Ley Hunter - 1973 no 42

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: No. 42
Volume: 12
Date: APRIL 1973
Editor/Publisher: Paul Screeton
Location: Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Subscriptions: 75p for six issues; £1.50 for one year.

This issue of The Ley Hunter explores a diverse range of topics including ancient sites, esoteric science, and unexplained phenomena.

Articles and Content

THEA by Eric Ratcliffe

A poetic piece evoking imagery of nature, ancient rituals, and the Druids, focusing on a moment of connection with the natural world and ancient energies.

MISCELLANY

This section features several short contributions:

• Pete Meazey is seeking to compare ley research findings from West Wales, Cornwall, and Devon with others.
• A reader flying from Edinburgh to Heathrow observed a straight, unmoving "road" through clouds, suggesting it might be related to a ley line.
• N.P. Courtnadge is researching the use of specific plants by the Druids, including Monkshood, Aconite, Henbane, deadly nightshade, and thornapple. He is interested in their preparation and use, as well as their role in prehistoric society. He can be contacted via Oban Main Post Office, Oban, Argyllshire.
• Bill Porter is seeking knowledge, both esoteric and exoteric, of dragon lore and mythology in Britain and elsewhere. He can be contacted at 54 Clements Road, East Ham, London E6 2DF.

MCCAIG'S TOWER by Hugh Fife

This article discusses McCaig's Tower in Oban, Argyllshire, often known as McCaig's Folly. Built by Mr McCaig to provide work for the unemployed, it is described as an amphitheatre-like structure with arches. While some consider it a folly due to its apparent lack of purpose, others believe it to be a powerful energy centre where cosmic and terrestrial currents fuse. The article mentions a stone circle built within the century, with at least six leys passing through it, and notes the significance of seven and twelve in ley hunting. It also alludes to a story about a spaceship and direct communion between earth people and "Gardeners."

WILHELM REICH (Part II) by Leslie Marr

This installment continues the discussion on Wilhelm Reich's work, focusing on the Orgone Accumulator. The article details its construction, internal measurements, and the practical use of the device, where patients sat naked inside and often reported feeling warmth and increased vitality. Reich's explanation of orgone energy attraction to organic material and repulsion by inorganic material is presented. The article describes how the accumulator's power was increased by using layers of steel wool and glass wool, creating a "five fold" accumulator. It mentions the construction of "shooters" for local application and the hiring out of man-sized accumulators. The article notes that while users reported positive results, Reich's explanation is questioned, with the author proposing that the accumulator might function as a resonator or receiver of cosmic rays.

The article then recounts Reich's history, including his establishment of the Orgone Energy Laboratory in New York and his move to Maine to build a complex called Orgonon. It details the founding of the Wilhelm Reich Foundation and the extraordinary "Oranur experiment." This experiment, aimed at finding a cure for radiation sickness, involved placing a sample of radium in an orgone accumulator. The experiment resulted in a dangerous radiation reading, making the lab atmosphere "sticky and heavy" and the metal walls "glowing." Those present became ill, and the mice in the experiment died. Reich explained this as nuclear energy attacking orgone energy, causing the orgone energy to become "deadly orgone energy" (DOR). The article also mentions Reich's discovery of the "DOR burster" and the "cloud burster" for dispelling DOR and making rain, respectively.

Finally, the article touches upon Reich's prosecution by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for his work on orgonomy. The FDA claimed orgone energy did not exist, and Reich was convicted of criminal contempt, fined, and sentenced to two years' imprisonment, dying in prison in November 1957.

THE ANCIENT PATHS by Mollie Carey

This piece reflects on the experience of walking "straight paths" or ancient trackways. It describes a feeling of peace and a connection to nature, noticing the scents of wild thyme and bedstraw, the beauty of wildflowers, and the sounds of insects. The author suggests that these paths encourage meditation, help to "shake the poisons" out of the system, and bring the traveler into tune with the universe. The experience of lying on the grass, observing the sky, and feeling relaxed leads to a sense of becoming "Aware." The article posits that these ancient ways foster a desire to know more and to love fellow humans, promoting humility and a sense of universal family.

THE RELATION OF ALCHEMY TO SPIRITUAL SCIENCE by John Foster Forbes

This article, an extract from "Avalon" (October 1945), explores the connection between alchemy and spiritual science. It begins by referencing local information that "stones grow," suggesting that vibration speed can be manipulated to create substances like alchemical gold. The author emphasizes the importance of understanding laws governing magnetism, electricity, and vibration. He introduces the concept of "SIL," an ancient word for "CHURCH," interpreted as "The Body of Christ." This "SIL" substance, found in sand (silica quartz), is presented as a materialised spiritual substance with divine and celestial properties, linking it to the "Celtic" race. The article suggests that silica, in its primal state, was essential for "spiritual dynamics" and "spiritual generation," possessing a property indispensable for this process.

