Ley Hunter - 1970 no 8

Magazine Overview

'The Ley Hunter' is a monthly magazine dedicated to exploring the subject of ley lines and related archaeological and esoteric phenomena. This issue, Number Eight, dated June 1970, is edited by Paul Screeton and published from Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, County Durham. It is presented as a non-profit making magazine, with contributions of articles, letters, and comments being invited.

Lead-In: Critiques and Defenses of Ley Hunting

The 'Lead-In' section addresses a critical article by Professor Glyn Daniel in the March-May quarter issue of 'Antiquity.' The editor defends ley hunters against what is described as Daniel's 'paranoia' and 'fearful narrow-mindedness.' Daniel is criticized for attacking Professor Lyle Borst's 'astro-archaeology,' for his stance on the potential demolition of Wing Church, and for his comments on a B.B.C. talk by Ian Rodger. The editor also notes Daniel's review of Professor R.J.C. Atkinson's work and a 'vitriolic trash' review by Geoffrey Grigson of John Michell's book, 'The View Over Atlantis,' which Daniel lauded as 'brilliant.' Michell's book is described by Daniel as 'one of the dottiest books to have appeared for some while.' The editor expresses a desire for Professor Daniel to write an article for 'The Ley Hunter' to present his conclusions on prehistoric alignments, offering him space to reply.

Authors interested in writing about leys are directed to Michael Balfour of Sago Press and Garnstone Press, who is developing a specialist company for books on subjects relating to leys.

Bats, Ghosts, Old Mother Midnight and the Wishing Stone: Exploring Hart

This article, by Paul Screeton, investigates the village of Hart in County Durham for evidence of the ley system. Despite Ordnance Survey maps showing little prehistoric evidence, the village's landscape suggested it could be a ley centre. Philip Heselton, a former editor of 'The Ley Hunter,' joined Screeton and his wife Pauline on a field trip to study the area. They visited the Saxon church of St Mary Magdalene, noting its 15th Century carving of St George and the Dragon. The article mentions local folklore, including the burial of Ellen Thompson for her wickedness, and three other witches: Allison Lawe, Helen de Inferno, and Old Mother Midnight. It also touches upon local legends of tunnels and a purported prehistoric earthwork known as Kings' Meadow. Brinsley le Poer Trench is quoted regarding the White Hart symbol and its connection to an old religion. The article notes that leys have been connected with UFOs and promises a separate account of Hartlepool area sightings in the next issue.

Why Flying Saucers Followed the Leys

This section features a response from ufologist Philip Rodgers to an inquiry about his alleged conversation with an extraterrestrial regarding leys. Rodgers states that his 'space contacts' did not provide detailed information about leys, but he was told that thousands of years ago, settlements existed along ley lines, and 'space people' had settled on Earth. He explains that spacecraft followed these leys not due to magnetic power, but to contact their own people. Rodgers is currently writing a book, 'The Saucerer's Apprentice,' which he claims will describe his experiences with flying saucers, including recordings from spacecraft and meetings with 'space people.' He asserts that spacecraft are physical and their occupants are human-like, aiming to correct misconceptions about astral entities and other dimensions. The editor, while expressing no doubt about Rodgers's sincerity, poses further questions about the nature of ley energy and the role of 'space people' in ley systems.

Leys and Mathematical Probability

Authored by Tony Northwood, this article introduces an analytical method for quantifying the likelihood of apparent ley alignments occurring by chance. It contrasts the study of leys with more accepted archaeological work on stone circles and Stonehenge, noting that leys are often relegated to the 'crank' province. The method involves a 'grid analysis' technique to develop a general formula based on mathematical probability. The article details the determination of 'mean error' in mark points and the use of a 'field grid' for reference. It presents formulae for calculating the probability of an 'n' point line existing by chance within a grid, and then applies this formula as an example to an apparent alignment found on O.S. sheet No. 147, deriving data such as mean point error, map area, and length of alignment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'The Ley Hunter' strongly advocates for the serious study of ley lines, positioning itself as a counterpoint to mainstream archaeological skepticism, particularly exemplified by Professor Glyn Daniel's criticisms. The magazine champions the work of ley hunters and ufologists, presenting their findings and theories as valid areas of research. There is a clear editorial stance in favor of exploring unconventional connections between ancient sites, earth energies, and UFO phenomena. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and articles, fostering a community of interest in these subjects. The inclusion of a mathematical approach to ley analysis suggests an effort to lend greater scientific rigor to the field, while the discussion on UFOs highlights the magazine's broader interest in unexplained phenomena.

