium-distance traffic heading east to mining and forestry towns, traffic heading west is either very local or extremely long-distance. Drivers heading coast-to-coast have often already picked up passengers, making it difficult for those at the Wawa junction. Williams shares stories he heard while running a youth hostel, including one about a man who waited for days and eventually married a waitress in Wawa. He also recounts a story of a hitch-hiker who built a makeshift hut by the road for shelter. Williams mentions writing a letter to a folksong magazine researching hitch-hiking stories and is awaiting a response.

Williams also muses on the types of hitch-hiking stories, differentiating between drivers' experiences and hitch-hikers' experiences. He wonders if there are stories from the perspective of drivers and from the inhabitants of Wawa itself, and invites the waitress who married the hitchhiker to come forward.

GUINNESS IS GOOD FOR IT

By Tony "Doc" Shiels

Tony "Doc" Shiels writes about the folklore and perceived properties of Guinness stout. He claims it has "amazing apocryphallic aphrodisiac properties" and "puts lead in your pencil." Shiels notes the prevalence of large families in Ireland as evidence of the drink's virility and fertility-enhancing qualities. He explains the nickname "the blonde in the long black skirt" and shares anecdotes about its supposed effects on men and women, including claims that it enriches the blood and stimulates milk production in nursing mothers. Shiels also touches upon the "lycanthropic quality" due to Guinness's early bottlers, Blood, Wolfe & Co., and mentions "Wolf Stout" in Malaysia and Irish tales of corpses being revived by stout, linking it to Bram Stoker.

Shiels further elaborates on the "hot-red-blooded, stout-hearted, sexual athlete" archetype associated with Guinness, citing a cartoon commercial and various urban belief tales. These include stories of Guinness giving super strength, helping centenarians father children, and being used as a "special" lotion. He notes that in Nigeria, Guinness is advertised as providing "satisfaction and happiness" and "Power."

For females, Shiels mentions that many Irish women drink Guinness by the pint and that doctors have stated it "undoubtedly stimulates the secretion of milk." He also references the tradition of "wetting the baby's head" and the practice in some Far Eastern countries of bathing newborns in Guinness for beneficial effects. The term "Baby Guinness" for a small bottle is also mentioned.

Book and Magazine Reviews

FLS NEWS

Described as an "expensive mag" but a four-page info digest for non-members, available from the Folklore Society.

FOAFTALE NEWS

A news sheet on contemporary legend research aiming to provide communication among researchers. It requests contributions and material for publication. Issue No. 1 lists recent books, "Perspectives on Contemporary Legend," and a forthcoming international seminar.

PEGASUS

A journal from the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena. Issue Sept/Oct 1985 mentions the McMurray family close encounter at Bagshot Heath and speculation on "wheatfield 'circles'."

"RAILWAY GHOSTS" by W.B. HERBERT

Reviewed by Paul Screeton.

This review discusses W.B. Herbert's book on supernatural railway stories. The reviewer notes that the book fulfills a need for railwaymen's reminiscences with a supernatural dimension. While it is considered accessible to the casual reader, it may have little value for in-depth researchers. The review highlights tales of "frozen" passengers from the Welwyn crash, platform end rumours, and the "spooky tale of jinxed locomotive 47299." It also mentions modern settings like electric multiple unit carriage sheds at Addiscombe being scenes of unexplainable events. The reviewer finds the reminiscences of photographer Derek Cross and sound recordist Peter Handford convincing. The review notes the book's connection to modern traction and mentions a dwarf-like apparition and an elemental seen from a train.

"EARTH MYSTERIES: AN EXPLORATORY INTRODUCTION" by PHILIP HESELTON and BRIAN LARKMAN. "GLOMANTIC SURVIVALS IN YORK" by BEN FERNEE. "ASTROLOGICAL GEOMANCY: AN INTRODUCTION" by PATRICK MOFADZEAN.

Reviewed by Paul Screeton.

