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The BSS and Members
March 2023
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the content of the current issue, highlighting contributions such as the obituary for founder-member Mike Cowham, articles on newly reported dials, portable dials, and a memorial sundial. It also notes that the official Trustees' Report and Accounts were not ready at the time of publication.
The BSS and Members
March 2023
Page 8
Page 8
An obituary for Mike Cowham (membership number 26), a BSS founder-member known for his extensive contributions, including 103 articles for the Bulletin and his regular 'Dial Dealings' reports until 2020. He was the coordinating editor for Sundials of the British Isles and authored the monograph Altitude Dials.
The BSS and Members
March 2023
Page 20
Page 20
Describes the stainless-steel memorial sundial (SRN 8340) commissioned to honour miners who died at Bettisfield Colliery. The BSS Help & Advice Service assisted the artist with design and calculations. The dial features a miner’s pick gnomon mounted on a salvaged industrial gear wheel.
Construction Projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2023
Page 26
Page 26
Summary of the Society's 2022 activities, including holding the York conference and Newbury meeting, maintaining strong finances, and detailing public benefit submissions to the Charity Commissioners. Projects included restoration advice, pro bono design work, and the continued growth of the Fixed-Dial Register.
Construction Projects, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
June 2023
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the successful April 2023 BSS Conference in Exeter, highlighting the splendid hosting and high standard of talks, including the Somerville lecture by Stephen Johnston. It introduces the issue's lead article on Oronce Fine’s horary quadrant, followed by articles on the Belgian altitude dial, Norwegian dials, and North Wales dials, and concludes with mention of the 2022 BSS accounts.
The BSS and Members
June 2023
Page 7
Page 7
Presents photographs of 'The Light of Enlightenment' statue and fountain located in the Tang dynasty-style Nan Lian Garden in Kowloon, Hong Kong. This sculpture, designed by Simone Bartolini in 2006, is built on an octagonal base, one panel of which depicts a map of China.
Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
June 2023
Page 16
Page 16
Comprehensive report on the BSS Exeter Conference talks, including subjects such as scratch dials, the Taormina Heliochronometer, the Queens’ Dial, the Equation of Time, Francis Line’s pyramid dial, and polyhedral dials (Somerville Memorial Lecture). The report also covers the social events, including a garden visit and the Gala Dinner.
Dials: Multi Faced, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2023
Page 33
Page 33
Presents the formal Report of the Trustees and the unaudited Financial Statements of the British Sundial Society for the calendar year ending 31 December 2022, scheduled to be noted at the Newbury Meeting for the AGM agenda.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the reproduction of the BSS Conference sundial “examination” questions and answers in this issue, noting that no one achieved more than half marks at the Conference. It also mentions the lead article on the Medieval Rule of Erfurt, two articles on magnetic compasses, two articles on horizontal sundials with multiple gnomons, the 2023 Photographic Competition winners, and details about a Zoom event.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 11
Page 11
A brief note highlighting an entry in the 2023 Photographic Competition titled “Garden Gate,” which featured a 1790 sundial by Dudley Adams (SRN 3301) at Scotney Castle (NT) in Kent. The variety of vegetation in the image was noted as particularly appealing.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 12
Page 12
Reports on Lida Lopes Cardozo Kindersley, a renowned letterer and sundial maker, being awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters degree (Litt.D.) by the University of Cambridge on the summer solstice, 21 June 2023. The article notes her work on sundials, including those at Selwyn and Pembroke Colleges, and the inscription on the Corpus Clock.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 14
Page 14
Reports the results of the 2023 BSS Photographic Competition, which attracted twelve entries and was voted on by delegates at the Exeter Conference. Winners included Mike Shaw (First Place, heliochronometer), John Allen (Second Place, Basilica of San Petronio), and Jackie Jones (Third Place, Polesden Lacey).
Dials: Heliochronometer, Dials: Noon Lines, The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 25
Page 25
Reports on the North American Sundial Society’s (NASS) 30th Anniversary Conference held in Ann Arbor, Michigan, featuring a commemorative cake and a bus tour. The author notes a sundial in the University of Michigan Music School garden with a gnomon shaped as a treble clef, and mentions a music-themed bass clef dial by David Brown.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 28
Page 28
Reproduction of the sundial knowledge “examination” paper compiled by Martin Jenkins and distributed during the BSS 2023 Exeter Conference outing. The answers to this examination are provided later in the Bulletin on page 36.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 34
Page 34
Reports on the inaugural quarterly BSS Sundial Zoom Event, inspired by Martins Gills and intended to review articles in the latest Bulletin. The event featured introductory comments by authors David Coffeen, Geoff Thurston, and Graham Stapleton, and proved successful despite initial timing uncertainties.
The BSS and Members
September 2023
Page 36
Page 36
Provides the answers to the sundial knowledge “examination” questions that were compiled by Martin Jenkins for the BSS 2023 Exeter Conference. The full set of questions was reproduced on pages 29-32 of this Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 1
Page 1
The editorial introduces the lead articles of the issue, including an important double horizontal sundial by Elias Allen's apprentice George Cooke, an intriguing equatorial dial, a 19th-century provincial dial, and pieces on ancient time reckoning and scratchings on church walls. It also wishes readers a Happy Christmas.
The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 9
Page 9
An obituary for John Lester (1926–2023), who was a dedicated sundial and mass dial enthusiast, GP, and instrument maker. He was a prolific recorder for the Fixed Dial Register and contributed frequently to the Bulletin, notably on Mass Dials and the work of Jeanie Crowley.
The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 27
Page 27
A couple of photos from the BSS Newbury One-Day Meeting held on 23 September 2023
The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 30
Page 30
A report on the second BSS Zoom event (renamed 'BSS Bulletin Follow-up'). The event included discussions on the Erfurt Rule and a demonstration of chiselling during the restoration of a Melvin sundial, alongside a theoretical look at converting solar azimuth to solar hour angle for different latitudes.