It further elaborates on the alchemists' work in transforming base metals into gold, which involved creating a crystal from sand, utilizing silica's properties to coordinate all vibrations and make them undirectional. The author connects this to divine injunctions for man to regain the "lost kingdom of heaven," referencing phrases like "BE YE TRANSFORMED" and "If Christ be lifted up He will draw all men unto Him." The process of transformation is described as achieving true vibration through subjugation of detrimental elements, leading to regeneration and "TRANSFIGURATION" or the "eternal flooding of the being with celestial light and power," akin to the Philosopher's Stone.

WHAT GLASTONBURY REVEALED (Extract of article by J. Foster Forbes from Jan. 1946 "Avalon")

This extract suggests that ancient remedial ministries at Glastonbury dealt with restoring bird and flower life, which had been impaired by terrestrial tragedies. The rites were aimed at raising these from their formless condition. The "Sun Ritual" is mentioned as taking on a different nature, involving a motion from the base of the hill, moving sunwise upwards with increasing intensity to create a vortex of "tremendous power." This vortex is described as a canopy or dome of "glazed substance" or "etheric glass," which acted as a receiving centre for absorption and refraction of solar rays, generating regenerative forces. The "Glassy Sea" surrounding heavenly bodies is presented as a belt of silica substance that enables the creation of life through solar and stellar action.

U.F.O. PHENOMENA & AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS (Part 2) by Ian B. Wright

Disturbance Encounter: This section examines recent incidents and aeroplane mishaps, suggesting a pattern related to transient disturbances and peculiar locations within the Earth's magnetic field.

• 1958 Canberra Incident: A Canberra aircraft broke up over the Irish Sea, with the pilot ejecting. A search aircraft experienced a double engine failure nearby but managed to restart its engines before ditching, returning home without further incident. The article notes that some time later, a similar incident occurred.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Ley Hunter consistently explores themes of ancient mysteries, earth energies (ley lines), esoteric knowledge, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to be a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share their findings, theories, and personal experiences, often bridging the gap between historical, spiritual, and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance, as indicated by the content, is open to exploring unconventional ideas and encouraging further investigation into these subjects.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, identified as issue number 10 and volume 10, published in 1960, delves into a series of unexplained aircraft incidents and their potential connections to UFO phenomena. The magazine also features reviews of several books related to UFOs, folklore, and ancient mysteries.

Aircraft Incidents and Potential UFO Connections

The magazine details numerous aircraft incidents, highlighting patterns of electrical failures, midair breakups, and sudden loss of control. Several cases are presented with specific dates and locations:

• In October 1959, a new type of fighter aircraft became uncontrollable and broke up over an unspecified area, though the pilot escaped.
• On April 13, 1960, a Dove aircraft experienced a double engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of the aircraft but the crew's escape.
• In 1956, a Globemaster flying from Iceland to England experienced a double engine failure, and later reported all four engines had failed before disappearing.
• On August 26, 1956, a Douglas B-26 on a ferry flight also disappeared without a trace.
• A report mentions an airliner crew observing a huge green bubbling patch in the sea.
• A Constellation aircraft was lost off Shannon Airport, with sabotage initially suspected.
• In January 1954, a Comet disintegrated in midair without apparent cause.
• On April 8, 1954, another Comet broke up similarly.
• In January 1949, a Tudor of British South American Airways was lost without trace on the South Atlantic run, followed by another Tudor lost in the same area on January 30, 1949.
• On July 7, 1960, a U.S. Navy 'Blimp' airship collapsed due to an unknown cause near the site where the airship 'Akron' was lost in 1933.
• In 1953, a Britannia suffered a complete electrical system failure near Bristol and crash-landed.
• A Vulcan on tour in the U.S.A. suffered a total electrical failure near Detroit and crashed. Another Vulcan later experienced a similar failure.
• A year prior, a Valiant over Hampshire had a similar failure, resulting in the loss of most of the crew.

The magazine also explores incidents involving peculiar atmospheric conditions:

• On February 3, 1959, a Boeing 707 flying to England experienced violent maneuvers and severe buffeting at 35,000ft, regaining control only at 6,000ft.
• On May 16 of the same year, a Viscount over Maryland, U.S.A., encountered violent turbulence at 14,000ft, broke up due to overstressing, and crashed at 5,000ft.
• On August 20, 1959, a Victor flying over the Bristol Channel area is believed to have instantaneously broken up and disappeared from radar.
• On October 13, 1959, a new type of aircraft, a Blackburn NA29, crashed into a field over Salisbury Plain without apparent reason.
• In January 1960, a Canberra aircraft about 18 miles east of Malta faded off the radar screen and was never found.
• A Canberra over Hanover on May 16, 1960, exploded in midair.
• A Canberra over Eniwetok Atoll at 24,000ft went out of control, with only the pilot escaping.
• A Canberra disintegrated over Derbyshire in April 1958 at 56,000ft.

