Gnome News - No 03 -1979

Magazine Overview

Title: Gnome News
Issue: Newsletter No. 3
Date: April 1979
Publisher: The Gnome Club
Location: West Putford, Devon, England

This issue of Gnome News delves into the world of gnomes, exploring their presence in popular culture, their potential symbolic meanings, and their connection to other paranormal phenomena.

"That's Life" Visits Gnome Reserve

The lead article details the BBC television programme "That's Life" visiting The Gnome Reserve. Interviewer Paul Heiney and a six-member camera crew documented the reserve, with gnomes subsequently appearing in various London locations, including Trafalgar Square and on Richard Whitmore's news desk. The article includes a poem by A. A. Chrimes for Esther Rantzen about gnomes in gardens.

Gnomes and Politics

Ann Atkin explores the idea of gnomes having political significance, suggesting they symbolize the liberation of the human spirit. She discusses psychological forces and concepts, drawing parallels with Carl Gustav Jung's ideas about the subconscious and the 'B region'. Atkin posits that gnomes represent creativity, wholeness, and a balance between egoism and altruism, favoring individual freedom and self-government. She also touches upon the idea of gnomes as links between different planes of existence and their role in enriching the world.

The Cottingley Photos: Winged UFOnauts?

Robert Sheaffer presents an in-depth analysis of the famous Cottingley fairy photographs, taken by two young girls in 1917. He argues that these photographs, initially believed to depict fairies, are actually evidence of UFO occupants. Sheaffer cites the scrutiny by experts, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and photographic analysis by H. Snelling and Kodak, which found no evidence of hoaxing. He suggests that the winged creatures' small size and agility point to a large planet with high gravity, and that their appearance as fairies might have been a deliberate disguise, possibly to avoid detection during World War I when German dirigibles were prevalent.

Sheaffer further speculates that the creatures' interest in plants might indicate a botanical study program, and that their intervention may have been related to the development of deadly weapons like mustard gas. He notes that similar sightings of fairy-like creatures were reported by multiple witnesses at the time, strengthening the argument for their authenticity.

Similar Phenomena

Extracts from a letter by Martin Kottmeyer discuss the similarities between fairy and UFO phenomena, including subgroups like 'sighters' and 'contactees', ambiguous physical evidence, and the emotional spectrum of reactions from the public. Kottmeyer references Leslie Shepard's suggestion of a link and Jacques Vallee's work exploring common motifs in folklore and UFO lore, such as abductions and amnesia. He also mentions Jerome Clark and Loren Coleman's arguments about psychokinetically created evidence and culturally conditioned narratives, citing examples of gnome-like beings and their interactions.

Gnome Writing

A brief piece discusses the idea of 'Gnome Writing' and how it relates to the concept of Gnomes and their connection to the universe, mentioning that the idea is sent by Corlette Will. It also references a book by David Dasey titled "Founding a New Age Community."

How Can We Help the Gnomes?

This section, by Narc Marcus, explores the connection between gnomes and astrology, particularly the fixed signs of the zodiac (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius). It suggests that understanding and working with cosmic cyclical laws, as understood through astrology, can help humans assist gnomes in their work. The article provides guidance on gardening practices aligned with lunar phases for optimal results.

Companion Plants

A detailed chart lists various plants and their companion plants, along with their effects, particularly in relation to deterring pests and improving growth. This section is reproduced with permission from Prevention Magazine.

Chamomile

An article on Chamomile discusses its historical uses, medicinal properties (carminative, sedative, tonic), and its price. It mentions its origin and its historical cultivation in England.

Gnome Stories and Gnome Stones

Several smaller pieces relate personal anecdotes and information about gnomes. One letter describes an encounter with a small, winged figure in a peaceful natural setting, suggesting it brought comfort. Another section explains "Gnome Stones," which are offered to new members of The Gnome Club, and how to use them for psychic insights. It also mentions the practice of psycometry with these stones.

Competitions

Announcements for two competitions are made: one for painting or drawing gnomes playing musical instruments, and another for writing about ways to help the Gnome Club achieve its aim of everyone owning a gnome model. Prizes are offered, and entries are to be sent by July 1, 1979.

Gnome Away From Home

This piece discusses the phenomenon of garden gnome theft, highlighting how these figures become cherished possessions, often considered part of the family. It recounts an instance of a gnome named Jerome being restored after damage and the owner's plans for future travels with the gnome.