Dialling Tools, How Sundials Work, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 37
Page 37
An extensive report detailing the annual BSS Newbury meeting. Topics covered included the Oronce Fine Quadrant, Isle of Wight dials, methods for finding True North, the Sundial Atlas, John Lester's obituary, unusual scratch dials, a London sundial walk, and updates on the Hythe 'Undial' and BSS governance challenges.
Dialling Tools, Historical Dials, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
December 2023
Page 44
Page 44
Formal minutes of the BSS Annual General Meeting proceedings. Key items included receiving the 2022 accounts, the re-election of Frank King as charity trustee, the re-appointment of Counterculture LLP as examiner, and noting the retirement of Bill Visick.
The BSS and Members
March 2022
Page 1
Page 1
This section highlights articles in the issue, including a portable sundial from the Lviv Historical Museum, West Coast obelisks, a vanished sundial in Great Yarmouth, a Welsh slate dial investigation, a new dial at Peterhof, and the Westminster School sundial. It also informs readers that the Annual Report and Accounts will be published in the June issue.
The BSS and Members
March 2022
Page 33
Page 33
A cautionary article detailing how to spot fake antique sundials, using an octagonal dial signed 'I Myatt Bath fecit / 1745' as a case study. Despite good engraving, clues like the unusual 'holey' gnomon and XRF tests showing 20th-century brass reveal it to be a modern, well-produced deception.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2022
Page 1
Page 1
This section covers the recent BSS Conference in York, highlighting talks on mechanical EoT arrangements and sundial makers. It also announces the sad death of Tony Wood, who led the Mass Dial Group for many years, and introduces the main articles in the issue.
The BSS and Members
June 2022
Page 18
Page 18
This note records the finding of a previously unlisted sundial on the York Deanery grounds during the BSS conference tour. The current 'Sunny Hours' dial sits on a fine pedestal and appears to be a replacement for a five-ring armillary dial recorded there in 2001.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members, Dials: Armillary Sphere
June 2022
Page 33
Page 33
A report detailing the proceedings of the BSS Annual Conference held in York. It summarises various talks covering topics like displaying the Equation of Time, the historical San Petronio Meridiana, John Goodricke’s astronomy, sundial design using 3D point clouds, and the changing professional trades of sundial makers in the British Isles.
Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 2022
Page 40
Page 40
The formal annual report compiled by the Trustees covering the activities and status of the British Sundial Society for the calendar year 2021. This document is typically reviewed and formally acknowledged at the subsequent Annual General Meeting.
The BSS and Members
June 2022
Page 47
Page 47
The official financial statements and accompanying reports for the British Sundial Society covering the period ending 31 December 2021, published for review by members and notification at the Annual General Meeting.
The BSS and Members
September 2022
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the deaths of Chris Daniel and Tony Wood, noted BSS members. Provides updates on Society changes, including Fred Sawyer becoming a second Patron and Ben Jones taking on the role of Nominated Trustee. Also notes the final instalment of Dennis Cowan's series on Thomas Ross.
The BSS and Members
September 2022
Page 11
Page 11
A tribute to Chris Daniel, a founder member, long-term BSS Chairman, and noted diallist. Covers his careers as a Master Mariner and at the National Maritime Museum, where he focused on sundials. Notes his contributions as a designer, author (e.g., Shire album Sundials), and his MBE award.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2022
Page 14
Page 14
A tribute to Tony Wood, an early member remembered for reviving the Mass Dial Group. Highlights his dedication to recording dials, submitting 1,609 reports, and arranging for mass dial records to be stored at the York Centre for Medieval Studies archive.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2022
Page 1
Page 1
Discussion of the death of HM the Queen, the Newbury Meeting talks, commemorative sundials, and introduces Werner Riegler's lead article on adapting tide prediction machines to calculate the Equation of Time.
Equation of Time, The BSS and Members
December 2022
Page 8
Page 8
Report on the BSS Newbury meeting held shortly after the Queen's death, covering various talks including the French Republican calendar, Kings Langley Human Sundial, The Wonder Box Sundial, and several sundial restoration and creation projects.
Dials: Portable, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2022
Page 13
Page 13
Minutes covering the reception of 2021 accounts, the re-election of Bill Visick and election of Ben Jones as charity trustees, and the reappointment of Counterculture LLP as examiners. Also noted discussion on declining membership and conference formats.
The BSS and Members
December 2022
Page 35
Page 35
Account of a three-week sundial safari in Hobart, Tasmania. Examines several dials including the Transit of Venus commemorative dial and a complex mechanism at UTAS. Ends with discovery of the 'Sundial Sea Shell'.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 1
Page 1
Customarily, this first issue incorporates the Trustees' Annual Report and Accounts. There are several articles, including David Brown's restoration report on a large polyhedral sundial and notes on the late Jill Wilson's work concerning Masonic symbols.
The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 7
Page 7
Obituary for Mike Isaacs (membership number 126), a Chartered Chemist and founder member of the Oxford Branch of the British Horological Institute. He had interests in electrical clocks and sundials, and his son David, a photographer, captured many sundial images used by the Society.
The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 23
Page 23
An analysis of various Masonic symbols found decorating sundials, building upon material left by the late Jill Wilson. It describes the use of the square and compasses, the Eye of Providence, pillars, and other emblems on dials, ranging from ancient mason's marks to later 'antique' and custom-made pieces.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Mottoes, The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 42
Page 42
A query to members seeking help identifying the location of old family photographs. The location is a park or public garden, possibly in south-east London, featuring an armillary sphere sundial on a pedestal, which is currently unlisted in the Fixed Dial Register.
