Ley Hunter - 1970 no 14

Magazine Overview

Title: The Ley Hunter
Issue: 14
Date: December 1970
Publisher: P. Screeton
Country: United Kingdom
Type: Non-profit making magazine

Lead-In

The editorial section, titled "LEAD-IN," notes the steady rise in subscriptions to "The Ley Hunter," with most readers renewing their subscriptions and many praising the magazine. However, it also acknowledges the existence of "beachcombers" who find snippets of information but do not integrate them into a cohesive whole, and those who disapprove of the inclusion of UFOs in their studies. The editor expresses a commitment to serving a core group of free-thinking individuals unfettered by preconceived notions about prehistoric man, for whom the magazine's production is a pleasure and a duty.

One of the Durham Zodiacs

This article by Tom Cole introduces his contact with "The Ley Hunter" through John Michell and expresses relief that such organizations exist. Cole has a long-standing interest in natural sciences and ancient practices, having left full-time employment in 1966 to study subjects that show evidence of man's destiny. His main task involves reclassifying nature according to a "zodiac rule," believing popular astrology has made errors. Cole recounts an experience on New Year's Eve, 1969, where he observed a large ball of fire moving towards his home. Using a celestial chart, he determined its path and angle, linking it to a place called "Langley Castle." Subsequent map work revealed a coincidence between celestial alignments and terrestrial features, with specific stars in constellations corresponding to mounds, springs, and other land features. He notes that place names and pub names also align with this celestial mapping. Cole recommends a procedure for others interested in mapping these "zodiacs" using compasses and maps, suggesting specific points like "the Middles" as a center and "Iveston" as the vernal equinox. He laments that the "Stanley Zodiac" is being destroyed and urges a focus on letting the natural force return.

The (Tentative) Fleet Shot Hill Zodiac

In this article, Paul Screeton recounts a visit from Tom Cole, who showed him evidence for the Stanley Zodiac. This visit inspired Screeton to investigate a potential second North-East zodiac, the "Fleet Shot Hill Zodiac." He emphasizes that this is a tentative finding due to time constraints, the magazine's workload, and weather conditions. Screeton details preliminary findings, identifying potential zodiacal figures in the area around Fleet Shot Hill, including Scorpio (linked to Short Cake Hill and Hart Church), Leo (Pawton Hill and Crookfoot Reservoir), Capricorn (Bleachery Dene), and Libra (Dove Cote and surrounding becks). He notes that previously only four confirmed zodiacs were known, making the discovery of two in one county "disturbing" due to the implication of many more such sites. He speculates that the land itself might produce these figures, possibly influenced by cosmic rays and ley currents, representing heavenly bodies.

The Implications

This section discusses the broader implications of the discovered zodiacs. The existence of multiple zodiacs suggests they are more common than previously thought. The time-consuming nature of their creation and the possibility that natural features are modified to fit these patterns lead Screeton to believe that cosmic rays and ley currents play a role in activating these figures, which represent heavenly bodies. He suggests that interplanetary influences might shape the landscape, potentially placing geographical and geological academics in a similar position to how archaeologists currently view ley hunters.

ZODIACS BIBLIOGRAPHY

This section provides a bibliography of books and articles related to zodiacs and ley lines. Books listed include works by K.E. Maltwood on Glastonbury's Temple of the Stars and Somerset Giants, and "Man Among Mankind" by Brinsley le Poer Trench. Articles cited are from "The Ley Hunter" itself (on the Nuthampstead and Stanley Zodiacs), "Gandalf's Garden," "The Guardian," and "Prediction." It also mentions a three-part series on the Welsh Zodiac by Lewis Edwards and a booklet on the Glastonbury Zodiac.

The Northern Entrance to the "Kingdom of Logos" Identified?

Kenneth Knight explores the significance of Bristol as a location on the route between Wales and the "Kingdom of Logros" (or "Logos"). He references Alfred Watkins's "The Old Straight Track" and church alignments, noting Blaize Castle as a site for Beltane fires. Knight discusses the area's connection to Arthurian legends and mentions Comyns Beaumont's work on the Somerset Zodiac, which encompassed Bristol and Aust. He highlights the alignment of ancient "castle" sites with astronomical events like solstices and Pleiades festivals.

Celebration of Winter Solstice

An announcement for a Winter Solstice celebration, "Alban Arthuan," at the Alliance Hall in London on December 21st, featuring a Sword Dance by the Hammersmith Morris Men and distribution of mistletoe. Admission is 3/6.

Leys and Orthotenies Symposium

Paul Screeton reports on his experience at a symposium organized by the British Unidentified Flying Objects Research Association. He describes his initial nervousness speaking in public and the symposium's focus on leys and orthoteny. Brinsley le Poer Trench chaired the event, and John Michell provided an introduction to leys as paths of current. Philip Heselton discussed a grid pattern over England believed to be significant, emphasizing the need for an "inspirational" approach backed by science. Jimmy Goddard presented evidence linking leys and UFOs. Screeton discussed the Durham zodiacs and suggested that UFOs might use leys for spiritual guidance rather than propulsion, potentially leading us to realize the power of leys. He also mentioned the possibility of encountering ghosts, elementals, and UFOs at ley points. The session was lively, and the evening was deemed valuable in making a case for leys. The report also lists several notable attendees and contributors.

