Ley Hunter - 1971 no 25

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: No. 25
Date: November 1971
Publisher: Paul Screeton

This issue of The Ley Hunter, a magazine dedicated to the study of ley lines and ancient sites, presents a variety of articles exploring terrestrial zodiacs, ancient myths, and archaeological theories. The magazine aims to be a platform for disseminating information on these subjects.

Lead-In

The editor notes that the issue number is now prominently displayed on the cover for easier identification. The magazine will continue to be published at monthly intervals. A new feature is a panel on page 1 which, if containing a cross, indicates that a reader's subscription has lapsed.

Pentagram

Gerard Noel, a reader, produces his own magazine featuring first-class material. His "Candlemas 1967" issue is highlighted for its article by Alexander Thom on "Megalithic Geometry in Standing Stones." Other notable articles from past issues include "How Religion Began" by Cottie Burland and material on shamanism, Sufism, and psychedelics by Gareth Knight. Copies are available from Mr. Noel.

In Brief

Production problems have led to a shorter issue, with the next expected to be longer. The editor mentions a visit from Trevor McGrath, editor of "Mantra." Tony Roberts's book is selling well. Nigel Pennick's "Walrus" magazine will be reviewed in the next issue, along with Bob Dylan's "Tarantula" and a reprinted Lewis Spence book. Peter Christie organized a meeting in Portsmouth on leys, attended by 27 people. Nicolas Jones of Trinity College, Cambridge, is researching the artist Paul Nash, focusing on celestial symbolism in his work, particularly his paintings of mounds and rings on leys. He is seeking information on whether Wittenham Clumps, a subject of Nash's, is on a ley.

The Holderness Zodiac

By Philip Heselton

This article proposes the existence of a terrestrial zodiac in the Holderness region of East Yorkshire, an area characterized by low-lying land and chalk deposits. Heselton identifies three prominent leys that led him to this discovery. He notes that church leys are common in the area. The zodiac is centered around Riddens, a farmstead near Rise, on the Sutton-Hornsea ley.

The Leo figure is described as the finest, located in the north-west of the circle, outlined by streams and the River Hull, with Catwick and Catfoss at its tail. This orientation, with water signs near the sea, is contrasted with the Somerset and Kingston zodiacs where Leo is to the south. Heselton speculates that Pisces and Aries figures may have been lost due to coastal erosion, and the Taurus figure is represented by the horns in the place-name Hornsea. The Gemini figures are yet to be clearly defined, with Hornsea Mere potentially forming part of one.

A sketch is provided to illustrate the rough placement of the figures and leys, with interested readers invited to contact the editor for a complete diagram.

The Virgo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Libra Figures

Continuing the description of the Holderness zodiac, Heselton identifies the Virgo figure between Tickton, Routh, and White Cross. The Scorpio shape is discernible in watercourses between Meaux Abbey and the River Hull. Sagittarius is marked by two tumuli in Long Riston village known as Butt Hills. Capricorn is well-defined by its head and horn in Burton Constable park. Aquarius is tentatively placed around Rough Hill, Tansterne, and Etherdwick. The Libra figure, depicted as a bird, is well-marked and flies down the Hornsea-Sutton ley.

Heselton acknowledges that this is a preliminary sketch and further work is needed, including physical examination of the locations and investigation of place-names. He invites others to share their theories on terrestrial zodiacs.

Tomnaverie Stone Circle

By Sir Alexander Ogston of Glendavan (Reprinted from "The Prehistoric Antiquities of the Howe of Cromare - 1931")

This section details the Tomnaverie Stone Circle, consisting of 13 stones, with 8 upright, varying in height from 1.5 to 4.5 feet. A fourteenth stone is mentioned as having disappeared. The "Altar Stone" (No. 10) and surrounding pillar stones are described as large and symmetrical. The Altar Stone shows signs of having been prized up, altering its position. Calculations based on magnetic variation suggest the central face's direction would have an azimuth of N 39° 25' with a visible horizon of 3° 20' to the north and 1° to the south, potentially pointing to the midwinter sunrise.