This issue of 'The Ley Hunter' (Volume 2, Issue 4, January 1966) features an in-depth article by R.D.Y. Perrett, B.Sc., detailing the discovery and investigation of a significant alignment of ancient stones and features located at 52° South of West through Fulwood, Sheffield. The magazine also includes a letter from Fred O. Gardner addressing his views on science fiction in UFO publications, an editor's note, and announcements regarding other publications and a proposed new magazine.

AN ALIGNMENT 52° SOUTH OF WEST THROUGH STONES AT FULWOOD, SHEFFIELD.

R.D.Y. Perrett, B.Sc., recounts the intriguing story of his discovery of a 52° South of West alignment in the Fulwood area of Sheffield. The investigation began with initial inklings and inferences, leading to further discoveries, supported by local legend and place-names. The author notes the initial disenchantment when some seemingly ancient features were found to be more recent, but a persistent feeling that something significant lay behind it all drove the research.

How It Began

The investigation started on a moorland ridge west of Sheffield, at an altitude of 1377 feet, where two large rocks, known as the 'Ox Stones,' stand out. Perrett, recalling boyhood observations, considered if these might mark the midwinter sunset. His inquiry led him to discover a wall of construction with large stones set in the ground. At a specific point, three stones, 33 inches high, were found leaning together, likely once a single block. A row of large stones forming a wall extended 165 feet westwards, then turned at an angle of approximately 12° North of West. This direction pointed towards the Greystones-High Storrs high point. The stones were later found to be associated with an Iron Age bead, Romano-British querns, and pottery, now of interest to Sheffield Museum.

First Indication of Alignment

From the middle of the East-West row of stones, Perrett noticed the tower of Fulwood Church, about half a mile east, was in line with the spire of a church in a cemetery in Cemetery Road, further east. The ground slopes down towards Sheffield, providing a clear line of sight. He also found other large blocks of stone embedded in field-walls about 200 yards westwards, on the same alignment. The more westerly of these, designated "Block M," was a massive cube. "Block M" is at an altitude of about 875 feet, and from it, the alignment of the two churches was perfect, with a direction of approximately 6° North of East. A diagram illustrates this stage, identifying "M" as a rock, "N" as another rock, "S" as the wall, "FC" as Fulwood Church, and "CRC" as Cemetery Road Church. The line runs approximately 6° South of West (or North of East).

Extension of Alignment

(A) Westwards: Perrett extended the line westwards on a map. Four miles away, it passed over Stanage Edge. He noted that one rock on the slope below the edge, named "Buckstone," was particularly intriguing as it was the only named rock. Upon visiting the "Buckstone," which is about 24 feet square at the base and 15 feet high, they discovered a faint figure carved on its flat top. This figure, upon closer inspection, was not a man but appeared to be a skeleton, with lines indicating the pelvis, spine, and shoulder blades, and a direction of approximately 34° West of South. The overall length was about 37 inches. Perrett notes that Alfred Watkins' "The Old Straight Track" mentioned other rocks named "Buckstone."

(B) Eastwards: The line was extended eastwards. About two-thirds of a mile east of Cemetery Road Church, it crossed Bramall Lane Football Ground, where a large lump at one corner is noted. One and one-third miles further east, the line crossed a large cemetery, the City Road Cemetery and Crematorium. The latter is on a ridge, and a slight dip in the ridge line was observed from "Block M."

Sunsets and Sunrises

(A) Equinoctial Sunset: From the base of Fulwood Church tower, looking west, the ground slopes down before rising towards "S," "N," and "M." The sun at sunset, at the Equinox, was observed to set in a "high spot" about 60 feet across, at an altitude of 925 feet, with a small grove of trees.

(B) Midsummer Sunrise: From "Block M," the skyline to the Northeast used to be a field-ridge. A builder has since covered this ridge with houses. At Midsummer, the sunrise from "Block M" was over this ridge, where a lane joined two or three other lanes, and the spot of confluence was where the Midsummer sun was seen to rise.

