Lantern - No 33-34

Magazine Overview

Title: LANTERN
Issue: Number 33/34
Date: Summer 1981
Publisher: Borderline Science Investigation Group

This issue of LANTERN, a quarterly magazine dedicated to East Anglian mysteries and curiosities, presents a special double Summer issue due to unforeseen circumstances delaying the Spring edition. The editor, Ivan Bunn, apologizes for the delay and explains that this combined issue allows for a more substantial presentation of articles.

Introduction

Ivan Bunn, the editor, begins by apologizing for the delay in publishing the Spring edition, attributing it to personal circumstances. He announces that this 'double Summer issue' is being released a few weeks later than usual to compensate. This larger format has allowed for the inclusion of a full-length article by Mike Burgess about the Norfolk giant, Tom Hickathrift. Bunn also mentions that a planned article detailing discoveries about an apparition seen on the AI2 near Lowestoft has been postponed to the next issue due to lack of space, despite recent interesting findings. Furthermore, he announces a significant change in the magazine's format for the Autumn issue, which will be produced in A5/litho. This change is intended to reduce postage and handling costs while improving the presentation of articles, especially drawings and illustrations. Bunn concludes by urging readers to continue submitting articles, press cuttings, and other contributions to ensure LANTERN can continue to cover a wide range of East Anglian curiosities.

The Norfolk Giant: Tom Hickathrift

This extensive article by M. Burgess delves into the legend of Tom Hickathrift, the traditional giant of the Norfolk Marshland. Burgess aims to lay the foundations for a deeper study into the origins of this folklore figure, who is mentioned in various local folklore works but has not been the subject of a comprehensive investigation.

The majority of the tales are set in the western corner of Norfolk, in an area known as 'Marshland Fen'. The article traces the legend back to its earliest printed mention in John Weever's 'Ancient Funerall Monuments' (1631). Weever recounts a tradition where Tom Hickathrift intervened in a conflict between the inhabitants of the 'Seven Towns of Marshland' and their landlord over land rights. In this version, Tom uses a cart axle and wheel as weapons to defeat the landlord and his men, securing the villagers' rights.

A divergence in the narrative appears in early chapbooks, such as 'The History of Thomas Hickathrift' (printed between 1660 and 1690). This version describes Tom as a giant or ogre who lived in a cave and was eventually defeated by a young man named Tom Hickathrift. In this tale, Tom uses his cart's axle and wheel as a sword and shield to slay the twelve-foot-tall giant. This version became more popular over time, overshadowing the landlord-defeat narrative.

The article explores the historical context, noting that the 'Seven Towns' were common land. It discusses the physical description of Tom as a child, noting his immense size. The chapbook versions continue with Tom's exploits after defeating the giant, including finding a hoard of gold, building a house, and traveling widely. He is described as participating in local festivities and engaging in further conflicts, such as defeating robbers and a tinker in a stave battle. Later chapbook versions add a second part where Tom and his friend Henry the Tinker help put down a rebellion and are knighted by the King.

Burgess also examines the curious role-reversal attributed to Sir William Dugdale, who in his 1662 work 'The History of Imbanking...' allegedly portrays Hickathrift as the owner of the Smeeth common-land, defending it against villagers. Burgess suggests this is a misreading of Weever's account.

The article further investigates the 'Giant's Grave' mound at the Smeeth and its associated stone cross, known as 'Hickathrift's Candlestick'. It traces the complex and often contradictory history of this cross, noting its presence at the Smeeth, its alleged removal to Terrington St. John, and its subsequent appearances and disappearances in various locations, including Tilney All Saints and Terrington St. Clement. The article highlights the confusion surrounding its exact whereabouts and history, involving multiple stones and conflicting accounts from various sources and directories.

Other aspects of the legend discussed include an incident where Tom kicks a football out of sight and throws a hammer (or ball) significant distances, leaving marks in church walls. The article notes how these tales have been embellished and altered by oral tradition over time, with variations in distances and outcomes.

Mystery Surrounds Eerie Turning of a Stone Cross in Swaffham

This section reports on a peculiar phenomenon in Swaffham's parish churchyard, where a gravestone of Miss Ella Morse, dating from 1852, has been moving. The white stone cross, situated between the Sexton's House and the church, has turned 90 degrees to face north to south, contrasting with all other crosses. This turning has been observed over the past seven years by the church sexton, Mr. Frederick Sandell, and his friends.