Small Ads

A section of small advertisements includes offers for metal gnomes, casting services for gnomes, requests for information on gnome havens and gardens, and the sale of "amulets from the desert" and "story stones."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around gnomes as a subject of fascination, their potential connection to the paranormal (fairies, UFOs), and their symbolic representation of human spirit and creativity. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various perspectives and encouraging reader participation through competitions and membership in The Gnome Club. There is a clear interest in exploring the intersection of folklore, mythology, and unexplained phenomena.

This issue, titled 'Freedom to choose,' focuses on the perceived erosion of medical liberties in the United Kingdom, with a particular emphasis on the challenges faced by alternative medicine practitioners and the public's right to choose their treatments. The magazine features articles on homeopathy and chiropractic, alongside a children's story and a book review.

Freedom to Choose

Pearl Coleman's lead article, 'Freedom to choose,' argues that the public's right to select alternative medical treatments is being curtailed by governmental powers and medical establishments. Coleman cites the controversy surrounding the fluoridation of water in Hampshire, despite local council opposition, as an example of disregard for public wishes. She draws parallels to the suppression of dissidents, highlighting that minor losses of freedom, such as restrictions on alternative remedies through the Medicines Act, are precursors to more significant infringements. The article notes the increasing difficulty for individuals seeking private healthcare, who are not a burden on the state, due to the unavailability of hospital beds and treatments. Concerns are raised about 'unqualified practitioners' and the impending decisions on their practices.

Coleman specifically addresses the situation of homeopathy, noting a government inquiry into its future, prompted by the Conservative Opposition. The aim of this inquiry is to prevent homeopathy from being marginalized within the National Health Service (NHS) due to medical hostility and government inaction. Despite Royal Family support for homeopathy, the Department of Health and Social Security (DHSS) has stated that homeopathic treatment must be available to those who prefer it. However, doctors seeking to add homeopathic qualifications face restrictions, and training is not readily accessible. Few hospitals offer homeopathic treatment, and it is not widely advertised, leaving the public often unaware of its availability. The Council for Post Graduate Medical Education holds a prejudiced view that homeopathic training is not relevant enough to modern practice to warrant financial support for General Practitioners. The article states that three of the five NHS centers providing homeopathic treatment are slated for closure, including the Liverpool Clinic and the small homeopathic hospital in Tunbridge Wells. The Royal London Homoeopathic Hospital is marked for closure in 1982. Readers are urged to write to their MPs and the Prime Minister to protest these closures and preserve the freedom to choose.

Coleman concludes that if the battle for homeopathy is lost, it will only be a matter of time before the only medical choice is allopathic medicine or death. The article mentions that a House of Commons motion supporting homeopathy attracted 150 signatures, and the Faculty of Homoeopathy reports 226 MPs supporting it, urging readers to increase this number.

Chiropractic

Christopher Rowse writes about chiropractic, an integrated system of healthcare not widely known in the UK. He explains that chiropractic focuses on human health and disease processes, with chiropractors considering individuals as integrated beings but paying special attention to spinal mechanics and neurological, muscular, and vascular relationships. Rowse contrasts this with allopathy, which he claims leads to a society dependent on drugs and surgery, often treating symptoms rather than root causes.

The American Chiropractic Association's definition of chiropractic is provided, emphasizing the relationship between structure and function, particularly the spinal column and nervous system, as crucial for health. Chiropractic utilizes the body's inherent recuperative powers and the musculoskeletal system, especially the spinal column and nervous system, for health restoration and maintenance. Chiropractic practices include the adjustment and manipulation of articulations and adjacent tissues, particularly of the spinal column, and the treatment of intersegmental disorders. Patient care also considers environmental, nutritional, and psychotherapeutic factors.

Rowse notes that the origins of therapeutic manipulation are unknown but have existed globally since ancient times. The practice was revived in the United States at the turn of the century and is now internationally recognized with colleges in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. These colleges offer a minimum of four years of residential study, covering basic sciences and clinical practice. Students must pass the same basic science examinations as osteopathic or allopathic physicians. The Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in Bournemouth, England, is mentioned as a recognized college.

Rowse expresses encouragement for the growth of this science-based, wholistic healthcare system that emphasizes preventative medicine and avoids unnecessary drugs and surgery. He believes chiropractic offers more than just symptom numbing or pathological debris removal.