Legend and Local Name

(A) Legend: About 100 yards south of the "high spot" is Fulwood Hall, and about a quarter of a mile Northwest is Bennet Grange. Perrett recalls a boyhood legend of an underground passage between the two, which seemed odd due to the terrain. He notes that Alfred Watkins also found legends of underground passages along alignments, even where the ground dips. While Fulwood Hall and Bennet Grange are not directly on his alignment, they are close by.

(B) Local Name: Across the road from Fulwood Church, to the Southeast, is a cottage named "Goole Green House." In a 1637 survey, it was called "Gold Greene." Watkins associates names containing "Gold" with alignments and sunrises.

Summary So Far

Perrett summarizes the alignment from East to West, listing points: 1, City Road Cemetery; 2, Bramall Lane Football Ground; 3, Cemetery Road Cemetery and Church; 3½, Goole Green and Fulwood Church; 5, Wall of large stones; 6, Large rock in a wall; 7, Large block ("M"); 8, High Spot by Fulwood Hall (Equinox sunset); 9, Line near Bennet Grange (legend of underground passage); 10, Buckstone with incised skeleton and sun. The total end-to-end distance is about nine miles, mostly within Sheffield City boundary.

"Disenchantment"

(A) Fulwood Church: This church was built in 1838 and paid for by Miss Phoebe Silcock. Its site was chosen for visibility from Whitley Wood Hall.

(B) Cemetery Road Cemetery: This cemetery appears to have been started in 1835 by the Sheffield General Cemetery Co., Ltd., on land belonging to Henry Wilson of Westbrook. Initially, only five acres were enclosed.

(C) Inaccuracy of Alignment: Perrett acknowledges inaccuracies. His initial line (Cemetery Road Church, Fulwood Church, Block "M") misses the Buckstone by about 200 yards. He believes the ancients were more accurate. A revised line (6° 10' S. of W.) is proposed. Another line joining the Buckstone to Block "M" (considered the most certain original points) passes through Goole Green but misses Cemetery Road Church by about 65 yards. This line is 5° 30' S. of W. (N. of E.). Both Bramall Lane Football Ground and City Road Cemetery are wide enough that both lines pass through them. Perrett also questions the precise definition of "Equinox" or "sunset" used by ancients, noting that his research suggests "sunset" was when the sun's lower limb touched the skyline. Using the present-day astronomical equinox, the direction of the equinoctial sunset from Goole Green is over 42° S. of W., which does not agree with either proposed line.

Conclusion

Despite the doubts, Perrett still feels there is substance to the alignment. The promontory carrying Fulwood Church, as shown on an 18th-century map, appears artificial. The discovery of the incised skeleton, the legend of the underground passage, and the name "Goole (Gold) Green" all point to something significant, leaving him in an "unsatisfactory state" of belief.

Review: MESSAGE TO POSTERITY

This section discusses the broader implications of ley systems, suggesting they are part of a worldwide system of alignments, akin to the Somerset Zodiac. It quotes Maria Reiche's "Mystery on the Desert," which describes ancient Peruvian monuments with enormous extension and accurate lines, comparable to the Pyramids of Egypt, but viewed from above as flat surfaces with geometric patterns. The author questions the message these patterns convey and notes their clarity from the air, drawing parallels to airfield patterns and the idea of builders guided by "some sort of machine floating in the sky."

The alignments can form triangles, rectangles, and trapezoids, but also represent animals. The article contrasts these with British hill figures and suggests a mixing of geometry and wildlife drawings in prehistoric South American art, revealing harmony between the animate and moments of energy, as seen in leys. Maria Reiche suggests further research into measures and directions of Peruvian, English, and Californian figures might reveal hidden significance, and wonders if Prof. Thom's Megalithic yard could be applied.

The text refutes Alfred Watkins' idea that leys were purely trackways, stating that Nazca alignments could not have been built as footpaths due to the difficulty of climbing plateaus. It is noted that leys mark certain star positions, referencing a statement about a bird's alignment pointing to the December 21st sunrise. The Nazca system, unlike the British ley system which has been partially obliterated, remains largely intact due to the arid climate. The tracing of these complex shapes over 30 miles of desert suggests a significant purpose, though Maria Reiche does not know why.

The book is described as a preliminary for a scientific interpretation and an introduction to the study of these figures, with purchases helping to finance a worthy project. The author notes that the figures presuppose a culture advanced for its time and calls for painstaking research. The book is lavishly illustrated and available from Sago Press.

