Page 1

Editorial

A reflection on the challenges of cataloguing dialling literature and the value of the British Sundial Society in enabling collaboration among enthusiasts. Highlights the importance of collective efforts in preserving and sharing gnomonic knowledge.
The BSS and Members

Page 2

Samuel Foster of Gresham College - The 1996 Andrew Somerville Memorial Lecture

A detailed biographical and technical account of Samuel Foster, a 17th-century diallist, highlighting his innovations in dialling techniques, instruments, and his influence on later gnomonists. Explores historical context, plagiarism controversies, and posthumous publications.
How Sundials Work, Mathematics of Dialling

Fred Sawyer

Page 16

Portable Dials - Care and Restoration

Practical guidance on cleaning, conserving, and restoring portable sundials, including brass, silver, and ivory examples. Covers safe cleaning methods, corrosion prevention, protective coatings, and storage recommendations to preserve both functionality and historical integrity.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

John Moore

Page 21

Umkhonto We Langa Sundials

An account of sundials in South Africa’s Umkhonto We Langa area, describing their design, cultural significance, and local craftsmanship. Discusses both historical context and modern appreciation.
Historical Dials

R. P. M. Holliday

Page 24

The 1996 Somerset Mass Dial Survey

Results and observations from a survey of mass dials in Somerset, cataloguing examples, their locations, and distinctive features. Includes notes on preservation and stylistic variations.

John Ingram

Page 25

Finding the Meridian Line by Meridian Transit

Explains how to determine the true north-south line by observing the Sun's meridian transit. Includes practical steps, necessary equipment, and applications for sundial alignment.

René J. Vinck

Page 26

Destruction by Vines

A cautionary note on how unchecked vegetation, particularly vines, can damage sundials. Provides examples and preventative advice for dial owners.

Charles K. Aked

Page 34

Sundial Supporters - Part I

The gods, humans, or beasts supporting the escutcheon are called supporters. This article describes figure(s) holding or supporting the dial in place of a plinth.

Roger Bowling

Page 37

How to Determine Time by Moonlight

A method for telling time using moonlight and sundial principles. Explains necessary calculations, lunar phases, and adjustments for accuracy.
Dialling Tools, How Sundials Work

J. T. R. C. Schepman

Page 39

Derbyshire Scratch Dials

Survey of scratch dials in Derbyshire, noting their distribution, styles, and historical background. Considers their role in medieval timekeeping.

F. N. Fisher

Page 43

Sundials based on Lateral Thinking

Introduces creative sundial designs employing unconventional concepts. Encourages innovation in form and function while respecting core gnomonic principles.
Dials: Unusual

Maurice Kenn

Page 45

Sundial House

Description of the sundials at Sundial House in Culcheth, Greater Manchester, their historical setting, and unique design elements. Notes on their preservation and cultural value.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials

Charles K. Aked

Page 47

North Declining Vertical Dials Revisited

Re-examines the theory and practice behind north-declining vertical dials, correcting misconceptions and providing updated construction guidelines.
Dials: Vertical, Mathematics of Dialling

Peter J. Meadows

Page 48

Book Reviews

Reviews of recent sundial-related publications, summarising content, scope, and usefulness for diallists.
Book Reviews

Page 49

Readers Letters

Correspondence from readers discussing previous articles, sharing observations, and posing questions related to sundials.
The BSS and Members

Page 52

Dialogue

A section of exchanges, comments, and brief notes between members and editors on topics of sundial interest.
The BSS and Members