Touchstone

Magazine Overview

Title: Touchstone
Issue: No. 88
Date: January 2010
Publisher: Surrey Earth Mysteries Group

This issue of Touchstone, the newsletter of the Surrey Earth Mysteries Group, marks "FIFTY YEARS OF LEY HUNTING" and delves into various aspects of earth mysteries, archaeology, and historical research.

Fifty Years of Ley Hunting

The lead article reflects on the author's fifty-year journey into the study of leys, beginning in 1960 after attending Tony Wedd's STAR Fellowship Rallies. Initially focused on flying saucers and extraterrestrial contact, the STAR Fellowship incorporated ley hunting through Tony Wedd's booklet "Skyways and Landmarks." This connection was solidified by the idea that extraterrestrials might use magnetic currents, which led Tony Wedd to rediscover the work of Alfred Watkins, thus bringing leys back into public consciousness after a lull since the 1940s. The article traces the evolution of ley hunting organizations and publications, including the Ley Hunter's Club and its magazine, "The Ley Hunter."

Society of Leyhunters September Moot 2009

The magazine details a visit to Saffron Walden, where participants explored the ancient turf maze, linked to Troy and the Perpetual Choirs, and discussed its association with the Knights Templar. The area is described as having node points of circles significant in Druid magic and alchemy. The Loxodrome, associated with ley lines, was also explored. The group then visited Wandlebury Hill, known for its ramparts and legends, and learned about T.C. Lethbridge's investigations there. The tour continued to Cambridge, where Prudence Jones provided a historical and geographical context, discussing the city's origins, its connection to Alfred the Great, and its various significant churches, including those on the seven-church ley discovered by Nigel Pennick.

Further exploration in Cambridge included visits to St. John's College, Trinity College (noting Isaac Newton's rooms), and Michaelhouse. The immense King's College Chapel and Great St. Mary's church were also visited. Prudence Jones also gave a talk on Cambridge's wider landscape context, discussing its medieval street plan and historical development.

Archaeological Investigations

The issue features extensive coverage of archaeological sites. A visit to Grime's Graves, a Neolithic flint mine, revealed details about mining techniques, antler picks, and a significant Neanderthal burial. The site's origins and the discovery of Pit 2, containing a woman's body, are also discussed. The magazine also covers the famous Anglo-Saxon ship burial at Sutton Hoo, detailing its discovery by Mrs. Pretty and excavation by Basil Brown. The ship burial, dated to the early 7th century, is believed to be that of King Raedwald. The article discusses the pagan context of the burial, the discovery of various artifacts, and the possibility of Christian influence.

Other Articles and Features

Other sections include a letter from Norman Darwen discussing subconscious siting and sacred sites, a "Notes and News" section with upcoming events from TEMS and the London Earth Mysteries Circle, and information on a new ley archive site by Michael Behrend. A "Book Review" covers "Quicksilver" by Sam Osman, a children's fantasy story inspired by earth mysteries. The magazine also lists publications available from J. Goddard, including "The Hidden Unity and Beginnings," "Earth People, Space People," and "The Legacy of Tony Wedd," as well as subscription details for Touchstone itself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ley hunting, ancient sites, earth energies, UFOs, and archaeological discoveries. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep interest and engagement with these subjects, presenting detailed accounts of research, historical findings, and personal experiences within the earth mysteries community. The magazine serves as a platform for disseminating information, promoting events, and reviewing relevant literature and publications.