Dials: Armillary Sphere, The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 43
Page 43
This is the formal Annual Report presented by the Trustees of the British Sundial Society detailing the activities and governance of the organisation for the year 2020.
The BSS and Members
March 2021
Page 48
Page 48
This section contains the formal financial accounts for the British Sundial Society for the year concluding on 31 December 2020, along with supporting documentation and reports.
The BSS and Members
June 2021
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the cancellation of conferences due to lockdown and the subsequent Zoom event. Previews major articles in the issue, including the Palimpsest Horizontal Dial, the Liffey Sundial, modern dials, and the Drummond Castle Obelisk restoration. Mentions the latest BSS Sundial Awards and the passing of Mario Catamo.
The BSS and Members
June 2021
Page 37
Page 37
Report on the British Sundial Society's successful virtual conference held via Zoom in April 2021, featuring three noted North American speakers. Talks covered Zarbula and Potey dials in the French Alps, a highly customized ceiling reflection sundial by Woody Sullivan, and Fred Sawyer's theoretical work on Hybrid Peaucellier azimuthal dials designed to eliminate the noon gap.
Dials: Reflected, Mathematics of Dialling, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 2021
Page 40
Page 40
The author recounts his failure to formally register many of the approximately 215 sundials he has created since 1990, prompted by the discovery of an unrecorded dial he made at Piles Mill, Allerford (SRN 8191). Includes the transcription of a 1994 article by Hilary Binding detailing a sundial safari in West Somerset, describing the Piles Mill dial (a double-sided equatorial dial designed to look like a millstone).
Construction Projects, Dials: Equatorial, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2021
Page 1
Page 1
Describes reduced Covid restrictions allowing the Newbury meeting and AGM. Introduces major articles: John Sill’s unrecorded dialmaker analysis, Fachkreis Sonnenuhren anniversary, Fleet Street dial updates, gnomon solution, French Calendar proposal, book review, Thomas Ross puzzle, and Fiona Vincent's obituary.
The BSS and Members
December 2021
Page 6
Page 6
Congratulates the German Fachkreis Sonnenuhren on its 50th anniversary (1971–2021), noting it is the world's longest-established national sundial society. Mentions a commemorative book and conference, and early members like René Rohr, along with historical difficulties communicating with East German diallists.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2021
Page 16
Page 16
Official record of the British Sundial Society Annual General Meeting held in Newbury on 25 September 2021. Details include the acceptance of 2020 accounts, the re-election of Graham Stapleton, and the election of Jackie Jones and Frank King as trustees, along with the reappointment of the 2021 accounts examiner.
The BSS and Members
December 2021
Page 17
Page 17
Commemorates Fiona Vincent (1949–2021), the Bulletin's regular proofreader, noting her career as Dundee City Astronomer where she designed two sundials. Highlights her foundational work in positional astronomy web notes, contributions to the BSS Datacard, and research into moondials and small solar-system objects.
Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2021
Page 35
Page 35
Report summarizing presentations from the BSS Newbury Meeting on 25 September 2021. Topics included historical dials, specialized designs (reflective gnomons), new projects (Fleet Street, residential dials), and discoveries (analemmatic dials, Combe Martin noon line, mass dials).
Construction Projects, Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 2
Page 2
Details the history and recent restoration of the monumental obelisk sundial at Drummond Castle, Perthshire, originally dating from 1630. The article introduces the structure, the discovery of complex gnomonic features, and the reinstatement ceremony in June 2019. The restoration included replacing gnomons and correcting misconceptions about its function.
Dials: Multi Faced, Restoration projects, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 11
Page 11
A congratulatory note reporting that long-time BSS member Peter Ransom was presented with an MBE by Prince William in November 2019 for voluntary service to mathematics education. He is noted for contributing to using gnomonics in teaching mathematics and currently serves as the Society’s Education specialist.
The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 29
Page 29
A biography of Gerald Raymond Dunn (1917–2002), detailing his military career, farming attempts, and later ventures, including tracing unclaimed estates and inventing the Cruiserfix solar navigator. He undertook metalwork training and became a sundial maker, specializing in equinoctial ring dials. He also supplied a simple solar compass for a Sahara expedition.
Construction Projects, Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Portable, The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 40
Page 40
A review of Jill Wilson’s expanded third edition of the Biographical Index of British Sundial Makers, featuring nearly 1900 entries (330 more than the previous edition). The book is divided by century, includes illustrations, useful lists of references, and complementary material on London Guilds and apprenticeships.
Book Reviews, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 40
Page 40
Reports that noted BSS member Joanna Migdal was installed as the 2020 Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers on 28 January. In her speech, she referred to famous sundial makers and former Masters, Elias Allen and Henry Wynne. Two other BSS members attended the Installation Dinner.
The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 41
Page 41
Formal material included in the March Bulletin as required by the BSS Constitution, presenting the Annual Report prepared by the Trustees.
The BSS and Members
March 2020
Page 47
Page 47
Formal financial material required by the BSS Constitution, providing the Annual Accounts for the year ending 31 December 2019, along with associated reports.
The BSS and Members
June 2020
Page 18
Page 18
This report outlines 24 sundials newly reported to the BSS Fixed Dial Register in 2019. The entries feature a variety of types, including a Pilkington and Gibbs heliochronometer, several analemmatic dials, and various vertical and horizontal dials located across the UK.
Dials: Analemmatic, Dials: Heliochronometer, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2020
Page 31
Page 31
The author recounts an instance at Pitmedden Castle in 2006 where, using his status as a BSS member, he quickly corrected the orientation of a horizontal sundial that was misaligned by 180 degrees.
Dials: Horizontal, How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the assistance provided by John Davis for desktop publishing following the University of Cambridge closure. Notes the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and the completion of a new computer room for Christine Northeast. Commends Tony Moss's article and sadly announces the obituaries for David Young, Gordon Taylor, and Alan Smith.
