Ley Hunter - 1971 no 19

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: 19
Date: May 1971
Editor: Paul Screeton

This issue of The Ley Hunter magazine, dated May 1971, explores a range of topics related to ancient mysteries, folklore, and symbolism, with a particular focus on ley lines and their connection to prehistoric wisdom.

Lead-In: The Limits of Archaeology and the Scope of The Ley Hunter

Editor Paul Screeton opens the issue by stating that conventional archaeology is insufficient for revealing the secrets of leys and the technology behind them. He suggests that the necessary clues are not found in orthodox archaeological texts but must be sought elsewhere. Screeton details his extensive research during the winter months, finding little benefit from archaeological books but considerable value in works by scientists, particularly Americans. His research has led him into diverse fields such as crystallography, gravitation, electromagnetism, meteorology, communications, ufology, and the life force. He also highlights theoretical occultism as a rich area for research. The Ley Hunter has broadened its scope to encompass ancient skills and wisdom, with particularly worthwhile research into astrology, alchemy, ethnoastronomy, and psychometry proving helpful. Screeton asserts that leys are a fundamental aspect of prehistoric wisdom, forming the basis from which other interests of early man branched. He reaffirms the belief in the physical existence of this network, citing the late Alfred Watkins, and positions the magazine as a forum for disseminating proof of this 'exoteric existence'. The magazine also aims to establish the esoteric significance of leys and a civilization that sought cosmic consciousness, suggesting Alfred Watkins intentionally focused on the physical reality of leys while leaving clues to their deeper psychic fundamentals for future generations.

The Days When Giants Threw Rocks About by Janet Gregory

This article explores legends and folklore surrounding giants and their supposed role in shaping the landscape. Janet Gregory posits that prehistoric stone circles and ancient edifices were not built by simple peasants but by people aware of lost knowledge. These ancients, understanding the importance of natural currents, allegedly reshaped the land for maximum benefit to inhabitants. The article recounts tales of giants constructing landmarks: Cormoran and Cormelian building St Michael's Mount with granite blocks; a giant at Treryn creating a cliff fortress; Gorm forming Maes Knoli in the Avon Valley and constructing Wansdyke; and a Welsh giant unintentionally forming The Wrekin near Shrewsbury. Other legends include the sea-giant Wade creating Wade's Causeway in Yorkshire, Scottish giants throwing tools across the Dornoch Firth (forming the promontories of Cromarty), and giants in Shetland and Lancashire throwing rocks. The theme of giants using rocks in games is also explored, with giants on Trencrom Hill playing bowls with enormous rocks and Welsh giants playing quoits. Gregory suggests that these legends indicate a belief in a superior race, perhaps not in physical stature but in mental abilities compared to ordinary people of the time. The legends connected with standing stones are also seen as revealing, possibly relating to a plan by giants to arrange natural currents for maximum efficiency, with some stones credited with causing physical effects and possessing unknown power.

The Secrets of the Megaliths by M.E. Carey

M.E. Carey discusses her extensive research at Stonehenge and Avebury, highlighting the unique and advanced art found on the megalithic stones. She describes discovering 'sun carvings' that change with angles and distances, a phenomenon that initially caused her distress. Carey notes that while centuries have eroded details, she has been guided to rediscover this art. She contrasts her findings with the skepticism of professional archaeologists, asserting that her photographs and slides provide evidence of worked stones that make archaeological work seem like 'kindergarten stuff'. After six years of study, Carey concludes that all ancient religions link up with the megaliths, pointing to an occult connection and the 'Truth of the Beginnings'. She has traced similar carvings to Deir-el-Bahari in Egypt, suggesting an affinity with those at Stonehenge and Avebury.

Magic and Christian Symbolism by Anthony Roberts

Anthony Roberts examines the ancient origins of Christian symbols, arguing that they predate Christianity itself and are rooted in pagan religions and ritualistic magic. He identifies key symbols such as the Cross, the Circle, the Vesica Piscis, the Fish, and the Holy Grail, suggesting they have been obscured by historical miasma but once held powerful significance as talismans. Roberts posits that these symbols are archetypal patterns existing in the human unconscious, originating from a fertile seed-bed of imagery and psychic inheritance. He explains that early Christianity adapted and converted elements from mystery religions of Greece and Rome, which in turn absorbed Solar Nature worship from prehistoric cultures. Edicts were issued for churches to be built on existing ritual sites, often high mounds associated with Nature Worship and megalithic standing stones. These stones, aligned in 'leys', often end at or pass through ancient churches. Roberts highlights the circle and the cross as perhaps the oldest symbols, found in caves dating back 50,000 years BC, representing fundamental concepts of order, harmony, and spiritual unity. He details the symbolism of the cross representing the fusion of good and evil, and the four elements, and the circle representing ceaseless alchemical energy and eternity. The article traces the cross's lineage from the Egyptian Tau Ankh to its use in Christianity. The vesica piscis, a geometric shape formed by two equilateral triangles, is also discussed as a fundamental element in sacred architecture, stemming from Pythagorean geometry and used in temples and churches to generate spiritual magic. Roberts also explores the symbolism of the fish, its astrological significance, and its adoption by early Christians as a symbol of fluid growth and the life-force. He connects these symbols to the 'Old Magic', differentiating between 'White' magic (beneficial) and 'Black' magic (evil), both utilizing these basic signs of power.

