Archaeology on the Web

Culture Minister David Lammy has announced the launch by the Portable Antiquities Scheme of an interactive website, PAStexplorers.org.uk, which will provide children and teachers with information about archaeological finds. The PAS is the largest community archaeology project in the UK. It was established in 1997 and is funded by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council. Its aim is to encourage the voluntary recording of archaeological objects found by the public.

HFP Under Pressure

The Heathen Organisation HFP, which claims to represent Heathens to the British Government have been under much pressure from all sides recently, receiving criticism from Heathens all over. The main point of contention seems to be how they represent heathens – many feel they are faceless names on a website, and others that they do little but issue outdated surveys which would be more akin to historical re-enactment than modern religion. The debate has been raging on the UK Heathenry yahoo group for some weeks.
 
Battle of Hastings (Again)

A re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings will take place on October 14-15 2006 on the site of the original battle. Participants from all over the world will be taking part and staying in the Living History encampment. The Viking Re-enactment Society have been appointed as hosts. They were founded in 1971 and now boast the largest membership of any re-enactment group. For further information visit http://hastings .vikingsonline.org.uk
 

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Comparative mythology is always a contentious subject, especially with hard polytheists. Many do not see the point in looking for cross-cultural patterns. Gun Westholm recently wrote about how the Aesir Gods have distinct parallels in Greek Mythology (Viking Heritage – 3/05), yet the Vanir seem to be home-grown in Northern Europe, being earth deities as opposed to the warrior gods of the Aesir. Admittedly, such research is normally carried out by non-religious academics, thus their findings are not always relevant to practitioners of the Heathen faith. Heathenism is a complete religion and needs little input from other cultures, but as a middle ground I would suggest is possible to at least be ‘informed’ by other traditions, if not guided. It is entirely possible to view all religions as a reflection of spiritual truths, and to single out one or a few as reflecting those truths better than others. This does not mean we are required to compare deities like-for-like and agree or disagree with their being the same as each other. I would suggest it is possible to reach a middle ground, agreeing to agree or disagree on some points, but learning from others where we feel it is necessary and proper. Thus in the light of reports about the Tibetan Book of the Dead, we could look at it sideways, take it on board and learn from it, or dig in our heels and refuse to admit that it is of any interest to us as spiritual beings. I know which I would prefer. (Alan Nash – 2005).

The Acre Hearth (Norfolk, England)

Formed 2000 with 3 members as of 11/03. A heathen kin based hearth formed to re-establish the pursuit of the troth by true folk along the nar beck for perhaps the first time in 1000 years. we aim to gain both the acceptance of our community for    our     beliefs,  and official state recognition for our heathen religion both locally and nationally. Email: welham308@yahoo.com

Association of Polytheist Traditions (UK)

The Association of Polytheist Traditions [APT] is a fledgling organisation based in the UK, aiming to educate both members and  non-members about ancient and modern polytheist religions; to increase awareness of polytheism within the pagan community, the interfaith community and amongst the wider public; to act as anetworking/social organisation, helping to establish local polytheist groups and national gatherings.Further information from the web site: http://www.wyrdwords.vispa.com/APT

Ða Engliscan Gisiþas (The English Companions)

Ða Engliscan Gesiþas is the only major historical society devoted to the study of the Anglo-Saxon period. All aspects are covered: language and literature, archaeology, anthropology, religion, architecture, mythology, folklore and material culture. Contact: The Membership Secretary, Ða Engliscan Gesiþas, BM BOX 4336, London,
WC1N 3XX. EMail: johno@kami.demon.co.uk.


Draupnir Heathen Hearth

Based on Hampshire/Dorset border.Monthly Blotar/Events.Friendly welcome.For more info please call Mark on 07752 877561.

Firsby Saxon Village (Lincolnshire)

Steve and Judith Jones, members of Ða Engliscan Gesiþas living ten miles north of Lincoln, are building a replica Anglo-Saxon period hall using authentic materials and techniques. Steve and Judith plan to make the house into a partially defended settlement on a four-acre site. This will be run as a study centre for the late Saxon/Viking period and an ancient crafts centre. They will also be making and firing pots of the period, smelting, forging and demonstrating crafts. The project is still in need of voluntary help to speed its completion. Anyone who wants to help or simply visit please contact Steve at: Manor Farm Cottage, East Firsby, Saxby, Lincolnshire, LN2 3DB or telephone 01673 878636.