The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 2
Page 2
A horizontal slate dial, reliably dated 1767, belonging to Vice Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, is tracked through its travels from Dorset to Australia and back to London. The article concludes with the dial's conservation and placement inside Portesham House, alongside a replica placed outside.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 5
Page 5
Features a photograph of the Yew Tree dial located in the Gardens of Easton Lodge, near Great Dunmow, Essex. The dial was designed by David Young and John Moir.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 20
Page 20
An obituary for David Young, a founder member (no. 3) and Vice-President of the BSS. He served as Secretary for ten years, organised conferences and international ‘sundial safaris,’ and was involved in projects like the Yew Tree Dial and sundial restoration projects.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 21
Page 21
An obituary for Gordon Ernest Taylor (no. 146), the BSS's first Registrar, renowned for his work in astronomy and lunar occultations. Highlights his gnomonic contributions, including a paper on reclining equiangular sundials (Foster-Lambert dial).
Dials: Foster-Lambert, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 22
Page 22
An obituary for Alan Smith (no. 49), noting his career in museum studies and horology. He designed the Towneley Hall Sundial and the Martin Suggett Memorial Sundial in Welsh slate, and contributed extensively to the Bulletin.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2020
Page 46
Page 46
Reports the results of the 2020 BSS Photographic Competition, which was moved online due to the inability to hold the Annual Conference. Mike Shaw won first place for 'Time….. Flys'.
The BSS and Members
December 2020
Page 9
Page 9
John Moir recounts collaborating on a quirky equatorial dial for Mudchute Farm. Julian Greenberg corrects an obituary detail for David Young. Pete Caldwell asks readers to shed light on the proper pronunciation (Greek vs English) of the word 'gnomon'.
Dials: Equatorial, How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
March 2019
Page 1
Page 1
Notes that this March issue contains required formal material (Trustees' Annual Report and Accounts) alongside usual articles, including "Alektryon" and the annual "Dial Dealings". Mentions the sad passing of Jill Wilson and her contribution to mass dial records and the Biographical Index.
The BSS and Members
March 2019
Page 17
Page 17
Obituary for Rosalind Jill Wilson (1929–2018), a highly respected BSS member known for compiling the monumental Biographical Index of British Sundial Makers. Her diverse interests included geology, Egyptology, astronomy, and her work on the Index lists almost 1,900 names. She also left a bequest to the BSS.
The BSS and Members
March 2019
Page 41
Page 41
Reports on the Society reaching its 30th anniversary and maintaining core activities. Highlights successful infrastructure maintenance (Bulletin, website, registers), the publication of the first national Mass Dial Register, and progress on the Biographical Index. Notes the retirement of David Brown and the passing of Jill Wilson, and thanks volunteers.
The BSS and Members
March 2019
Page 44
Page 44
Presents the audited financial accounts for the British Sundial Society for the year ending 31st December 2018. Confirms the healthy financial status of the Society, capable of supporting current activities and future plans.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 1
Page 1
Notes that this issue features an extensive report on the BSS 30th Anniversary Conference in Bath. Highlights include the unveiling of David Brown's refurbished armillary dial and the special anniversary cake. Also mentions erudite articles by Ortwin Feustel and Martin Jenkins, and laments the recent deaths of several distinguished diallists and members.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 19
Page 19
A picture showing the largest of the celebratory cakes baked by Pauline and Michael Faraday that was used for the ceremonial cutting at the 30th Anniversary Conference dinner in Bath.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 27
Page 27
Obituary for BSS member Anton Schmitz (1925–2019), a master German stone mason and sculptor. He was renowned for crafting spherical dials, such as the one at Eifel National Park, and was regarded as one of the most prolific stone sundial makers ever.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 29
Page 29
Official minutes of the AGM held during the Bath conference. Notes the receipt of the accounts and trustees' report, the re-election of Bill Visick as a trustee, and the retirement of David Brown.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 34
Page 34
A note accompanying a photograph of the delegates gathered on the steps outside the Pump Room, Bath, during the Sunday morning visit of the BSS 30th Anniversary Conference.
The BSS and Members
June 2019
Page 38
Page 38
Extensive report on the conference, including the unveiling of an armillary dial plaque in Parade Gardens, tours of local sights, and presentations on ancient solar alignments, Tompion's clocks, the Bologna meridian line, mass dials, and portable sundial design.
The BSS and Members
September 2019
Page 14
Page 14
The author recounts finding a brass strip outside Union Station in Denver, Colorado, marking 105° west longitude, the reference meridian for Mountain Time. He explains to an assembled tour group that this longitude corresponds to Mountain Time being seven hours behind the time in the U.K.
Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 1
Page 1
The December issue covers reports from the Newbury meeting, highlighting the successful restoration of a painted stone sundial based on three talks. It also notes new sundial articles from various geographical locations and includes an obituary for Andrew James.
The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 9
Page 9
Discussion of a postcard featuring The Woodlands School, Burgess Hill, Hampstead, believed to be a pre-War girls' school. The author seeks information about the school's history and whether the sundial visible in the image still exists among the current buildings on the former grounds.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 11
Page 11
A group photograph of the speakers who presented at the Newbury One-Day Meeting on 21 September 2019, taken by Mike Shaw.
The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 16
Page 16
A brief mention of the long lunch break provided at the Newbury One-Day Meeting on 21 September 2019, which allowed attendees time to view the various exhibits inside the hall and outside in the sunshine.
The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 31
Page 31
An obituary for Andrew James (1954–2019), former Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers. He was celebrated for his immense knowledge of horology, his career as a chief scientist for a meter manufacturer, and his significant contributions to sundialling, including carving slate dials and expertise in the technicalities of the Equation of Time.