The section "UFO Warning?" speculates on the possibility of advanced beings monitoring our atmosphere and potentially intervening to prevent aircraft from entering dangerous airspaces. One incident is recounted where an aircraft crew saw a UFO, believing it to be the cause of their predicament, though it might have been trying to avert disaster.

Another incident on March 19, 1960, involved a Boeing 707 at 16,000ft over Michigan being forced to dive violently to avoid what were believed to be "two military type jets in close formation." This is presented as a potential case of forced diversion. The article also mentions an Electra that broke up in flight over the River Ohio on March 17, 1960, possibly after colliding with a military type jet, with wreckage found miles apart. A midair explosion on April 14, 1960, over Scotland was being investigated by the Air Ministry.

Book Reviews

This issue features several book reviews:

THE ETERNAL SUBJECT: Chariots of Yesteryear/UFOs of Today by Brinsley le Poer Trench

Brinsley le Poer Trench's sixth book explores the UFO enigma from occult and extraterrestrial viewpoints. The reviewer notes Trench's discussions of similarities between UFOs and psychic phenomena, and his disregard for contactees like Adamski and Nelson. Trench's ideas about being "seeded" on this planet and comparisons between UFOs and psychic phenomena like teleportation are discussed. He also incorporates notions from Dr Meade Layne and John Keel, supporting a superspace theory for instantaneous travel.

U.F.O.s: OPERATION TROJAN HORSE by John A. Keel

This book is highly praised as "THE best U.F.O. book of them all." Keel views UFOs as part of the occultist's universe, drawing parallels between ufological phenomena and black magic rituals, spiritualist seances, and paraphysical reality. He posits that UFOs are not extraterrestrial but "ultraterrestrial," sharing our planet at different vibratory levels. The reviewer notes Keel's emphasis on the connection between sacred sites and UFOs, suggesting a common energy or fusion between worlds.

BIGFOOT: The Yeti & Sasquatch in Myth and Reality by John Napier

John Napier examines the phenomena of abominable snowmen, Sasquatch, and Almas. The reviewer commends Napier's open-minded approach and biological perspective. The book discusses the scientific community's attitude towards such subjects and the lack of physical evidence. It chronicles sightings and includes a chapter on the Minnesota Iceman hoax. Napier's biological judgments are described as balanced.

OLD ENGLISH CUSTOMS by Roy Christian

This book explores how early Christian missionaries integrated pagan fertility rites into their faith in Britain. It details seasonal rituals, stones, and mounds, and Christianized names for archetypal gods. The tradition of "Turning the Devil's Boulder" in Shebbear, North Devon, is highlighted as a potential markstone related to leys. The author notes the antiquity of customs like morris dancing and plough blessing, and a ritual of dressing a poplar at a crossroads in Salop. The book also covers civic ceremonies, doles, charities, sporting events, and ancient courts.

THE VIEW OVER ATLANTIS by John Michell

Described as a "mind-blowing experience" and "the most important work since 'The Old Straight Track'", this book is recommended for its rare glimpse into channeling past wisdom to build an alternative future. The reviewer strongly urges readers to buy it.

Other Sections

• THE CARNAC ALIGNMENTS by A. Thom and A.S. Thom: This section discusses a reprint of articles in the Journal for the History of Astronomy that revealed solar and lunar alignments among the megaliths at Carnac, suggesting complex geometrical designs and a possible astronomical problem solution. The authors are puzzled by the methods used to set out the alignments and the purpose of the main Carnac alignments, with the reviewer suggesting a focus on psychic energy properties rather than celestial observation.
• THE ATLANTEAN: Information is provided about this bi-monthly magazine and society, which focuses on Atlantis, the occult, and UFOs.
• QUEST: A subscription offer for this publication is mentioned.
• TORC: A description of this mystical magazine from Glastonbury is given.
• OUTLAWS OF AMERICA: The Underground Press & its Context: A Pelican original by Roger Lewis is recommended for its perspective on the alternative press.
• PENDRAGON: A recent issue is noted as interesting, particularly an article on "The Pilgrim's Progress."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, mysterious aircraft accidents, and the intersection of these with the occult, psychic phenomena, and ancient mysteries. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance, presenting various theories and evidence without necessarily endorsing one over another, particularly in the book reviews. There is a clear interest in exploring alternative explanations for phenomena that defy conventional scientific understanding, drawing connections between ancient sites, folklore, and modern UFO reports.