THE LEY HUNTER

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: NUMBER FOUR
Date: FEBRUARY 1970
Price: One shilling

This issue of The Ley Hunter delves into the ongoing debate surrounding prehistoric civilization in Britain and the controversial concept of ley systems. It addresses recent criticisms from figures like Dr. Glyn Daniel and Ian Rodger, while also highlighting the research of Professor Alfred Watkins, Professor Lyle Borst, and Professor Thom. The magazine explores the intersection of archaeology, astronomy, and ancient beliefs, with a particular focus on the alignment of churches and megalithic sites.

Lead-in and Criticisms

The issue opens with a "LEAD-IN" section that sets the stage for a discussion on the scientific and archaeological scrutiny of ley systems. It mentions that the hypothesis of a scientifically minded prehistoric civilization in Britain, linked to the ley system, has faced severe attacks. The November 27th issue of The Listener is cited as publishing three critical items: reviews of John Michell's "The View Over Atlantis" and Professor Alexander Thom's "Megalithic Sites in Britain," along with an article by Ian Rodger.

Ian Rodger's Perspective

Ian Rodger is presented as a more sympathetic voice towards ley hunting, though he notes reservations about the interest shown by the "hippy underground." The article reproduces parts of his analysis, which begins by discussing headless horsemen legends and their connection to church building. Rodger then outlines Alfred Watkins's theory on leys and recounts his own discovery of numerous churches on sight-lines drawn from Bre Hill to beacon hills in the Chilterns. He describes a complex lattice of sight-lines in the Vale of Aylesbury, suggesting that the alignment of so many churches might exceed statistical probability. Rodger posits that these sight-lines could have served as an efficient means of direct-sight communication for the English during the period of Danish invasion, noting that churches were often built on pagan sites.

Rodger expresses concern that the existence of these sight-lines has become associated with the "hippy underground," leading to a mythology that links trackways with UFOs. He believes this false mythology obscures the work of ancestors and deters orthodox archaeology from serious study.

Professor Borst's Astronomical Alignments

The article then introduces Professor Lyle Borst, a professor of astronomy and physics at New York State University. Borst became involved in archaeology after observing that a temple of Hera in Argos, Greece, aligned with the vernal equinox and the star Spica in 500 B.C. Spica is noted as one of the red stars observed by Megalithic man.

Borst's research extended to Canterbury Cathedral, where he found the axis of the choir deviates from the nave's axis. He suggests that such deviations in church alignments are not due to solar variations but to alignments with stars. Borst's calculations indicate that Betelgeuse might be the star for Canterbury, and the deviations suggest stellar observations between 2300 and 1500 B.C. He also identified similar geometric patterns in the ground plans of cathedrals like Wells, Winchester, Gloucester, and Norwich, classifying them as "Type One" megalithic sites. Lincoln Cathedral showed a "Type Two" pattern.

Borst published a preliminary paper in the magazine "Science," offering mathematical proof for Megalithic occupation of Christian sites, which Rodger found supportive of his own folklore research.

Wing Church and Megalithic Geometry

Rodger writes about his correspondence with Borst, who was interested in horseman legends connected to church building. They met at Wing in Buckinghamshire, where Rodger learned more about Borst's ideas. Rodger discusses Wing Church's site, shape, and history, including its ley alignments and alignment with the star Bellatrix, suggesting Wing might be the oldest continuously used religious site in Britain.

Rodger notes a correlation between the age of Megalithic foundations of churches and the simplicity of their geometry, with later circles exhibiting more complex triangles. Borst suggests that Megalithic man elaborated his circles because he enjoyed the mathematical pleasingness of the shapes, calling it man's "first age of elegance."

Scepticism and Sight-Lines

Rodger acknowledges that sceptics might find these theories far-fetched. He proposes that if churches occupy pagan sites, which were themselves occupied in the Megalithic period, then the complex geometry observed at stellar observation points would likely be accompanied by ground-work. Intermediate points on sight-lines would require repeater stations, possibly marked by distinctive trees or towers. These points would have been maintained by surveyor priests and later occupied by successive peoples for their own rituals.

Rodger emphasizes that statistical analysis is needed to prove that the incidence of churches on sight-lines is more than accidental. Borst's study of the Vale of Aylesbury lattice suggested stellar orientation, leading Rodger to speculate that the Chilterns might have once served as a "gigantic-stellar computer."

He anticipates that his ideas will be dismissed as "wild nonsense" by orthodox archaeologists, citing the history of archaeology as being full of "scholarly scandals."

The Listener Cartoon and Underground Literature

The article mentions a ley cartoon in The Listener by Barry Fantoni, depicting a UFO over Stonehenge, with one hippy telling another about roundabouts on the M4 being built on ancient burial mounds and the possibility of seeing a "headless motorist" on clear nights.

The author expresses bewilderment at the attack on ley theories, particularly from Ian Rodger, given the spiritual awareness of the "youthful dropout element." He notes that while some underground publications like "International Times" have featured articles on leys and UFOs, the direct connection is not widely explored by most hippies. He questions Rodger's sweeping statement about the "hippy underground" and UFOs.