The Holy Grail and Pagan Parallels

Roberts continues by discussing the Holy Grail as a profound symbol of sanctity, strength, and purity, with a history spanning 2,000 years. He draws a parallel to the 'Cauldron of Inspiration' from early Pagan mythologies, a Celtic object that bestowed inspired revelation through a secretly brewed liquid, expanding psychic properties and leading to an understanding of 'mysteries'. This cauldron, associated with the Sky Goddess Ceridwen, was said to glow with divine light. Roberts asserts that the analogy is too strong to be a coincidence, demonstrating a direct continuity between profound Christian symbolism and the old systems of geomancy, magic, and revelation. He concludes that the Christian faith was the immediate successor to these systems, transmitting recurring patterns of order and harmony through the ages. The article ends by noting that the first megalithic civilizations, who charted ley systems, have largely vanished, but their learning and symbols have been preserved, forming an esoteric basis for the Old Magic and geometrical metaphysics that fertilized subsequent religious interpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Ley Hunter revolve around the idea that ancient civilizations possessed knowledge and wisdom beyond conventional understanding, particularly concerning earth energies (ley lines) and spiritual symbolism. There is a strong emphasis on connecting prehistoric sites, folklore (giants), and ancient symbols (megaliths, Christian iconography) to a unified system of belief and power. The editorial stance, as expressed by Paul Screeton, is that traditional archaeology is insufficient, and a broader, more esoteric approach is necessary to understand these ancient mysteries. The magazine champions the idea of a lost, advanced civilization and the enduring influence of ancient magic and metaphysics on later religions and cultures. The articles collectively suggest a hidden continuity between ancient pagan practices and later religious systems, particularly Christianity, and highlight the significance of geometric and symbolic patterns in understanding the human mind and the universe.

This issue of *The Ley Hunter*, dated March 1971, delves into a variety of esoteric and archaeological topics, blending ancient myths, astronomical observations, and reader contributions. The magazine appears to be a platform for alternative interpretations of history and phenomena, often contrasting with mainstream scientific and archaeological views.

Megalithic Mysteries and Ancient Sites

The issue opens with a discussion of ancient cliffs and their connection to 'HOLY PLACE' sites and the concept of 'The Gods.' A significant carving of 'The Great SERPENT' is described, measuring 180 feet long and 50 feet wide, adorned with flints and stones, and believed to be the burial place of the first gods. The author traces a path to the Americas, locating 'the three fingers' at the Gateway of the Sun at Tiahuanaco in Bolivia, noting the presence of megalithic monuments and regional myths. The author expresses a belief that the story of the megalith builders is the 'most exciting saga of all time,' much of which remains hidden. They emphasize the need for dedicated individuals to piece together this history, contrasting their own efforts with the potential skepticism of professionals. The text highlights the importance of amateurs and professionals working together, suggesting that younger archaeologists are beginning to question established findings. Old prehistoric sites are presented as evidence that science alone is insufficient, requiring 'The Clear Eye and Far Vision' to solve the enigma of megalith builders. Specific sites like the Temple of the Stars at Glastonbury and 'Old Straight Tracks' are mentioned as potentially fitting into a larger 'Truth at the Beginnings.'

Stonehenge, Avebury, and Archaeological Verification

An editor's note mentions that Mrs Carey has provided photographs of Stonehenge and Avebury, which the editor has examined. The figures on the stones are described as 'truly incredible.' The Heel Stone at Stonehenge is likened to a fish or serpent, and numerous animal faces are noted on a markstone in Yorkshire, some no larger than a football. Readers are encouraged to examine pictures of Stonehenge or Avebury to verify these findings.

