Touchstone

Magazine Overview

Title: Touchstone
Issue: No. 11
Date: October 1986
Publisher: Surrey Earth Mysteries Group

This issue of "Touchstone" provides a diverse exploration of earth mysteries, folklore, and archaeological interests, with a particular focus on the Avebury area and broader discussions on ley lines and ancient sites.

Avebury Revisited

The lead article, "Avebury Revisited," recounts two visits to the famous stone circle village in Wiltshire. The first visit, on July 15th, 1962, was by the Ley Hunter's Club and the Pendragon Society, an event that led to the author speaking about it on television. The second visit, on August 11th, 1986, by the author and his wife Doris, allowed for a closer examination of the site. They walked the outer bank, noting three beech clumps which they speculated might have been deliberately sited for their wind noise or intervisibility, particularly one clump visible from the Sanctuary on Overton Hill. The article mentions the Devil's Chair stone in the south-east quadrant and the stones of the Southern Inner Circle. The author also notes the profusion of barrows visible towards the Ridgeway. The article describes the Swindon Stone as one of the few that has neither fallen nor moved, and mentions that many stones were replaced by Alexander Keiller. It touches upon the infamous Barber Stone, which crushed a man attempting to bury it, and the church of St. James, noting its Saxon foundation and twelfth-century font. The author reflects on the subconscious siting of the church on an interesting ley line. A visit to the Sanctuary site is also described, noting its alignment with East Kennett church and Long Barrow, and the welcoming atmosphere of such sites. The West Kennett barrow is also mentioned as awe-inspiring.

Some Thoughts on Moot 86

Chris Hall's "Some Thoughts on Moot 86" summarizes the discussions from the annual Moot held at the University of London. The article highlights the evolution of ley hunting beyond its origins with Alfred Watkins, now encompassing a broader spectrum of inter-related subjects. The Dragon Project, focused on radiation monitoring at stone circles, is mentioned, with plans for new research using magnetometers and ultrasonics, as well as studies on gravity anomalies and Kirlian photography. The Moot also touched upon paganism, with a talk on the symbolism of the staff. The significance of trees as ley markers and the folklore surrounding them are noted as neglected areas. The panel discussion included topics such as the potential effects of Chernobyl on the Earth spirit, the desecration of sacred hills by uranium mining, and practical matters. Archaeologists' growing interest in ley hunting is evidenced by Aubrey Burl's participation. Paul Devereux emphasized the need for objective, repeatable research. The discussion also explored how earth mysteries and archaeology could collaborate more effectively. Archaeological restoration, particularly the use of concrete, was criticized by some audience members, with examples like the Hurlers in Cornwall cited. Rupert Sheldrake presented a concept linking earth mysteries with the ecology movement and spirituality, suggesting that sacred sites near nuclear sites could be used for prayer to balance negativity.

Books

This section reviews "Tales of Old Surrey" by Matthew Alexander, a book that compiles local folklore and history. The reviewer notes that while the book is a useful source, Alexander's insistence on historical accuracy is a fault, sometimes detracting from the charm of the tales. Examples include the legend of the Silent Pool originating from a novel and the author's critique of the Surrey Puma myth. The book also covers Surrey tunnel legends, a shaggy ape, an alchemist, and a Surrey witch. The reviewer also mentions Andrew Sinclair's "The Surrey Cat" and the author's own research into the Surrey Puma.

Notes and News

This section contains several short items:

• The Auld Stanes: Discusses the origin of the name of Staines, possibly from nine stones placed by Druids at Egham Hythe.
• Southampton mystery: Bob Swift noticed the remains of a Celtic cross in a circle of stones near Ower, Southampton, which was not marked on the Ordnance Survey map.
• London Earth Mysteries: Announces the formation of a new group, the London Earth Mysteries Circle, detailing its meeting schedule, speakers, membership fees, and plans for a research project on London geomancy, folklore, and history.
• More London Earth Mysteries: Reviews Andrew Collins' book "London Walkabout," which details ten mystical sites in London.
• Mother Ludlam trip: The London Earth Mysteries Circle is planning a joint field trip to Mother Ludlam's Hole.
• Exchange List: A list of publications for exchange, including "Quicksilver Messenger," "Caerdroia," "Fortean Times," and "The Ley Hunter."
• Touchstone Publication Details: Information on how to subscribe to Touchstone and submit articles.

Mother Ludlam's Hole, Near Farnham, Surrey

This section provides a detailed historical account of Mother Ludlam's Hole, a grotto near Farnham. It describes the natural formation of the cavern and its subsequent artistic enlargement. The text notes its association with Sir William Temple and the burial of his heart. The legend of Mother Ludlam, a white witch who lent household items, is recounted, along with the story of a cauldron that was not returned, leading to the cessation of her lending. The article also references a large cauldron kept in Frenham church, possibly linked to the legend.

Campus Lines: Leys and Modern Universities

This is an announcement for a publication by Jimmy Goddard, detailing his nine-year project investigating modern university campuses and their surrounding leys. It suggests that the phenomenon of subconscious siting of leys is a living system with ongoing discoveries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of folklore, archaeology, and unexplained phenomena, particularly within the Surrey region. There is a clear interest in ley lines, ancient sites, and local legends. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into earth mysteries, encouraging research and discussion, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation, as highlighted in the review of Matthew Alexander's book and the discussion on Moot 86. The publication serves as a platform for sharing research, news, and book reviews within the earth mysteries community.