Leys and Respectability

The section "LEYS TO BECOME RESPECTABLE?" addresses why most professional archaeologists are unwilling to research ley theories. The reasons cited include: admitting previous misconceptions, needing to reconsider a lifetime's work, risking career and reputation, inviting derision, and risking a vote of no confidence from students.

However, the article suggests that leys might gain respectability as archaeologists increasingly view stone circles as sophisticated astronomical devices. It references Gerald Hawkins's "Stonehenge Decoded," which proposed Stonehenge as an astronomical computer, and the subsequent debate with Professor R.J.C. Atkinson. Professor Fred Hoyle and Professor Thom also contributed to this discussion, with Atkinson reviewing Thom's book cautiously.

Barbarian Brains and Historical Interpretation

Under the heading "BARBARIAN BRAINS," the article discusses Professor Thom's book, which has gained scholarly standing and an underground reputation. The book is described as a "well-constructed parcel-bomb" that challenges received ideas about British prehistory and the origins of scientific thought. Thom's evidence suggests that principal diameters of stone settings cluster around multiples of a "Megalithic yard" (2.72 feet), which conflicts with current views of contemporary societies. The article argues that rejecting this evidence implies an even greater improbability: that the observed clustering is mere chance.

It is stated that Thom's work points to a high degree of competence in empirical astronomy among ancestors 4,000 years ago. However, the article cautions against taking "ill-considered fantasies" about alignments at Stonehenge or the supposed Megalithic foundation of Canterbury Cathedral seriously. It laments that the "innumeracy of most archaeologists" deters them from detailed examination of Thom's arguments, which are presented scrupulously fairly. The article concludes that these findings compel a questioning of the axiom that systematic observation, measurement, arithmetic, and geometry are solely functions of civilization, suggesting that "barbarians too had brains."

Ian Brice's Commentary

Ian Brice of Balliol College commented on Atkinson's piece in The Listener, questioning whether professors Thom and Atkinson truly believe in a universally enforced unit of length for Megalithic man or if it's a chance phenomenon. Brice suggests that pacing out distances is a simple explanation for marking large areas, and minor variations would cancel out over distance.

Dr. Glyn Daniel's Stance and Rodger's Reply

Dr. Glyn Daniel is mentioned as intending to criticize ley theories in the March issue of Antiquity. Ian Rodger, in a letter to The Listener, expresses his initial hope that separating scientific theories from "wilder theories" in the "hippy world" might persuade orthodox archaeology to broaden its horizons. However, he notes that the views of other laymen, like Mr. Grigson, are shared by many professional archaeologists. Rodger is grateful to the Third Programme and The Listener for providing a forum for the controversy.

Alternative Reviews and Historical Perspective

The article notes that not all reviewers take the professional-centric view. It references reviews of "Chariots of the Gods" by Erich von Daniken and "The Monkey's Tail" by T.C. Lethbridge, which appealed to "speculative minds." Lethbridge, an archaeologist, is described as having an "open and curious mind."

Neglecting Legends and Divergent Thinking

Under the heading "Darwin's theory....", a quote from The Sunday Times of January 18, 1970, is presented, lamenting that educationalists feel we are neglecting speculative intelligence in students. Professor Liam Hudson suggests that modern education rewards conformist thinking over creative thinking, and that Darwin and Einstein might have failed an 11-plus test. The article contrasts the "convergent thinking" tested by traditional IQ tests with the "divergent thinking" encouraged by open-ended questions, noting that those who excel at convergent thinking often stagnate later.

Geoffrey Grigson's Review of "The View Over Atlantis"

Geoffrey Grigson's "shabby review" of "The View Over Atlantis" is presented. Grigson sees "odd people" associated with the book, including Stukeley, John Wood, and Alfred Watkins. He describes the book as synthesizing "theories, dogmas, illuminations, of unreason," combining Glastonbury, Avebury, Stonehenge, Druids, the Great Pyramid, astrology, Atlantis, and UFOs with leys.

Grigson criticizes the book's explanation of leys as pseudo-science combined with pseudo-archaeology, postulating a prehistoric civilization of "spiritual engineers" concerned with a "vital solar force." He dismisses Stonehenge as a "Megalithic engine" for controlling life force and an "astronomical instrument." He also mentions O.G.S. Crawford's refusal to advertise "The Old Straight Track" in Antiquity, agreeing with Crawford that some nonsense relies on megaphones and lacks dialogue.

Grigson disputes Michell's view that Lichfield Cathedral was built on astrological principles, explaining the red stone and the name "Lichfield" as related to local geology and history, not Mars. He finds the book's claims about unity, esoteric knowledge, and the "amiable puerility" of such esotericism boring.

However, the article defends Michell by suggesting that archaeologists are partly to blame for their use of terms like "ritual," "sacred," and "religious" for sites that may have simpler origins. It suggests reading Marc Bloch on history or remembering Gordon Childe's caution against masking ignorance with terms like "religious or magical."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the controversial field of ley lines and their connection to prehistoric civilizations, ancient astronomical practices, and the interpretation of megalithic sites. There is a clear tension between established archaeological views, represented by figures like Dr. Glyn Daniel and R.J.C. Atkinson, and the more speculative theories put forth by researchers like Professor Thom, Professor Borst, and authors like John Michell. The magazine seems to champion the exploration of these alternative theories, even while acknowledging the criticisms and the association with the "hippy underground." The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a broader, more open-minded approach to understanding the past, challenging the perceived conservatism and "innumeracy" within orthodox archaeology. The issue also touches upon the nature of intelligence and education, contrasting convergent and divergent thinking.