Your Letters

This section features correspondence from readers, primarily expressing appreciation for the 'Gnome Club' and its activities. Several letters express interest in joining 'Gnomes International' and inquire about establishing local chapters. One letter from Taras (Taras Fortuna, Member C 210) humorously requests a grand title for a gnome enthusiast in New Zealand, Mr. Paul Williams, to be presented with pomp and ceremony. Another letter from Trevor Thornton in Victoria, Australia, seeks details about the Gnome International organization and the possibility of starting a chapter there. Barbara Stone from New South Wales, Australia, shares her belief in 'Little People' and her plans to open an herb nursery, wondering about the possibility of including gnomes in her garden. Allan Grise from California, USA, expresses his belief in gnomes, recounting a personal encounter and eagerly awaiting 'Gnomesque literature.'

Gnome Colony at Blackgang Chine, Isle of White

This article, by Jacqueline V. Laidlaw, describes the gnome colony at Blackgang Chine Gardens on the Isle of Wight. The gnomes, who have resided there since 1934, are depicted as industrious, engaged in fishing and various chores. They are also shown taking leisure breaks, smoking pipes, and contemplating life. The article highlights their significant charitable work, having collected over £10,000 since 1934 for various charities, predominantly the Cancer Research Fund. Visitors are invited to donate funds for the gnomes to 'gamble' on their behalf, a pastime they reportedly enjoy immensely. The article details their winter routine of retiring to their workshop for new clothes and rest, preparing for the following summer. Advice is given to visitors on how to interact with gnomes, including not pointing at them, not dropping litter, and speaking softly to protect their sensitive ears.

Especially for Children: Amy's Adventures with The Magic Millstone

This is a serialized children's story. Chapter II, 'Gnomes to the Rescue,' continues Amy's adventures. After discovering the 'Magic Millstone' and traveling back 100 years, Amy meets a charming family of miller gnomes, including Kernel. She wishes to visit the Victorian family living in her house and ride in their trap. Kernel agrees, and they travel to the cottage where Amy meets Kernel's twin sisters, Holly and Elderberry (the 'Corn Dollies'), and their families, including gnome infants Pod and Pip. While waiting for the trap, Amy gets lost in a cornfield and is rescued by the 'Corn Fairy,' a tiny golden man. The Corn Fairy informs Kernel of Amy's whereabouts, and Victoria, the youngest daughter of the Victorian family, is tasked with relaying the message to her father without mentioning the fairy folk. Amy receives a tiny golden ear of wheat as a gift from the Corn Fairy before returning to her own time, with Kernel advising her to let the Magic Millstone build up energy before her next visit.

Chapter III, 'High Pitched Squeaky Voice,' continues Amy's story. Lost and frightened in the cornfield, Amy is comforted by the Corn Fairy, who introduces himself and explains he will get help. The Corn Fairy summons a large blackbird, mounts it, and flies off to find Kernel. They return shortly with Kernel and his family, who had been alerted by Amy's 'Gnome Stone.' Kernel explains that Victoria will inform her father about Amy's location. Amy receives a remembrance gift of a tiny golden ear of wheat from the Corn Fairy. Upon returning to her own time, Amy is reunited with her family and reflects on her extraordinary adventure, promising to visit her gnome friends again.

Book Review: Fairy Paintings

This review discusses the book 'Fairy Paintings' by Beatrice Phillpotts, published by Ash and Grant Ltd. The reviewer describes it as a superb gift, particularly for those who appreciate gnomes and 'The Little People.' The book features 40 full-page color reproductions of paintings by artists such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, William Blake, Henry Fuseli, Richard Dadd, Richard Doyle, Sir John Millais, Sir Edwin Landseer, Sir Joseph Noel Paton, and General W. J. Chamberlayne. The review includes anecdotes about some of the paintings and artists, such as William Blake's account of a fairy funeral and the high value of Reynolds' 'Puck.' The book's dimensions are 8½" x 12", with ten pages of text and 24 smaller black and white reproductions. The reviewer concludes that it is a 'must' and 'well worth while.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the importance of personal freedom, particularly in healthcare choices, and the value of alternative and natural approaches to health. The magazine champions the rights of individuals to choose treatments outside the conventional medical system, highlighting the struggles of homeopathy and chiropractic. There is a strong undercurrent of concern about governmental overreach and the potential loss of individual liberties. The inclusion of the children's story about gnomes suggests an editorial stance that values nature, harmony, and perhaps a touch of magic and wonder, contrasting with the more serious tone of the health articles. The book review further reinforces an interest in the fantastical and the 'Little People.' The overall stance appears to be one of advocating for individual choice, questioning established authorities, and celebrating the less conventional aspects of life and health.