Local historian Mr. Reg Drake is investigating the history of Miss Ella Morse. His research indicates she was the daughter of a Swaffham brewer, and her family commissioned stained glass and brass memorials in the church in her memory. Drake speculates that these gifts might have been an attempt to ease the family's conscience, questioning if Ella was 'mad' or if she did something that required expiation. He notes that the inscription on her memorial is similar to words chanted at the burial of witches to protect against them.

Other Experiences

Anne Clarke's Sighting: The issue details an experience of Anne Clarke, who on December 28th, 1980, saw two figures dressed in long, voluminous cloaks or habits, with cowled faces, standing on a fence by the AI2 road near Blythburgh. The figures held white cards or similar objects. Nobody else in the car saw them, and they disappeared when Anne looked again. This sighting prompted a return trip to the location to investigate potential explanations.

Geoffrey Waterson's Experience: A gentleman named Geoffrey Waterson recounted a disturbing experience while hitchhiking near Blythburgh. He suddenly felt frightened, nauseous, and depressed, with his hair standing on end, but these feelings vanished as quickly as they appeared after a few yards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on local folklore, legends, and unexplained phenomena within East Anglia. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and investigation into these mysteries, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of information. The publication aims to preserve and explore local history and curiosities, as evidenced by the detailed exploration of the Tom Hickathrift legend and the reporting of contemporary unexplained events like the ghost sighting and the moving stone cross.

Title: Fortean Times
Issue: No. 37
Date: October 1981
Price: £1.50

This issue of Fortean Times delves into a variety of unusual phenomena, focusing on the legendary giant Tom Hickathrift, UFO sightings, and the intriguing concept of animal precognition.

The Legend of Tom Hickathrift

The main feature explores the complex origins and evolution of the Tom Hickathrift legend. The article traces the story from its earliest mentions, including the gravestone at Tilney All Saints, and examines various theories about its basis. A central argument posits that the legend is rooted in the historical figure of Sir Frederick de Tylney, a knight renowned for his strength and stature who lived in the 12th century. Evidence is presented from historical texts like Hakluyt's 'English Voyages' and Blomefield's 'History of Norfolk', which link Sir Frederick to feats of valour and a possible connection to the Tilney family. The article discusses how Sir Frederick's story may have been embellished and merged with local folklore, potentially influenced by tales of other champions like Hay and Grettir the Strong, and the 'wicked landlord' trope common in chapbooks.

Various etymological theories for the name 'Hickathrift' are explored, with the author finding most dubious. The name is presented as a corruption or variant of 'Frederick', possibly 'Hycophric' or 'Hicothrift'. The article also touches upon less likely theories, such as Hickathrift being a solar deity or a symbol of the sun-god, and dismisses the idea that the gravestone at Tilney All Saints is the original tomb, suggesting it's a later replacement.

UFO News: A CE3 Near Woodbridge?

This section details an investigation into an alleged UFO landing and Close Encounter of the Third Kind (CE3) in Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, in early 1981. The investigation, led by Dot Street and Brenda Butler, involved interviews with locals, the Base Commander of RAF Bentwaters, and forestry workers. Reports suggest an object with three legs landed, and 'entities' were seen interacting with it. Communication between these 'entities' and base personnel was also reported. The investigation faced difficulties due to witnesses being reluctant to speak, possibly due to government involvement and fear of job loss.

Several accounts are presented: a farmer near Rendlesham Forest was woken by his restless cattle on the night of December 28th, 1980, witnessing a bright sky and unusual noise, leading to an investigation by RAF Woodbridge. Another account from early February 1981 describes an alleged landing witnessed by multiple people, with 'entities' and communication with USAF personnel. An anonymous caller provided directions to the alleged landing site, and a Forestry Commission worker corroborated the event, mentioning a farmer who heard a loud noise and saw a bright light on December 29th, 1980, prompting an RAF investigation.