LETTER FROM FRED O. GARDNER

Fred O. Gardner writes in response to a previous mention of his name regarding a "misunderstanding" in 'The Ley Hunter.' He clarifies that he did not "silence" any "S.F. angle" but rather advised the editor that it would be wiser to omit science fiction (S.F.) mentions in a UFO publication. Gardner explains his reasoning: firstly, he questioned if 'The Ley Hunter' was indeed a UFO journal, and secondly, he was concerned about the adverse criticism and bad feeling among UFO circles in the South, which attributed UFOs to "lively imagination" and the influence of S.F. He feared that linking ufology with S.F. would create confusion, as he personally does not accept them as synonymous. He states he is not an S.F. addict but enjoys it as "light" reading, separate from his interest in UFOs.

Gardner suggests the reverse might be true: that the UFO phenomenon may have inspired S.F. writers. He ponders if S.F. writers have caught premonitions or mental pictures of future events. He draws parallels to Jules Verne and H.G. Wells, whose fictional ideas, like nuclear-powered submarines and space travel, have become reality. He speculates that interplanetary travel might become a global necessity due to population growth and resource depletion.

He concludes by stating he is not easily swayed and would not be swayed by allegations that UFOs are merely S.F. or the product of hallucination. He mentions Rev. Norman Cochburn, an experienced UFO researcher and expert on S.F., who found that less than a third of attendees at a UFO meeting were interested in S.F. fiction.

Gardner resolves to be more careful in his future statements to avoid being misquoted and having to engage in negative exchanges.

Editor's Note

The editor responds to Gardner's letter, stating that Keith Walker's "nonsense" was printed to publicly declare that the editorial policy would not be changed due to a few people's disapproval. The editor quotes Walker's assertion that Paul Screeton was pressured by ufological friends to drop anything suggesting UFOs were not "100 per cent the real thing." The editor clarifies that he never believed Fred Gardner claimed to have "silenced" S.F. He also adds that 'The Ley Hunter' treats UFOs as only one aspect of the ley mystery and discusses them only when a connection is apparent.

TIME FOR THE TIMES TO COME TOGETHER

This section provides several short announcements and reviews:

• Anthology: An anthology of selected articles from issues 2, 3, and 5 of 'The Ley Hunter' is available for 2/- (plus 4d. postage). It includes articles by Tony Wedd on linking UFOs and leys, leys in Somerset, and Stonehenge; Philip Heselton on ley hunting history; Barbara Crump refuting the Roman origin of The Fosse Way; and Circumlibra on "power centres" on leys. It contains 21 pages of articles.
• The Ley Hunter Subscription: From the next month, the cost of 'The Ley Hunter' will be Is. 4d. per issue. Subscriptions will be 5s. for three months and 10s. for a half-year, due to increased paper costs and page numbers.
• SHUFOIG JOURNAL: The South Herts. Unidentified Flying Objects Investigation Group publishes 'SHUFOIG JOURNAL' quarterly. Single copies are 1s. 6d. post-free, edited by Fred O. Gardner.
• Proposed New Magazine: Bram Stokes and a group are planning a new magazine focused on British mysteries, similar to "Gandalf's Garden." It will cover antiquities, witchcraft, Tarot, and mysticism, formatted as a digest with reprinted chapters. The aim is a circulation of several thousands.
• Magical Mysteries Tour: Kenneth Knight is organizing a tour of sites in the Somerset area associated with the "Somerset Giants," covering a large region including South Wales, Gloucestershire, and Bath. The area is linked to the "Kingdom of Logres." The tour includes lectures with slides and maps. Interested individuals can contact Mr. Knight at Box Farm, Panborough, near Wells, Somerset.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of ancient alignments and their potential connections to historical mysteries, folklore, and even UFO phenomena. The primary article by R.D.Y. Perrett exemplifies the meticulous, albeit sometimes inconclusive, approach to identifying and verifying ancient sites and their relationships. The discussion on ley lines extends to a global perspective, referencing the Nazca lines and suggesting a worldwide system of alignments. The debate surrounding the inclusion of science fiction in UFO publications highlights a tension between speculative fiction and empirical investigation within the ufology community. The editorial stance, as indicated by the editor's note, is to maintain an open but evidence-based approach, not to be swayed by external pressures, and to treat UFOs as one facet of a larger mystery when connections are apparent. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in ancient mysteries, archaeology, folklore, and the unexplained, with a particular focus on British sites and phenomena.