Hearth of Nine Maidens (South Yorkshire)

Blots are held in the Peak near Market Rasen and by the river near Doncaster. Stone Circle walks, moots, trips to the Jorvick Viking Centre. Telephone Camryn Kerr on 0770 9207142.  Or Email: gothic1kiera@aol.com


Herne Hill Hearth (London)

The Herne Hill Hearth is based in S.E. Londonand is working towards the three great Northern ways. These are Seidr, Galdr and the Troth. We also include the Heathen parenting group and organise family Blots, crafts, music etc.For special events we have access to a woodland Hof just North of London. Contact Fiona by phone on 0207 737 1107.


Jorvick Viking Centre (York)

Discover what life was really like over 1000 years ago, meet our Viking residents, see over 800 items uncovered here, and journey through a reconstruction of actual Viking-Age streets, Telephone: 01904 543403. Email: jorvik@yorkarchaeology.co.uk Write to: Jorvick, Coppergate, York Y01 9WT.


Kindred of the Wolven Spear (Scotland)

My kindred are looking for more keen members across Scotland so just e-mail me and i will be willing to teach. We are based in Bo'Ness and Livingston from 1 week to the next. Email: Kindred_of_the_Wolven_Spear@hotmail.com

Kith Of Yggdrasil (UK)

The Kith of Yggdrasil concentrates on the spiritual approach to the mysteries of Odinism, and it's work is of relevance to all followers of the Aesir, Vanir and Northern Tradition. It is active in many parts of the British Isles, with special interest groups, hearths, and meetings for both spiritual and social purposes. The Kith publishes both a monthly newsletter, and a quarterly journal for the benefit of it's members. It welcomes all with a genuine interest in our faith, regardless of race, gender, or sexual preference.


Liferites

Liferites offers celebrants for all rites of passage, baby naming, handfasting,funerals etc. Write to Liferites, Gwndwn Mawr, Trelech, Carmarthenshire, SA33 6SA. Telephone 01994 484527.


Mercian Heathen Hearth (Wolverhampton)

The Mercian Heathen Hearth is a community based on Heathen traditions based in the Black Country and Wolverhampton areas. The MHHholds meetings on a weekly basis and include study sessions and blots for members. Our festivals are based on the Anglo Saxon calendar which has been developed from the ideas found on the English Companions web site. A full listing of the festival dates is available on our web site:http://www.mercianheathenhearth.org.uk/home.php
 

Northern Tradition Hearth (Halstead): Telephone 01787 238257 for more information.


Northlands Viking Centre (Caithness)

Come and explore the Viking heritage of Caithness at the Northlands Viking Centre. Situated on the A9, about 10 miles north of Wick, it provides an ideal stopping point on the road to John O' Groats.Discover the pre-Viking kingdom of the Catti and follow the progress of the Norse settlers from their Scandinavian homes to Shetland, Orkney and Caithness. On display are models of the Viking settlement at Freswick, a Viking longship and genuine examples of the currency at the time. The Old School, Auckengill, Keiss, Wick,Caithness. Tel 01955 607771.


Norwich Castle Museum: Anglo Saxon and Viking Gallery

Norwich Castle has one of Britain’s most important collections of Anglo-Saxon treasures. In Summer 2004, we're opening a brand new Anglo- Saxon and Viking Gallery.  See a fascinating reconstruction of an Anglo-Saxon grave site, revealing how archaeologists gather evidence to piece together the social, economic and political life that existed a thousand years ago. Discover our wonderful collection of jewellery, including a stunning gold ‘Thor’s Hammer’ and the Bathilde seal , a tiny double-sided gold ring with an intriguing erotic scene on the reverse. (Adults £3.50; Conc £2.95; Child [5-16] £2.50; Adult in family group £2,95).


Odinist Hearth (Gloucestershire)  Held once monthly. Call Ian on 01452 619247.-

Odinshof (UK)

The Odinshof is a religious and educational charity, (Reg.No.801629,) established on 7th October, 1987CE to promote the ancient teachings and philosophy of Odin. As a Heathen organisation the Odinshof acknowledges all other Germano-Celtic deities of Old Europe. Contact: Odinshof BCM, Tercel, London. WC1N 3XX.Website: www.gippeswic.demon.co.uk/odinshof .html


Odin’s Kindred (Manchester)

Norse Hearth (Manchester). Odinic religion, runes, Norse mythology and culture. Telephone Martin on 0161 860 0922. Email: vikingmart@ tesco.net

Permaculture (UK)

Solutions for sustainable living. Organic gardening, sustainable agriculture, agroforestry, eco-villages, alternative technology, eco- architecture and much more. Visit www.perma culture.co.uk for more information, or telephone 0845 458 4150.