This issue of *The Ley Hunter* magazine, dated December 1969, focuses on the ongoing debate surrounding ley lines and their potential connections to UFO phenomena. The publication serves as a platform for exchanging new discoveries and intuitions within this field, while also addressing criticisms and offering diverse perspectives.

Critical Reviews and Counterarguments

The issue opens with a review that expresses strong disapproval of a narrow-minded and rude critique, deeming it "blissful ignorance of Megalithic man's true intelligence and behaviour." This review highlights a perceived pettiness in attacking minor points of suppositions and criticizes the lack of alternative ideas. The author notes that this attitude of superiority is not new, recalling a past incident where a school headmaster questioned their views on ancient Britons versus Romans.

Further critiques of ley line research are presented through references to other publications. W.G. Hoskins's book "Fieldwork in Local History" is cited for its dismissal of Alfred Watkins's work, calling "The Old Straight Track" "the most dangerous" book on old roads and stating it was "based upon a misconception of primitive society, and supported by no evidence."

Another perspective comes from G.B. Berry, who mistakenly attributes an alignment of ancient sites to a Roman signalling network, an article that is nonetheless considered "well worth reading."

The Ordnance Survey's "Field Archaeology" is quoted as stating that the subject of ancient trackways appeals to "amateur field archaeologists" and gives rise to "imaginative writing well divorced from common sense and the plain facts of the case." It suggests that prehistoric man moved freely and that ancient land routes were not necessarily determined by "mark stones" or the paraphernalia of those who believe in the "Old Straight Track."

The Ley System and UFOs

Philip Heselton, a former editor of *The Ley Hunter*, discusses the potential conflict between the "underground, UFO-oriented mystical side" and the "statistical minded side" aiming to convince professional archaeologists of the existence of leys. He advocates for both approaches as valid and valuable.

Dr. J. Cleary-Baker, a known ley skeptic, continues a debate with the magazine's editor and Jimmy Goddard. He asserts that the lack of any attempt to rebut arguments against the ley idea suggests its acceptance is based on belief rather than impartial study. He believes that while one cannot "undiscover" things, pseudo-discoveries can be repudiated and false evidence disproven.

John Michell, a leading champion of the ley system, is featured through a reprinted letter. The editor notes that Michell's book, "The View Over Atlantis," seems to retreat from associating leys and UFOs. Michell's letter suggests that UFO phenomena and prehistoric alignments are related, with UFO sightings having led to the re-examination of the ley system. He acknowledges that the association is hard to prove due to the lack of precise information in UFO reports. Michell proposes that studying prehistoric science and philosophy might be the most rewarding approach to understanding UFOs, as their nature may have been better understood by prehistoric astronomers.

Scientific Scrutiny and Reader Contributions

Dr. Cleary-Baker further questions the scientific basis of some ley arguments, particularly regarding "magnetism." He points out that the term is often applied to materials that are not ferro-magnetic, and that the analogy between quartz in standing stones and crystals in early wireless receivers is flawed. He also corrects an inaccuracy regarding the use of Stonehenge as a sundial, explaining the effect of Earth's elliptical orbit on the sun's meridian transit.

He advises proceeding with research on a "strictly factual basis with the minimum of speculation" to build a reputation for precision.

Letters from readers offer varied opinions. William Garforth finds the issue "particularly interesting." R.D.Y. Perrett expresses a desire for more factual content, stating, "I hope anyone who writes...wil be...extremely factual..." He also notes that contributors are sometimes "damning their case" by ignoring simple physics. R.K. Proctor finds the "fiction section" unsatisfactory but the rest of the magazine "fine."

Upcoming Events and Publications

BUFORA is organizing a lecture in London on November 7th to discuss leys in relation to UFO phenomena, with John Michell, Tony Wedd, Jimmy Goddard, and Paul Screeton on the panel.

Advertisements include John Michell's "The View Over Atlantis" and Maria Reiche's "Mystery on the Desert."

Next Month's Features

• Tony Wedd will discuss how A.J. Dunkin Wedd came to associate leys and UFOs.
• Barbara Crump will present "A Lost Network of Ancient Ways," refuting Roman claims as original builders of the Fosse Way.
• "Circumlibra" will trace "The Ley on which I live" in Yorkshire.

The Science Fiction Section has been dropped to concentrate on leys and orthoteny.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of ley lines, their historical and geographical significance, and their purported connection to UFO phenomena. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages rigorous, fact-based research and critical examination of evidence. While championing the exploration of these subjects, the magazine also provides space for skepticism and detailed critiques, emphasizing the importance of scientific principles and logical inference. The overall tone suggests a commitment to advancing understanding in these fields, even if progress is perceived as slower due to the need for thoroughness and precision.