The BSS and Members
December 2019
Page 39
Page 39
A comprehensive report detailing the presentations given at the annual BSS Newbury meeting. Topics included David Brown's project updates, Frank King's heliodrome concept, Ben Green's heliochronometer, David Burstall’s glass equatorial dial, discussions on the Fixed Dial Register, portable dials, and Martins Gills' new Latvian sundials and the Sundials Atlas website update.
Construction Projects, Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 1
Page 1
Notes on the inclusion of the Trustees’ Annual Report and BSS Accounts in the March issue. Mentions key articles featured, including the annual Dial Dealings, a scholarly account of a Chadburn Bros horizontal dial, a postscript on the 2017 American eclipse, and the serendipitous discovery of the relocated Detroit sundial.
The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 7
Page 7
Reports that BSS member Andrew James was installed as Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers on 23 January. Notes that other BSS members, Joanna Migdal and Keith Scobie-Youngs, also hold positions within the Company as Renter Warden and a Court Assistant.
The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 13
Page 13
Reports on the auction sale of a Joshua Springer horizontal dial for £1,375. The purchaser, based in the USA, subsequently contacted the BSS Help-and-Advice service seeking information on adjusting the dial for a New York latitude.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 19
Page 19
A light-hearted account of finding a British wine in a supermarket that seemed ideal for sundial enthusiasts due to its label, which mentioned grapes from 'every time zone'. They decided against purchasing it due to its low quality implied by the £3 price point.
The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 21
Page 21
A short, humorous piece detailing the author's 80th birthday 'sundial', actually a chocolate cake in the shape of a sundial. The cake was dedicated by his granddaughter, whom he hopes might make an entry for a BSS cake competition.
Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 36
Page 36
An overview of the Society's activities supporting the advancement of gnomonic education. Highlights include extensive outreach (lectures, school workshops), advice to professional bodies (e.g., Buckingham Palace, Royal Observatory Greenwich), maintenance of the national sundial database, and the healthy financial status of the BSS. Membership numbers and age distribution are discussed as a cause for concern.
The BSS and Members
March 2018
Page 39
Page 39
Presents the audited financial accounts for the British Sundial Society for the year ending 31st December 2017. The accounts confirm the healthy financial status of the Society, capable of supporting current activities for the foreseeable future.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 1
Page 1
Discusses the importance of the BSS Register of Fixed Dials, maintained by John Foad, and urges members to report new or updated dials. It notes the lack of a Register of Mass Dials and solicits help to assess the raw data held at the Borthwick Institute. Frank King also wishes dial-maker Tony Moss a happy retirement.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 9
Page 9
Laments the absence of a comprehensive Mass Dial Register, similar to the existing Fixed Dial Register. The letter notes that raw data exists at the Borthwick Institute and proposes creating either a full Mass Dial Register or an abridged version to list church locations, dedications, and the number of mass dials.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 24
Page 24
A valedictory article detailing the author's final metal sundial commissions for Newcastle High School for Girls. He recounts the challenges of etching brass and ultimately hand-engraving the lines to ensure durability. The article marks the conclusion of his two decades of intensive dial production.
Construction Projects, Dials: Horizontal, The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 33
Page 33
A short note confirming that the gavel, crafted for the Society by John Lester, was utilised by Chairman Frank King to officially commence the BSS Annual General Meeting.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 34
Page 34
Report on the NASS Conference in St Louis, held to coincide with the 2017 solar eclipse. Visits included the Korean War Memorial vertical dial and the Missouri Botanical Gardens, featuring a Richard Schmoyer Sunquest dial. An Ottoman-style horizontal dial displaying Italian and Babylonian hours was also seen.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 37
Page 37
Summarises the results of the Photographic Competition held at the Norwich Annual Conference. David Le Conte won first place, Mike Shaw second, and Ian Butson third. The competition received 26 entries from eleven members, including participants from overseas.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 41
Page 41
Report on the conference, including presentations on modelling the Earth's terminator, developments in double horizontal dials, Brian Huggett's heliochronometer (Mark II), and research on sundial patentee E.G. Hewitt. The conference also featured tours of local historical dials and the Andrew Somerville Memorial Lecture.
Historical Dials, How Sundials Work, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 47
Page 47
Reports that BSS member Anthony Turner was awarded the 2018 Paul Bunge Prize. The prize recognises outstanding contributions to the history of scientific instruments, honouring Anthony's lifetime achievements in astronomical and mathematical-physical instruments.
The BSS and Members
June 2018
Page 48
Page 48
Official documentation of the Annual General Meeting held in Norwich. Graham Stapleton and Chris Williams were re-elected as charity trustees. Independent Examiners Ltd was appointed to examine the 2018 annual statement of accounts.
The BSS and Members
September 2018
Page 1
Page 1
Notes that this issue is slightly thinner due to fewer article submissions. Mentions Anthony Turner’s article on a glass sundial centre panel and John Wilson’s piece detailing the BSS library in Nottingham. Expresses gratitude to authors, noting the long sunny summer should have encouraged sundial photography.
The BSS and Members
September 2018
Page 22
Page 22
Details the BSS Library, housed in the Thoroton Room of the historic Bromley House Library in Nottingham. The collection is for reference only and includes valuable books kept in locked cupboards. The Library building, which also houses a brass meridian line and a heliochronometer, is currently undergoing a major restoration programme.
The BSS and Members
September 2018
Page 27
Page 27
Obituary for Professor Ian David Phimester Wootton, a senior BSS member and respected chemical pathologist who pioneered routine blood tests. A founding member of the Association of Clinical Biochemists, he was BSS membership number 172, serving as the Society's first formal Registrar and introducing the computerised relational database system used today.
The BSS and Members
December 2018
Page 6
Page 6
Features two sundials in the model village of Port Sunlight (SRN 2419 and SRN 2420) depicted on postcards, the first one published by Lever Brothers. The first is a cross dial at 11 Bath Street, and the second is a declining dial on the Dell Bridge which currently lacks its gnomon.