This section reviews three books from the Northern Earth Mysteries Group. "Earth Mysteries" is described as a timely and worthy introductory guide to the subject, explaining the framework of earth mysteries, including leys, Watkins's statistics, astroarchaeology, psychic dimensions, earth energy, fairies, and earthlights. "Glomantic Survivals in York" by Ben Fernee examines the city of York's tradition of siting and design, touching on plague stones, beating the bounds, and sacred geometry, with a mention of the author's overwhelming experience of energy in the Minster crypt. "Astrological Geomancy" by Patrick McFadzean also looks at York, reproducing astrological charts and discussing the use of astrology in consecrating buildings. The reviewer finds these publications "pertinent."

"THE FAIRIES' REVENGE" by ANTHONY ROBERTS

Reviewed by Bob Dylan (quoted) and the magazine's reviewer.

This review describes Anthony Roberts's work as "psychedelic prose" and an "imperative essay." It suggests that fairies, whose land has been "raped," take revenge through accidents caused by modern infrastructure. The reviewer notes that while fairies may not be as visible, they can serve as a warning mechanism. The piece argues that teaching children about fairies enriches their lives and that disbelief can be malicious. Roberts's central argument is that "The geomantic balance must always be restored." The review touches upon the "New Age" movement, suggesting that while much of it is "crap," it represents an alternative to scientific reductionism. The question of "Geomantic balance? A return of equilibrium?" is posed, with the suggestion to "I believe in fairies."

"THE BRENTFORD GRIFFIN" by ANDY COLLINS

Reviewed by Paul Screeton.

This review discusses Andy Collins's report on a "strange flying phenomenon" in West London's Brentford district. The reviewer notes the griffin's connection to local place names, the football club, and coat of arms. While acknowledging the possibility of a spoof or hype, Collins presents the facts, leaving the reader to decide if it was all hype or a genuine supernatural event. The review praises the presentation and illustrative content.

STRANGE WYCOMBE edited by ALAN CLEAVER

Reviewed by Paul Screeton.

This review praises the work of the Strange group for recording local folklore. "Strange Wycombe" features articles on hauntings, ghostly riders, spirits in inns, and other mysteries in the Wycombe area. It also includes pieces on turf-cut mummers, miracles, standing stones, the revival of beating the bounds, and a town crier. The reviewer hopes for more such publications in ASSAP's Project Albion series.

Magazines Reviewed

Several other magazines and newsletters are briefly reviewed:

• THE LEY HUNTER: Deals with earth mysteries, ancient alignments, folklore, and earth energies. Issue No. 99 discusses the situation at Stonehenge in 1985, with contributions on the York Minster Moot, Welsh folklore, and John Michell.
• QUICK SILVER MESSENGER: Focuses on landscape, myth, and consciousness. Issue No. 11 features an interview with geomancer Nigel Pennick, and Issue No. 12 discusses differences between European and Oriental ley lines.
• QUEST: Covers Western Mystery Tradition, including witchcraft, magic, runes, astrology, and Maori moon myths. Issues No. 64 and 65 are mentioned.
• RILKO NEWS LETTER: From the Research into Lost Knowledge Organisation, offering newsletters, lectures, and a book service.
• STONEHENGE VIEWPOINT: A freethinking magazine on archaeology, astronomy, geology, and related arts. Issue No. 63 begins a series on "Velikovsky's Sources" and discusses the "Western Epigraphic Society."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Folklore Frontiers are folklore, urban legends, Fortean phenomena, and earth mysteries. The magazine actively seeks contributions from readers and researchers, aiming to build a network for information sharing. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unusual phenomena and folklore, encouraging critical yet open-minded investigation. There is a clear interest in the intersection of myth, belief, and contemporary life, as evidenced by the articles on hitch-hiking, Guinness, and book reviews covering a wide range of esoteric and folkloric subjects. The magazine also engages with the academic and research community by reviewing other publications in related fields.