Precognition in Animals

The issue includes a section on 'Precognition', focusing on instances where animals appear to foretell impending disasters. Several examples are cited:

• Earthquake of April 22nd, 1884 (Essex): Bees stopped working, cattle lay close together, and fish were absent from rivers before the earthquake.
• World War II Air Raids: The mascot cat 'Blitz' at Westminster Central Warden's Post behaved erratically on the night of a great fire raid.
• World War II Rocket Attack: During a performance of 'Merrie England', a cat in the actress's arms became increasingly agitated, shortly before a V-2 rocket fell nearby.
• San Francisco Earthquake of 1906: Horses and dogs in a livery stable and a dog pound showed signs of restlessness the night before the earthquake.
• Agadir Earthquake (1960): Animals in a protection society's care started howling and fled their building.

The article discusses the possibility of animals having a 'sixth sense', possibly due to more acute hearing detecting premonitory shocks, though it notes this doesn't explain all cases, such as the V-2 rocket incident.

Notes and Queries

This section contains brief reports on various fortean topics:

• No. 75 GHOSTS: Mentions a hooded monk and a white horse in Bradfield St. George.
• No. 76 TRADITION: Recounts a story about 'bloody water dykes' in East Anglia, possibly related to war remains.
• No. 77 FORTEANA: Quotes a burial register from Kelsale, Suffolk, describing a 'monster' child born in 1545 with two necks and heads.
• No. 78 HIDDEN TREASURE: Mentions a legend of a gold mine near Bacton, Suffolk.
• No. 79 GHOST: Reports a haunting at Eather's Barn in Debenham, Suffolk, by an old woman without a head.
• No. 80 TRADITION: Describes a monument in Bradwell, Norfolk, depicting William Vesey and his family, with a legend of a lost infant brother.
• No. 80 GHOST: Details a haunting at Womil Hall near Mildenhall by a female ghost named Elizabeth Rainbow.
• No. 82 TRADITION: Relates a village legend from Cockfield, Suffolk, stating that no primroses will grow or thrive there due to a plague.

Publications and Events

The issue also includes advertisements for various journals and publications related to ancient mysteries, UFOs, and fortean phenomena, such as 'Fortean Times Occasional Paper No. 1: WILD MAN', 'SKYWATCH', 'ANCIENT MYSTERIES', 'THE LEY HUNTER', 'ZETETIC SCHOLAR', and 'FORTEAN TIMES'. It also announces the formation of the Cambridgeshire Ancient Mysteries Group and its upcoming publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, folklore, and alleged paranormal events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting on these subjects, presenting evidence and theories without necessarily endorsing them as fact. The inclusion of 'Notes and Queries' and the 'UFO News' section indicates a focus on current reports and ongoing research within the fortean community.

This document appears to be a section from a magazine issue, likely focused on folklore, local legends, and potentially unexplained phenomena. The content includes detailed references to historical texts and local records, suggesting a scholarly yet accessible approach to the subject matter.

The Legend of Tom Hickathrift

The text explores the origins of the legend of Tom Hickathrift, a figure associated with local folklore. The author posits that the myth may have originated from various seemingly unrelated objects and incidents. Specifically mentioned are ancient crosses and figures on church walls, such as one in Walpole, which is speculated to be Tom himself. The author notes that this figure on the church wall might be a monument to something Tom did, possibly related to his fondness for playing football and kicking the ball with unusual force.

Another significant location discussed is Tilney, where a huge coffin with a carved lid is described. The carvings are interpreted as resembling a pair of wheels and an axle, leading to the speculation that this is the grave of Tom Hickathrift. The author suggests that Sir Frederick de Tilney is the most likely progenitor for the character of Tom Hickathrift, describing him as a strong man for a strong myth.

Acknowledgements and References

The author expresses gratitude to a considerable number of individuals and institutions for their assistance and information. These include:

• Mr. W.J. Chambers of Saffron Walden
• Rev. C.N. Bales of Marshland St. James
• Rev. A.J. Clements of Tilney All Saints
• Mr. L.V. Grinsell of Bristol
• Mr. & Mrs. I. Clayton Caldwell of Terrington Court
• Ms. Rosalinda M.C. Hardiman (former Curator of the Wisbech and Fenland Museum)
• The Folklore Society
• Miss I.B. McClure of the British Archaeological Association
• Norwich Local Studies Library & the Norfolk Record Office
• Mr. E. Dowman (Assistant to the York Herald of the College of Arms)
• Mr. A.J. Camp (Director of the Society of Genealogists)
• Mr. F.H. Thompson (General Secretary of the Society of Antiquaries of London)
• Lincoln Central Library & Lincoln Castle Archives
• Mr. J. Graham-Campbell (Secretary of the Society for Medieval Archaeology)
• Dr. L.A.S. Butler (Head of the Department of Archaeology at the University of Leeds)