Dials: Polar, Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2018
Page 32
Page 32
A short note pointing out that a bronze sundial made by the author, featuring a figure of Shakespeare and the motto “Life’s but a walking shadow”, was used on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2017 Christmas card.
Construction Projects, Mottoes, The BSS and Members
December 2018
Page 37
Page 37
Reports on the successful celebrations, including a magnificent cake, for the 25th anniversary of the North American Sundial Society (NASS) held at their Pittsburgh conference. Notes the upcoming 30th anniversary of the BSS in 2019.
The BSS and Members
December 2018
Page 44
Page 44
Summary of presentations at the Newbury meeting, covering topics such as aligning boulder dials, using Trespa® as a novel material, dialling scales for laying out dials, Martins Gills' London dial research, Kevin Karney's EoT website, Graham Parks' north wall reflected dial, and John Davis' particle physics experiments on early dials.
The BSS and Members
December 2018
Page 52
Page 52
A tribute to the BSS Sundial Glossary for providing the necessary formulae to understand and reproduce the complex criss-cross patterns of Babylonian and Italian hours observed on a polyhedral Scottish dial. The writer provides a faithful reproduction of the hour lines.
Dials: Multi Faced, How Sundials Work, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
March 2017
Page 41
Page 41
Includes translation and historical context for the Greek motto ‘Zoe Atme skie’ ('Life is smoke, shadow'), previously found on a dial in the Isle of Man and now noted in Edinburgh. Also features a letter discussing a member's return to simple sundial construction using reclaimed materials.
DIY Sundial Projects, Dials: Vertical, Mottoes, The BSS and Members
March 2017
Page 42
Page 42
Report covering BSS activities: membership levels were flat with a small decline, finances saw a surplus, and four quality Bulletins were produced. It highlights the continued success of the website as the main source of new members and the value of the Help and Advice service.
The BSS and Members
March 2017
Page 44
Page 44
The audited financial statements for the British Sundial Society for the previous calendar year, presented as required by the new Constitution for the Charitable Incorporated Organisation.
The BSS and Members
June 2017
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial announces the obituary of Allan Mills and includes a report of the Oxford Conference and the AGM Minutes. It reminds members registering sundials to take a crucial side view of the gnomon for the Society’s records, as these views are essential should the gnomon ever go astray.
The BSS and Members
June 2017
Page 33
Page 33
A short, humorous piece noting a poster seen by conference delegates advertising the Oxford Museum of the History of Science. The author pointed out that the poster designer should have checked what a sundial looks like.
The BSS and Members
June 2017
Page 38
Page 38
This is an obituary for Allan Alfred Mills (1933–2017), BSS membership number 008, who was a strong contributor to the Bulletin. A lecturer in Planetary Science, he was known for his work on scientific instruments, models (often in wood), and investigation into obscure phenomena.
The BSS and Members
June 2017
Page 42
Page 42
A detailed report on the 2017 BSS Annual Conference in Oxford. Summaries include talks on determining wall declination, the analysis of a double vertical dial, 17th-century eclipse dials, and a presentation suggesting the Navicula originated in East Anglia.
The BSS and Members
June 2017
Page 48
Page 48
Records the proceedings of the AGM held in Oxford on 22 April 2017. Business included receiving the 2016 accounts, the re-election of trustees Jackie Jones and Frank King, and discussing potential advertising efforts to counteract the fall in membership.
The BSS and Members
September 2017
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial encourages conference speakers and attendees of Newbury meetings to submit articles to the Bulletin for the benefit of all members. It also reminds members that holiday photographs of sundials, such as those featured in 'A Missed Opportunity', can be developed into published articles.
The BSS and Members
September 2017
Page 21
Page 21
An obituary for Peter-Jochen Kunath (1944–2017), a German enthusiast and BSS member who calculated and built numerous sundials. He collected and translated over 2,000 Latin aphorisms, and won the 2012 Bulletin ‘Most Enjoyed Article’ award for his piece on Henry Moore’s equatorial dial.
The BSS and Members
September 2017
Page 26
Page 26
This describes the creation of a temporary analemmatic sundial on the grounds of Wroxton Primary School, intended as an educational resource. Components were made from red plastic board using stencils and spray paint. Alignment relied on Google Earth data, as the sun did not appear. The authors suggest this project, executed before the Oxford Conference, could become a BSS custom.
Construction Projects, DIY Sundial Projects, Dials: Analemmatic, The BSS and Members
September 2017
Page 48
Page 48
This entry references an extensive survey compiled by Mike Cowham and Fred Sawyer, covering English language sundial books published from the late 16th to the early 20th centuries. The survey is now available for members on the BSS website.
Book Reviews, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 1
Page 1
The editorial notes reports on talks from the Newbury Meeting, particularly those by John Davis and Ian Butson, which were expanded into full articles. It reports the death of Frank Evans and mentions a time-related exhibition on 'The Clockwork Universe' in Pavia, Italy, which runs until 23 December.
The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 5
Page 5
Features a photograph and description of a vertical fibreglass sundial, the handiwork of David Pawley, situated high on the south front of Sundial House near the Newbury train station.
Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 18
Page 18
A report on the observation of the total solar eclipse of 21 August 2017, held during the NASS conference at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. Methods of observation, including a kitchen strainer, a reflection instrument, and Bill Gottesman's ingenious Eclipse Sundial, telling the time by the angle of the line between the sun's horns, are described.
Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 21
Page 21
A detailed report on the BSS one-day meeting, summarising talks on topics including the Fort Belan sundial, DIY heliochronometers, multi-centre delineation, promotion via social media, the astronomical Culpeper dial, the Gnomonical Universal Nomograph (GUN), and the mechanical generation of the Equation of Time using equation clocks.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 37
Page 37
Describes a single-sided equatorial sundial, made from a pebble, that was given to delegates at the 2017 NASS Conference. The gnomon features a crescent cut-out as a memento of the solar eclipse, and time is read from the leading edge shadow falling on sandblasted alternate gaps.
Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Portable, Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
December 2017
Page 39
Page 39
An obituary for Frank Evans (1926–2017), BSS member No. 37, a strong Bulletin contributor, who was a former Merchant Navy officer and a lecturer in marine biology.
The BSS and Members
March 2016
Page 1
Page 1
This section notifies readers that the Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts for 2015 are published in this issue, as required by the new Constitution. It asks members to submit their votes for their three most enjoyed articles of 2015. It also announces the transitioning of Bulletin production staff, with David and Jen Brown joining the team.
The BSS and Members
March 2016
Page 33
Page 33
This report details the Society's efforts in public education, including the Bulletin, enhanced website, schools outreach, conferences, and dial recording. It notes a decline in membership due to an ageing structure and the progressive retirement of stalwart volunteers.
The BSS and Members
March 2016
Page 36
Page 36
The formal financial statements and accounts for the British Sundial Society for the year ended 31st December 2015.
The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 1
Page 1
This issue covers the Liverpool Conference, including accounts of the talks, awards, and photographic competition. It announces that Christine Northeast’s article "‘The Moving Sundial of Ardrossan’" was the ‘Most Enjoyed Article 2015’. The editorial team encourages readers to submit new articles, especially those detailing historical interests or new sundial construction projects.
The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 16
Page 16
Report on the Society’s fifth award scheme (2010–2015), which resulted in fourteen submissions (including one restoration and one reproduction) from three continents. Certificates were awarded to all accurate and well-designed entrants, with several highly commended. Brief summaries of dials by David Brown, Tim Chalk, Tony Moss, Charles Perry, and others are provided.
Construction Projects, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 34
Page 34
A list of over 200 sundials newly reported to the BSS Register in 2015, ranging from the 17th to 21st centuries. Examples include a 1540 wooden dial, a 1799 horizontal dial by Liverpool clockmaker Thomas Harrison, an exquisite square dial installed for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, and a modern spiral analemmatic dial.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Unusual, Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 39
Page 39
A crossword puzzle provided for the enjoyment of members. Most answers relate to sundialling concepts, makers, and terminology, with five answers unconnected to the subject.
The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 40
Page 40
Report on the competition held at the Liverpool Conference, where results were determined by a vote from attending members. Ian Butson’s entry, "Does anyone have the right time, please?" won first place, followed by Darek Oczki’s and Margaret Ribchester’s entries.
The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 44
Page 44
A report on the 2016 Conference talks, including Geoff Parsons on a polar dial in Darwin, Fred Sawyer on self-orientating dials, John Davis on the Bulletin, and Seb Falk on medieval astronomical instruments. Also covered are the Sundial Awards and Photographic Competition results.
The BSS and Members
June 2016
Page 48
Page 48
Formal minutes of the AGM held on 16 April 2016 under the new Charitable Incorporated Organisation constitution. The 2015 accounts and trustees' report were accepted, Bill Visick was re-elected as trustee, and Independent Examiners Ltd was reappointed.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 1
Page 1
Congratulates Sue Manston for completing the challenging crossword puzzle, the solution for which is in this issue. It notes the wide variety of articles, including significant historical research and reports on dials found during members' travels. The team encourages readers to submit new information or photographs of sundials encountered.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 10
Page 10
An obituary for Margaret Ribchester, a much-loved, enthusiastic dial seeker who contributed over a hundred accurate and historically rich reports to the BSS Register since 2009, mainly from Lancashire and Yorkshire. She was a frequent contributor to the Photographic Competition, winning a prize this year.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 21
Page 21
Informs members that the Italian sundial magazine *Orologi Solari* has released its tenth free online issue, continuing the legacy of earlier Italian gnomonics publications. It states that articles in English are welcome and may be published in both Italian and the original version.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 33
Page 33
Provides the complete solution to the challenging crossword puzzle, which was set by John Lester and featured in the previous issue of the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 34
Page 34
Describes the construction of a large, temporary 6x4 metre analemmatic sundial marked out in the sand at Crosby Beach, Liverpool, utilizing one of Antony Gormley’s cast-iron statues as the gnomon. The team had to use satnav and landmarks to establish the meridian due to the lack of sun.
Construction Projects, Dials: Analemmatic, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 36
Page 36
Report on a study trip to Poland organised by the Astronomical Society in Hradec Králové (Czech Republic), focusing on sundials and gnomonics. Visits included the Przypkowskich Museum, an observatory with programs for blind people, and the Silesian Planetarium which features a large courtyard sundial.
The BSS and Members
September 2016
Page 36
Page 36
Features a photograph submitted by Margaret Ribchester (whose obituary appears on page 10) for the 2016 Photographic Competition. The image captures the 18th-century dial (SRN 0194) at Sizergh Castle, noted for its beautiful setting, and its apparent lack of hour lines.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2016
Page 1
Page 1
The editorial notes the Newbury Meeting report and upcoming articles. It welcomes submissions and wishes readers well for the New Year. It also announces two full-page advertisements and highlights articles concerning Mrs Crowley and BSS Monograph 11, which features astonishing quality photographs of mass dials in Somerset.
Book Reviews, The BSS and Members
December 2016
Page 20
Page 20
Summary of research uncovering a now-missing historic sundial near the Stonebeach in Old Hastings. Records mention maintenance from 1642. The author's ancestor, clockmaker Joseph Carswell, made a new brass gnomon (or 'cock') for the dial in 1746.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2016
Page 29
Page 29
Report covering talks from the 2016 Newbury Meeting. Highlights include John Bird dial investigation, Didsbury stained glass restoration updates, discussions on Wenger and Mojoptix dials, approaches to moon dials, modern sundial challenges, and the Easton Lodge restoration project.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2015
Page 1
Page 1
This issue has been prepared by the Chairman, Christine Northeast, and Bill Visick. They acknowledge assistance from John Davis, mention the issue is back to normal length, and note that several articles are being held over until June.