The Vie Over Ivory Towers

This section details "The Ley Hunter's" and John Michell's attempts to gain recognition for ley systems from orthodox archaeologists, which have thus far proved abortive. The article outlines a step-by-step account of their efforts. An article by John Michell on Megalithic alignments in Cornwall, published in "The Ley Hunter," was sent to Dr. Glyn Daniel, editor of "Antiquity," for comment. Upon learning that Dr. Daniel had criticized ley hunters, Screeton obtained a copy of "Antiquity." Dr. Daniel's response is quoted extensively, where he dismisses ley hunters, John Michell, and Professor Borst as part of "extravagant nonsense" and belonging to the "lunatic fringe of archaeology." Daniel acknowledges receiving "The Ley Hunter" but states Michell's article did not convince him, and he would not print an advertisement for the magazine, aligning with his predecessor's policy of not advertising books considered part of the "lunatic fringe."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "The Ley Hunter" consistently explores the connection between ancient earthworks, landscape features (particularly "zodiacs"), and unexplained phenomena like UFOs. There is a clear theme of challenging established archaeological paradigms and advocating for a more open, speculative approach to understanding the past and its potential connections to modern mysteries. The magazine positions itself as a platform for those who think outside conventional boundaries, even in the face of criticism from academic institutions. The editorial stance is one of persistent advocacy for the significance of ley lines and related phenomena, aiming to integrate them into a broader understanding of human history and consciousness.

Title: The Ley Hunter
Issue: 10 (Volume D4)
Date: October 9, 1970 (raw date)
Publisher: John Michell
Content Focus: This issue delves into a contentious debate surrounding megalithic alignments in Cornwall, featuring correspondence and commentary that critiques the established archaeological community. It also touches upon historical depictions that resemble UFOs and broader themes of academic integrity.

The Megalithic Alignment Controversy

The central narrative revolves around an article written by John Michell for "The Ley Hunter" concerning megalithic stone alignments in West Cornwall. Michell aimed to demonstrate that astronomical alignments, previously identified by Sir Norman Lockyer, were more significant and extensive than commonly accepted, continuing beyond stone circles. He proposed that these alignments were not coincidental and suggested that many undocumented stones should be surveyed.

Dr Glyn Daniel, editor of "Antiquity," was sent Michell's article for comment and found it unconvincing. In response, Michell made a public offer: he would pay £50 to a charity of Dr Daniel's choice if a representative nominated by Daniel could not be convinced of the alignments' existence. Conversely, if the representative was convinced, a factual article would be published in "Antiquity." Michell also offered to cover all expenses for a meeting.

Dr Daniel, in his reply of October 1st, acknowledged the proposal but suggested Michell consult experts Lady Fox (University of Exeter) and Professor Charles Thomas (University of Leicester) for their judgments. He stated his trust in their opinions.

Michell then contacted Lady Fox and Professor Thomas. Professor Thomas, citing academic and public duties, declined to examine the evidence in detail, suggesting Michell approach someone else. Lady Fox commented that a straight line is the shortest distance between two points and that prehistoric monuments are not necessarily contemporary, a response Michell found obscure and possibly an attempt to avoid compromising her position.

Dr Daniel later wrote to Michell, stating that Lady Fox had sent him Michell's letter. Daniel accused Michell of misrepresenting his (Daniel's) statements, specifically denying he had promised to publish an article in "Antiquity" or stated that Lady Fox was an expert on Cornish Alignments. Daniel concluded by stating the correspondence was to end.

Michell, in his commentary, frames this episode as a "ridiculous episode" reflecting poorly on academic scholarship and integrity. He argues that Dr Daniel's refusal to consider the evidence, despite his editorial stance on open-mindedness, was a direct contradiction. Michell points out that his claims are based on the 6-inch Ordnance Survey map, which is generally accepted as accurate.

Criticism of the Archaeological Establishment

Michell expresses strong criticism of the archaeological profession. He suggests that many academics are intimidated by their establishment, fearing to consider unpopular facts or theories for fear of repercussions, citing the treatment of Watkins and Lethbridge. He argues that Dr Daniel's behavior was deceitful and that archaeologists, in general, are not scientists concerned with discovering truth, but rather are often influenced by outdated and unfounded theories.

He specifically criticizes Dr Daniel's recommendations for reading material, suggesting that Daniel's own works are based on false assumptions and unfounded theories, as demonstrated by Professor Thom. Michell contends that many academic books on archaeology are practically valueless and actively pernicious, leading to the destruction of ancient sites through clumsy excavation. He notes a lack of comprehension of recent developments within the field, exemplified by Dr Daniel praising a review that relied on the discredited Maxıst theorist Gordon Childe's views on megalithic peoples' capabilities.

Other Discussions and Mentions

Historical UFO Depiction

In a section detailing a visit to Cambridge, the author recounts seeing a painting by Aert de Gelden (1645-1727) in the Fitzwilliam Art Gallery. Titled "The Baptism of Christ," the painting depicts Jesus in a river, illuminated by rays from a yellow/green disc, with strong light flowing from four points. The author notes that this image strongly resembles a conventional discoid UFO and is significant because it predates 1727, suggesting such phenomena may have been depicted much earlier than commonly believed.

Academic Disagreements and Skepticism

The issue includes quotes that highlight skepticism and resistance to new ideas. Donald Maxwell's quote from 1932 suggests that gatherings of learned men can be contentious, with incidents requiring police separation, indicating a lack of unanimity on interpreting ancient works. T.C. Lethbridge's quote, "I find it takes about twenty years before people believe anything I say," reflects the difficulty of introducing novel concepts.

Upcoming Content

The "Next Month" section previews articles on the Pumpsaint Zodiac, astral projection, leys, and UFOs, as well as reviews of books on the past, UFOs, and witchcraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "The Ley Hunter" strongly advocates for a more open-minded and evidence-based approach to archaeology, criticizing the perceived insularity and dogmatism of the academic establishment. It champions independent research and challenges established orthodoxies, particularly in the field of megalithic studies. The inclusion of the Aert de Gelden painting and the discussion of UFOs suggest an editorial stance that is receptive to unconventional interpretations and phenomena, while also highlighting the potential for historical evidence to challenge current understanding.