Title: FORTEAN TIMES
Issue: M2
Volume: M3
Issue Date: 1986 (implied by subscription rates)
Publisher: Fortean Times
Country: UK
Price: £6 or 12 dollars for four issues
Cover Headline: The foremost journal of strange phenomena.

This issue of FORTEAN TIMES delves into a diverse array of anomalous phenomena and fringe theories, presenting a collection of articles, reviews, and correspondence from various specialized journals and independent researchers.

Featured Articles and Reviews

The issue opens with a discussion on planetary canopy hobbyhorses, giving weight to a lengthy thesis by Dr. Louis Winkler. This leads to a comparison of canopy models by Cyr, who also details the drawing of the 'Naked Lady of Bidston.' The articles explore the possibility of conjecture in these conclusions and draw parallels to the ongoing debate surrounding King Arthur, with a piece by P.K. Johnstone and a letter from P.M. Hughes suggesting Roman support for Arthur's kingship. Mary Caine offers a persuasive argument for a non-human Arthur, emphasizing a search for him not just in the wrong time but in the 'wrong plane,' relating to history of thought, philosophy, cosmology, and the science of the Inner Man.

Further articles by Cyr include a discussion of the Vailian canopy theory in relation to astrology, an examination of 'Ice Crystal Halo Origin of Zodiac Patterns,' and a critique of nuclear winter and Cretaceous dinosaur scenarios. Paul Screeton celebrates St. Margaret of Cliterow of York, and the origins of the magazine are discussed. David J. Ride posits a solar Stonehenge alignment from the Cerne Abbas hill figure, with a tribute to the late P.K. Johnstone. Cyr also recounts an expedition to Scandinavian epigraphic and megalithic sites. John G. Williams presents his SCEMB line synthesis of 14 prehistoric alignments at Stonehenge, while Aubrey Burl critiques Ride's claims.

NORTHERN UFO NEWS is reviewed, described as a handy, closely typed magazine for ufologists. It covers news and views on mind-matter interaction, ufological phenomena, and the concept of 'doormen' filtering sensory input. Features include news round-ups, book reviews, media matters, and case histories, with a mention of the 1973 Peter Day film. Debates on the ethics of 'The Uniinvited' series are noted, along with sighting cases from Hartlepool and Greatham. An inquiry is raised about Army involvement in North Wales and whether an aircraft hit a UFO over Rendlesham Forest. Editor Jenny Randles' editorial urges readers to 'Forget Rendlesham.'

PRACTICAL GEOMANCY, a magazine for geomantic research, is also reviewed. Its first issue covers geomantic examples in York, alleged health damage from hi-tech devices, the energies of T. Henry Moray and Nikola Tesla, weathervanes, labyrinths, geomantic mirrors, astrology, and orientation. The second issue discusses the nature of 'ley' and includes an example from Hereford city, along with an Indian version of astrological geomancy and yoga.

PSI-EYE, a critical digest of the paranormal, is introduced. Its first issue features an overview of the near-death experience by editor Mike Costello, constructive criticism of ASSAP, and magazine and book reviews. The publication aims to fill the void left by 'Common Ground.'

FORTEAN TIMES itself is described as the foremost journal of strange phenomena, with a subscription rate of £6 or 12 dollars for four issues.

Other Journals and Newsletters Reviewed

Page M3 reviews FORTEAN TIMES issue No. 45, featuring an article by Ron Westrum on phantom attackers and pieces by editor Bob Rickard on phantom sieges and giant apemen. Nigel Watson discusses airship panics and Dwight Whalen covers stuntwoman Annie Taylor and falling rocks. Topics include alien big cats, Irish porcelain, crosses in the sky, mystery mushroom clouds, fish falls, grid-gambolling sheep, six-legged lambs, goat-unicorns, crying from the womb, lightning strikes, bounding wallabies, whale beachings, and humans frozen alive.