A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing various historical and folkloric works, including:

• John Weever's 'Ancient Funerall Monuments' (1631)
• Sir Henry Spelman's 'Icenia, sive Norfolciae Descripto Topographica' (c.1640)
• Rev. Thomas Cox's 'Magna Brittania Norfolk' (1720)
• Francis Blomefield's 'History of Norfolk' (1808)
• Sir William Dugdale's 'History of Imbanking Divers Fens & Marshes' (1662)
• Anonymous works on 'The History of Thomas Hickathrift' (c.1660–90 and 18th century)
• H.J. Hillen's 'The Hillen Mss' (c.1891)
• A. Pendle's letter in East Anglian Magazine (1965)
• C. Marlowe's 'Legends of the Fenland People' (1926)
• G.L. Gomme's edited works on Thomas Hickathrift and topographical history
• S.H. Miller & S.B.J. Skertchly's 'The Fenland Past & Present' (1878)
• W.A. Dutt's 'The Norfolk & Suffolk Coast' (1909) and 'Highways & Byways in East Anglia' (1923)
• E. Wortley's letter in East Anglian Magazine (1955)
• Basil Cozens-Hardy's 'Norfolk Crosses' (1934)
• Kelly's Directory of Norfolk (1925)
• Enid Porter's 'Cambs. Customs & Folklore' (1969) and 'Folklore of East Anglia' (1974)
• W.S. Parsons' letter in East Anglian Magazine (1955)
• T.C. Lethbridge's 'Gogmagog: The Buried Gods' (1957)
• A. Randell's 'Sixty years a Fenman' (1966)
• 'Folklore Myths & Legends of Britain' (1973)
• Anthony Roberts' 'Sowers of Thunder' (1978)
• N. Pevsner's 'Buildings of England - North-west Norfolk' (1962)
• Janet & Colin Bord's 'The Secret Country' (1978)
• Sir Francis Palgrave's contribution to the Quarterly Review (c.1814)
• William White's 'History, Gazetteer & Directory of Norfolk' (1883)
• Dr. L.A.S. Butler's letter (1980)
• Frederick Burgess's 'English Churchyard Memorials' (1963)
• E.G. Withycombe's 'Oxford Dictionary of English Christian Names' (1971)
• William Camden's 'Remains Concerning Britain' (1605)
• Richard Hakluyt's 'The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffics & Discoveries of the English Nation' (1589)
• Arthur Mee's 'The King's England - Norfolk' (1940)
• Pishey Thompson's 'History & Antiquities of Boston' (1856)
• Walter Rye's 'Norfolk Families' (1913)
• J.R.R. Tolkien's 'On Fairy-stories' (1964)

A Moving Headstone

The latter part of the document describes a peculiar incident involving a headstone belonging to Ella Morse, who died in September 1752 at the age of 37. The inscription on the stone reads: "Ella Morse, September 8, MDCCLII, aged XXXVII. By thy Cross and Passion, By thy precious Death, Good Lord deliver us." Reg Drake suggests that the recent moving of headstones might mean the cross's action is not due to Ella Morse herself, but rather that her cross might be lying on the grave of another due to the reorganisation of the stones.

However, Mr. Sandell dismisses any "unearthly speculation," believing there is likely a simple scientific reason behind the phenomenon. He is certain that the turning is not due to vandals, stating that the stone is "far too heavy to be moved by anyone." He advises waiting and observing, suggesting a return in a year or two to see if any further movement occurs. He is noting the current position of the stone and waiting with others in the town for the next sign of movement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this excerpt are local folklore, historical legends (specifically Tom Hickathrift), and unexplained phenomena (the moving headstone). The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent research, grounded in historical evidence and academic references, while also remaining open to investigating and reporting on unusual occurrences, albeit with a preference for rational explanations over supernatural ones. The author's detailed acknowledgements and extensive bibliography underscore a commitment to thoroughness and credibility.