The Rune Gild (UK)

The Rune-Gild is a school of esoteric knowledge based on the Odian system of the Runes. The Gild is a world-wide organization with Halls in North America, England and Australia. UK contact: The Rune Gild, Eormensyl Hall, BM Sorcery London, WC1N 3XX. Email: DLee@ aol.com. Website:  www.runegild.org


Rune School (UK)

A non-profit making organisation dedicated to the teaching of runic wisdom. The Rune School run workshops and events in the UK, and can be contacted through their website: www.runeschool.org/index.htm, or email: questions@runeschool.org.


Sagecat (Suffolk)

Mildenhall's SageCat Moot is a gathering of open minded people. They have many different traditions and paths represented in the group, such as Heathen, Wiccan, Green, Hedge and Traditional Witchcraft, Eclectic and Egyptian Tradition. The group is open to all newcomers of all levels and all paths from beginner to experienced. The only thing they ask is that you come in peace and with friendship in your heart. The Moot takes place on the last Tuesday of every month. Social dinners are organised on the second Saturday of the month and many other events, outings and celebrations throughout the year. Email: sagecatmoot@paganearth.com

The Saxon Path (UK)

For those who want to pursue spiritual self-development within the Anglo-Saxon tradition. Contact: The Saxon Path, PO BOX 496, Grimsby, DN32 0WR. Tel: 01472-596921.

The Sutton Hoo Society (UK)

The Sutton Hoo Society is a registered charity. Our aims and objectives focus on promoting research and education relating to the Anglo Saxon Royal cemetery at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk in the UK. As part of this work the Society works with the National Trust in providing the guided tours on the burial site. Membership Secretary, Sutton Hoo Society, 258 The Pastures, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP13 5RS, England. Email: membership@suttonhoo.org
 

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village lets you explore  the way our ancestors lived. The village has been carefully reconstructed where it was found. In the Anglo - Saxon Centre, objects from the original village are displayed, telling the fascinating story  of this settlement and the people who lived there. Go into the houses, feel the solid wood, soft cloth and carefully-crafted furniture, imagine living in  early Anglo-Saxon times. Visit the pigs, watch the chickens, experience the open-air life. There is no hurry on this journey through time. The Visitor Centre, Icklingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds. IP28 6HG. Telephone: 01284 728718. General information (Tel) 01284 728718 General information (Fax) 01284 728277 E-mail: weststow@stedsbc.gov.uk website:
www.stedmundsbury.gov.uk/wstowmain.htm

Will of the Asatru Nation (Ireland)

An organisation for those following the religion of Asatru, expressing their faith through spiritual practice coupled with environmental and social activism. Contact Michael Martin, 19 Crowe Abbey, Delgany Co.Wicklow, Republic OfIreland. Email: asatrunation@asatrunation.cjb.net or michaelmartin@asatrunation.cjb.net.

Woden’s Hearth (Peterborough)

Offering an Introduction to Heathenism and a correspondence course. Moots are held on the first Monday of each month at the Wheatsheaf in Peterborough. For further details please email Ken Bamford at kenbamford@aol.com or telephone 07742533480.

The Woodland Trust

The Woodland Trust is the UK's leading conservation charity dedicated to the protection of our native woodland heritage. Email membership@woodlandtrust.org.uk  or telephone 01476 581135.    

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Friends of The Moon Tunbridge Wells Moot

Third Wednesday of every month at the Royal Oak Pub, Tunbridge Wells. 8pm till closing. Contact EirEldr Rakki on robdgray@hotmail.com or on 07966 176273.

Friends of The moon Walking Moot

1st Sunday of each month at 11am. Anywhere in or around Tonbridge, so contact Adam first for details of where we will be. Bring good walking boots, suitable clothing, food and drink in case you're peckish. Kids and dogs welcome. Contact Adam at thebrough@yahoo.com or on 07910 321913

Kith of Yggdrasil London & Home Counties Blot

Sunday 13th - Highgate Woods, meeting in the Woodman Pub at 2pm. Contact Mike for more details: freyaandalan@btinternet.com.

London Heathen Moot

Independent Heathen moot, organised by the White Stone hearth. Held on every second saturday in January, April, July and October.  12.00 - 18.00. Contact alwin@bkwurm.plus.com for more information.