Gypsy Lore, Zodiacs, and Albion

Under the byline 'ATUN,' an article explores 'Gypsy Lore, Zodiacs & Albion.' The author challenges the conventional origin of gypsies from India or Lower Egypt, stating they are not of 'Albion' (which includes Roman, Saxon, and others). The article posits that each nation has its wanderers, but these are distinct tribes. It suggests that parts of France and Ireland have related peoples, but much written about them is speculation or misrepresentation. The author claims there were twelve tribes globally, with each nation divided into twelve kingdoms, listing examples such as Albion (Ram), Canada (Bull), U.S.A. (Rabbit), Mexico (Crab), India (Goat), and Mediterranean Egypt (Water Bearer). The article further connects the twelve kingdoms of Albion to zodiacs centered on the Peak District, possibly relating to Arthur's legends. Gypsy fairs are said to be held in the 'kingdom of the month,' with Appleby fair linked to Gemini and Mercury. Anglesey is noted as important to Albion the Ram, representing the sign Aries. The article describes customs related to the vernal equinox, including burning herbs and tending sacred groves. It criticizes those who invaded the land 'for land,' accusing them of destroying it. A 'gypsy warning' is issued regarding the 'Common Market business,' questioning if the sun will go backwards and stating it brings woe for 'man's spiritual energy.' The author notes persecution of travelers and asks people to 'Stop! Look and Listen' if they see gold or silver in hair on ancient tracks. A postscript offers advice for those suffering from Saturn's effects on Gemini.

The author expresses a belief in the wisdom of old customs and offers to write more articles on Albion's customs and gypsies. The alphabet is also discussed, with 'A' compared to the Mars symbol and 'B' to Earth. A list follows, correlating letters (C-Z) with planets (Mercury, Moon, Sun, Asteroids, Venus, Pluto, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) and zodiac signs (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Scales, Female, Viper, Half-horsed Archer, Goat, Aquarius, Fishes).

Readers' Forum

The 'Readers' Forum' section features several contributions:

• Obliquity of the Ecliptic: R.D.Y. Perrett questions statements from a previous issue (March 1971) regarding the obliquity of the ecliptic 23,000 years ago, citing conflicting values from a consulted book. He asks for clarification on the formulae used.
• Editor's Response: The editor notes that Scott Firth, who wrote the article in question, might be using a pseudonym and suggests the possibility that the work could be by Prof. Thom. The editor seeks information on Firth's current status and address.
• Jenny Wood's Inquiry: Miss Jenny Wood of Pershore, Worcs., asks if similar surveys to those found around Brown Willy have been conducted on peaks, camps, long barrows, and crosses south of Cheltenham.
• Editor's Offer: The editor offers to forward letters to Miss Wood if anyone can assist her.
• Editor's Commentary on Letters: The editor comments on receiving 'crackpot letters,' including inquiries that confuse 'leys' with 'carnal lays,' an American subscription request, and an offer for exchange advertisements from a French magazine. An illiterate Jehovah's Witness is also mentioned for sending anonymous letters.

Announcements and Back Issues

• Hereford Meeting: A notice regarding a potential meeting in Hereford on June 30 indicates a disappointing response, urging interested persons to inform the editor soon. A further announcement is promised for the next issue.
• Next Month in The Ley Hunter: The upcoming issue will feature 'The Monk's Ford Ley (Somerset)' by Anthony Roberts.
• Publicity Request: A request is made for publicity regarding a peace research center in Esbjerg, Denmark, which aims to build a 'pentagonal' peace research center.
• Back Numbers of The Ley Hunter: A detailed list of available back issues is provided, with summaries of their contents, including articles by Allen Watkins, Tony Wedd, Jimmy Goddard, Iris Campbell, F.R. Watts, J.F. Neal, John Michell, Prof. Lyle B. Borst, Ross Nicholason, Nigel Pennick, John Wheaton, Dan Butcher, Philip Heselton, Dr Oliver L. Reiser, Tom Cole, Paul Screeton, and Lewis Edwards. Issues are priced at 72p each, with a standard postage charge of 22p.

Advertisements and Other Features

• QUEST Magazine: An advertisement for 'QUEST,' a quarterly magazine for the practical occultist and magician, is included, with subscription details and contact information for Marian Green.
• Astrology and the Madrid U.F.O.: An excerpt from an article by Marion Byron in 'SCAN' (Journal of the Bournemouth Cosmic Research Group) describes a UFO sighting over Madrid on June 1. The UFO appeared for 12 minutes, flew low, and had a peculiar marking on its underside, which the author interprets as the glyph of Uranus, ruler of the new Aquarian Age.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around alternative interpretations of history, archaeology, and unexplained phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on ancient mysteries, ley lines, and megalithic structures, often presented with a critical perspective on mainstream scientific and archaeological consensus. The magazine appears to champion the work of amateurs and independent researchers, suggesting that conventional approaches may overlook crucial truths. Astrology, gypsy lore, and UFO sightings are also featured, indicating a broad interest in esoteric subjects. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of unconventional ideas, while also acknowledging the potential for 'crackpot' contributions. The magazine acts as a forum for debate and the dissemination of information that challenges established narratives.