A diagram of the stone circle is included, showing its layout and surrounding features. A line across the middle of the circle at right angles to the Altar Stone's central face gives an azimuth of N 50° 35' E. This, with a visible horizon of 2° 50', could indicate midsummer sunrise over a hill north of "The Slack."

The article discusses the difficulty in determining the exact center of the circle, noting it's not a true circle. It examines lines from potential centers over specific stones and surrounding hills, finding no clear astronomical significance. However, based on Sir Norman Lockyer's theory, Tomnaverie is suggested to be a summer solstice circle, dating from approximately 600 BC or possibly 1600 BC.

White Tower and Spiral Castle

(A Study in Comparative Mythology) by Anthony Roberts

This article explores the recurring myth of a 'white tower' or 'spiral castle' found in various cultures, from the jungles of Central Brazil to Celtic mythology. The myth speaks of a perpetually burning tower of 'cold light,' often associated with ancient civilizations like Atlantis.

Albert de Winton's account of a lost city in Brazil, guarded by the Suya tribe, describes a massive stone tower emitting an eerie light. The city itself is depicted as a splendid, grey stone metropolis with plazas, temples, and fine streets. The inhabitants are described as tall, near-white, but mentally degenerate.

The 'Spiral Castle' myth is presented as a universal symbol of the magical beacon of the western Fairyland, beautiful, distant, and dangerous. It is suggested that these towers generated alchemical powers from the earth and sky. The spiral pattern is recognized as a fundamental archetype in nature and human consciousness, representing motivating energy and the transmission of information from the collective unconscious.

Roberts draws parallels between the 'Spiral Castle' and modern descriptions of 'Flying Saucers,' noting that at certain times, the spiral castle is said to spin noiselessly, increasing in speed until it becomes invisible, emitting a high-pitched hum. This phenomenon is seen as a juxtaposition of psychological and material phenomena.

The article further links the myth to the ancient civilization of Atlantis, suggesting that the towers and ruins in South America might be remnants of this heritage. The symbolism of the winged disc or flying saucer is also connected to the essence of old Atlantis. The study of these myths and legends, along with lines of force and winged discs, is presented as a path to understanding the secrets of space, time, and energy, and a means to master terrestrial magic.

Reading Matter of Britain: "The Old Straight Track"

Review of "The Old Straight Track" by Alfred Watkins, translated from "Politiken" by Prof. P. V. Glob.

This review discusses Alfred Watkins' theory that England, even before the Romans, was covered by a network of straight roads and paths. Watkins, a merchant and keen observer of the Herefordshire countryside, developed this idea through his topographical studies and photography.

He noticed that prehistoric and early historic monuments often lay along old trackways that were straight and sighted upon natural features like hill passes and trees. His book, first published in 1925 and reissued, details these observations. While the idea of such a comprehensive system of straight lines laid out since Bronze Age days is considered unlikely by some, the review acknowledges that people have always moved in straight lines between fixed points.

Despite potential doubts about Watkins' main point, the book is recommended for its observations of ancient tracks. The reviewer notes that Denmark could learn from Watkins' knowledge of topography and how humans have consistently used salient features. The book is praised for its lively text and good photographs, though some are reproduced too small. It is described as a guide to the secrets of the Herefordshire countryside.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Ley Hunter strongly emphasizes the interconnectedness of ancient sites, landscape features, and mythology. The magazine acts as a disseminator of theories and research related to ley lines and terrestrial zodiacs, encouraging reader participation and communication. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these often-esoteric subjects, presenting various theories and historical accounts for consideration. The recurring themes include the identification of ancient patterns in the landscape, the exploration of mythological archetypes, and the potential links between ancient beliefs and modern phenomena like UFOs. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical research and the re-examination of past theories, often overlooked, works like those of Alfred Watkins and Sir Alexander Ogston.

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: No. 1
Volume: 1
Date: September (implied 1970s)

This issue of 'The Ley Hunter' magazine, identified as No. 1 and likely from the 1970s, delves into a variety of esoteric and occult subjects, with a particular focus on Glastonbury, Atlantis, and related phenomena. The magazine serves as a platform for discussions on spirituality, ancient civilizations, and the broader field of 'ley hunting'.