Odinist Hearth (Gloucestershire) Held once monthly. Call Ian on 01452 619247


Odinist Hearth Monthly Blot (Dorset)

Oswald for more details at wyvern14 uk@yahoo. co. uk

Draupnir Hearth Events

November: Blot: Einherjar; Day: Thursday; God/s: Óðinn; Venue: Ramsdown.
December: Blot: Yule; Day: Weekend; God/s: All; Venue: TBC.

All dates will be arranged one month in advance. For further details please contact Mark on: 07752 877561.

Sagecat Events: November & December

12th November - Monthly Dinner
Friendly meal to get to know some of the moot members and organisers. Venue TBA to book your seats and for info contact T by the 7th of Nov.

November Moot - 29th November

This night we have our own Eddie and Jess  talking about 'Ghost Busting'. Come along and learn how to put your spirits to rest. We will also  have sales tables to buy and trade from, a raffle and the 'Pagan Profile.'

Yule Ritual & Feast – 21st December

Moot members and thier family are invited to come along and have a great evening of fun. Starting with a Yule ritual and then a feast and gift exchange (if you want to take part in this please get your names to us by the 10th of Dec). Please bring food and drink to share as this event is free.

Sequana 2005

Liverpool’s own Circle of Pagans proudly present the Sequana Conference 2005. So far we have the following speakers lined up: Dr. Jenny Blain, Anna Franklin, King Arthur Pendragon, Jaq D Hawkins, and the following workshops: Psychic Questing and Elemental Spirits by Linda Severs; Making A Runic Talisman by Kevin Rowan Drewitt; Evening Entertainment: Pagan Storytelling by Andy Harrop Smith; Sunday 8th October at Casa Bistro, Hope Street, Liverpool, L1 9BO Doors Open 10:30am, opening ritual 11am. Tickets: £8 and £6 concessions. Contact Kate on 07890646870 or Kev on 07743647105 email: sequanaconference@circleofpagans.co.uk . web site: www.circleofpagans.co.uk

Trees in winter - Tree Identification Walk.

Wandlebury country park - sat 12 Nov. Learn how to identify some of our native trees from bark shape & form. Adults £3.00. Dress appropriately. Ring to book a place as fills up quick! 01223 248706

West Midlands Heathen Moot

Held at the Bradmore Arms 15th October 2005. Trysull Road, Wolverhampton from 12 noon. Further details from Secretary MHH, 56 Fareham Crescent, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton, WV4 4YN or secretary@merc ianheathenhearth.org.uk . Details will be available from http://www.mercianheathenhearth.org.uk/

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village Events

Yule Fest13 November 2005

Live traditional Ceilidh music, festive cheer and a chance to buy some unusual Christmas gifts, all in the Angles café & shop. Icklingham Rd, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 728718. weststow@stedsbc.gov.uk
Wodens Hearth Moot

Meets 1st Tuesday of every month at the Paul Pry Pub on Lincoln Rd opp Morrissons Superstore at 8pm. For further information please email Paul at suficat@yahoo.co.uk The next moot will be on November 1st.

Yorkshire Heathen Pub Moot

Torkjell of the Hearth of Frey continues to host a monthly moot. Contact him at torkjell_dal@hotmail.com.

Yorvick Viking Centre

17th November: Ask the Archaeologist: Secrets of St. Mary's! Jorvik. 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. Included in standard admission charge

24 –27 November: St Nicholas Fayre Medieval Market. Barley Hall10am – 4pm (last admissions) Admission £1 Medieval craftspeople demonstrating and selling their wares in the splendid setting of a reconstructed medieval townhouse. Real 'living history' and perfect for Christmas shopping! Also enjoy refreshments from the 'medieval' bar

December: Get an even closer picture of Viking life at one of our Jorvik gallery talks, 10.00am – 4.00pm. Themes for December: Seasonal Myths of the Frozen North at quarter past the hour. The gods and heroes of Norse mythology will be on hand to entertain and educate with their winter


 

Vinland Saga, by Leaves Eyes (CD)

Having listened to other CD’s supposedly telling the tales of Vikings or our sagas and being very disappointed, I can say that this CD is absolutely brilliant. Each song tells the tale of our ancestors as they travelled to a new land. There is also the secondary story of a couple, parted as the man goes ‘a-viking’ and the woman is left in their home land. The hauntingly beautiful voice of Liv Kristine Espenoes Krull gives real feeling to the music, and fans of Nightwish will love this too. The CD is well worth a listen, with songs such as ‘Farewell Proud Men,’ ‘Elegy,’ and ‘New Found Land.’ Leaves eyes also have their own website: www.leaveseyes.com, and the CD is available from Amazon.co.uk. (Freya Nash – 2005)