ANOMALY, a journal of research into the paranormal, is reviewed. Its first issue synthesizes the earth lights theory and features articles on psychic research, anomalous phenomena research in 1984, progress by ASSAP, and investigations by Jenny Randles and Caroline Wise.

MAGONIA, an independent journal focusing on ufology from a psycho-sociological viewpoint, is reviewed. Issue No. 18 includes a call for paranormal cases and a suggestion of an external agency. Peter Rogerson parallels witchcraft with ufology, and the 'Great Liverpool leprechaun panic' is highlighted. Roger Sandell is skeptical of the 'Rendlesham Forest "Sky Crash"' book. Nigel Watson speculates on SF writers deliberately creating the 'Philadelphia experiment' rumor. Issue No. 19 features 'The Maniac on the Platform' by Michael Goss, and discussions on what ufology needs to be a science, reincarnation, and Steven Spielberg films. Issue No. 20 covers American airship sightings of 1896/7, the alleged spaceman's grave at Aurora, Texas, divine children, changelings, aliens, and oobe-related events. Nigel Watson writes on inventors building their own spacecraft. Issue No. 21 addresses the French pterodactyl story, Galileo, and Rendlesham, with a skit by Robert Rankin.

EARTHQUEST NEWS, a bi-annual magazine of psychic questing, is reviewed. Issue No. 14 includes articles on Joan of Arc's vision, Joseph Smith's treasure hunting, and a book guide. It also mentions the 'Stumps Cross Birdman' and other paranormal topics.

Page M4 reviews NEARA JOURNAL, a magazine on New England antiquities. Issue No. 72 features Bart Jordan's catalogue of recreated early calendrical art, claiming Acheulian man knew about Saturn's synodical revolution. Jon Woodson pays tribute to James Arnold's research on megalithic New England. C.M. Devine urges caution in conclusions, and Sig Lonegren applies dowsing to sacred sites. Issue No. 71 reports on a New Hampshire site survey. Issue No. 72 discusses Bart Jordan's theories and 'The Fatima sequence.' Little Turtle critiques Barry Fell's work.

AMSKAYA, a newsletter of the STAR Fellowship, announces its revival and reprints a Tony Wedd article. Philip Heselton begins a history of the fellowship.

TOUCHSTONE, a newsletter of the Surrgy Earth Mysteries Group, features a reprint of a 1970 'The Ley Hunter' article by Tony Wedd, linking prehistoric sites with the flying saucer phenomenon. Articles on ley hunts and old stones are included.

PENDRAGON, a journal of the Pendragon Society, covers Arthurian history and archaeology. Issue Vol. XVII No. 1 focuses on Glastonbury, with articles on Mendips, matrifocal society, Christian relics, and atmosphere. Issue Vol. XVII No. 2 explores the 'Maze theme,' Stonehenge, and Shakespeare. Issue Vol. XVII No. 3 discusses the relationship between Christianity and the Celtic West, Northern Arthur, winged serpents, and Rennès-le-C.

UFO BRIGANTIA, a magazine from the West Yorks UFO Research Group, features possibilities of pterodactyls and UFOs near Shipley Glen, and multiple witness sightings. Iain Johnstone begins an article on the source of UFOs. Other articles cover green humanoid encounters, a correlation between UFO activity and Yorkshire Ripper murders, dowsing experiments at UFO-related sites, and alien intelligences. Later issues include case investigations, reading lists, and reports. Under new management, it features an in-depth report on a Lincs. coast case, a comparison of Fifties SF with ufological happenings, and discussions on Sunderland Family and Jimmy Goddard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are diverse, encompassing ufology, ancient mysteries, archaeology, mythology, geomancy, and paranormal phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on historical research, the re-examination of ancient sites and artifacts, and the exploration of unexplained events and theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into fringe subjects, providing a platform for various researchers and perspectives, while also offering critical reviews of journals and publications within these fields. The inclusion of letters and reader contributions suggests an engaged readership interested in debating and sharing information on these topics.