Content Highlights

Book and Magazine Reviews

The magazine features several reviews of other publications, providing readers with insights into related literature and periodicals:

• The Atlantean Magazine: Described as a commendable bi-monthly publication, it covers a wide range of topics including the occult, Christianity, Atlantis, folklore, 'live archaeology', the New Age, and ecology. The current issue reviewed includes articles on Findhorn, ghostly monks, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and a reprint from 'The Ley Hunter'. It is available for 15p plus postage.
• Torc Magazine: This magazine is presented as being for 'Glastonbury's people' and contains poems, notes on onions and St John's Wort, a piece on intolerance, Centring, and importantly, a reprinting of 'Psychometry on the Tor' by Iris Campbell and John Foster Forbes. This reprinting alone is highlighted as a reason to purchase the magazine. It is available from Torc, Avalon House, The Batch, Ashcott, Bridgwater, Somerset.
• Quest Magazine: This quarterly magazine is noted for its consistent high quality, covering topics of interest to ley hunters, particularly the more esoteric and occult aspects of life. The September issue is reviewed, with a promise of a fuller account in the next issue of 'The Ley Hunter'. A sample issue costs 20p (inc. postage) from Marian Green, 38 Woodfield Avenue, Ealing, London W.5.
• Pendragon Magazine: This publication focuses on Arthurian legend and is described as being closely allied with 'The Ley Hunter'. The latest copy deals with the Holy Grail and the Cathars. It is available from The Editor, Garden Flat, 22 Alma Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BY.
• Journal of the British Society of Dowsers: This magazine is described as stimulating and of great assistance. However, it is suggested that readers should have some knowledge of water diving and radiaesthesia to benefit fully. It is available to non-members at 30p (+postage) from the society at High Street, Eydon, Daventry, Northants.

Publications by 'The Atlanteans'

The issue also details publications from 'The Atlanteans' society:

• 'The Atlanteans' Society Philosophy: The society's philosophy emphasizes individual thought, an understanding of the universe that acknowledges God as an Ultimate thought, and encourages personal expression to find meaning and develop spiritually, mentally, and physically. They believe in an 'extra sense' to transcend materialism and offer an understanding of the occult from an esoteric perspective.
• Booklets: Two booklets are highlighted:
• Spirit Evolution: This booklet covers elementals, devas, evolution, Christ, Lucifer, and drugs, with specific interest for ley hunters in its chapters on power centres. It includes warnings about the psychic natures of certain sites, with a personal account of a 'sealed' experience at Sun Honey.
• Atlantis: Past and To Come: This book, with contributors including Joyce Mitchell, Jacqueline Thorburn, and Stephen Taylor, presents a case for the physical reality of Atlantis, citing historical, geographical, racial, and legendary evidence. While acknowledging skepticism, the book's arguments are presented as thorough and convincing. It also discusses the interpretation of evidence like frozen mammoths and the concept of Atlantis as a multi-level reality, potentially existing on a psychical plane.

Both booklets are available from The Atlanteans, 21 Rodney Road, Cheltenham, GL50 1HX. 'Atlantis: Past and To Come' is priced at 25p plus postage.

Advertisement for King Street Market

An advertisement for King Street Market in Cambridge lists a selection of paperbacks and hardbacks available via mail order, with prices ranging from 30p to £3.50. Titles include those related to Glastonbury, Stonehenge, Arthurian legends, Celtic Britain, and occult sciences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'The Ley Hunter' revolve around the esoteric, occult, and ancient mysteries, with a strong focus on British sites and legends such as Glastonbury and Atlantis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to explore spiritual development, alternative understandings of the universe, and the investigation of psychic phenomena and ancient civilizations. There is a clear interest in 'ley hunting' and related fields, as evidenced by the reviews and the reprinting of relevant articles. The magazine promotes a worldview that acknowledges both physical and supra-physical realities, encouraging personal spiritual growth and the seeking of higher consciousness.