The BSS and Members
March 2015
Page 13
Page 13
An obituary for Michael Maltin, DFC (1920–2014), a retired RAF pilot (Spitfires and Lancasters) and a very early member of the BSS (Membership No. 29). His interests included accurate timekeeping, navigation by the sun, and electrical horology. He actively assisted with gnomonic projects, including determining the meridian for the enormous Woodchester ‘Unicorn’ Dial.
The BSS and Members
March 2015
Page 26
Page 26
This entry refers to extracts from the British Sundial Society's accounts for the period covering the changeover from the 'old' Society to the 'new' Society. The full report, prepared by Independent Examiners Ltd., is available to members online or upon application to the Treasurer.
The BSS and Members
June 2015
Page 20
Page 20
An obituary for Mike Groom (d. January 2015, aged 73), an engineer who joined the BSS in the early 1990s after independently calculating sundial trigonometry. He was active in conferences, designed a Jubilee dial, and was a successful dinghy helmsman.
The BSS and Members
June 2015
Page 41
Page 41
A comprehensive report on the conference sessions, including talks on Australian sundials, the history of Enid Blyton's dial, the Burlingham Sundial Trail, Mike Groom's heliochronometer, and site visits to Bromley House Library and Green's Mill.
Construction Projects, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2015
Page 45
Page 45
Records the proceedings of the first AGM held under the new Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) constitution on 11 April 2015 in Nottingham. The minutes, accounts, and trustees’ report were accepted, and trustees were re-elected.
The BSS and Members
June 2015
Page 46
Page 46
A report outlining the Society’s activities, including celebrating the Silver Jubilee, improving the website interface (Bridol operational), holding educational workshops at Cheney School, implementing the CIO status change, and acknowledging member participation.
The BSS and Members
June 2015
Page 48
Page 48
Financial statements for the period covering the dissolution of the 'old' Registered Charity and the opening accounts of the 'new' CIO Society, showing that income and expenditure were balanced for the calendar year 2014.
The BSS and Members
September 2015
Page 1
Page 1
A short item reporting that three UK British Sundial Society (BSS) members (Frank King, Doug Bateman, and Jackie Jones) gave talks at the recent North American Sundial Society (NASS) Conference in Canada. Further details regarding the event will be featured in the December Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
September 2015
Page 12
Page 12
September 2015
Page 16
Page 16
Obituary for Alan Cook, who died in March 2015. He made a considerable contribution to the Mass Dial Group, notably by compiling the complete Register for Yorkshire, which was published as two monographs by the Society.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 1
Page 1
Discussion of the current issue's mixed content, noting a dominance of Scottish locations, and a reminder to readers to vote for the "most enjoyed article in the four 2015 issues." The result will be announced at the 2016 BSS Conference in Liverpool.
The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 5
Page 5
Recounts the life of Andrew Somerville, first Chairman of the BSS, known for cataloguing ancient Scottish polyhedral dials. It describes his talk on "symbolic" dials and the humorous anecdote surrounding the temporary snow obelisk dial he constructed.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 14
Page 14
A report on the 2015 NASS Conference in Victoria, BC, Canada, which included presentations on gnomonics and sundial tours. The tour featured several dials, including the Orca totem dial and the impressive Ogden Point analemmatic dial.
Dials: Analemmatic, Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 23
Page 23
Announcement that Mike Shaw won the Most Enjoyed Article of 2014 award for his piece on ‘The Eaton Hall Sundial Pillar’. It is noted that the pillar, which had been previously misaligned, was finally corrected.
The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 24
Page 24
Recounts a guided tour of Seattle dials following the NASS conference, featuring four dials designed by Woody Sullivan. Highlights include an elaborate analemmatic dial in Gas Works Park, a vertical declining dial at UW, and the earliest Seattle dial dating from 1909.
Dials: Analemmatic, Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
December 2015
Page 37
Page 37
A report on the annual BSS Newbury meeting featuring various talks and exhibits. Highlights include Irene Brightmer’s discovery of a globe dial within a stone sphere, Martin Jenkins' DIY garden projects, and Frank King's demonstration of an umbrella as an astronomical instrument.
DIY Sundial Projects, Dials: Hemispherical, Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
March 2014
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial marks the British Sundial Society's 25th anniversary year and notes the wide range of articles in the Bulletin, spanning prehistory to modern dials. Members are encouraged to research and report on at least one sundial, old or new, in the coming year, leveraging resources like the internet, to ensure the continued breadth of the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
March 2014
Page 25
Page 25
Christopher Daniel, President and past Chairman of the British Sundial Society, was formally presented with his MBE by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace on 19 December 2013.
The BSS and Members
June 2014
Page 15
Page 15
Notes the recent unveiling of blue plaques in Derby commemorating John Flamsteed, the first Astronomer Royal, and John Whitehurst FRS, a renowned clockmaker and sundial maker. It highlights their historical connection, as Whitehurst later occupied a house formerly owned by Flamsteed.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 10
Page 10
Recounts the personal story of Edward Brown, a Yorkshireman who, after being made redundant, funded his own stonemasonry course and dedicated ten years (1981–1991) to restoring St Augustine’s Parish Church in Skirlaugh, including the repair of its vertical stone sundial.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 13
Page 13
An anecdote about being commissioned in 1980 to delineate a horizontal sundial plate, constructed by silversmith Brian Asquith, as a surprise 80th birthday gift for Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, followed by the author's humorous reflection on declining a suggested installation date.
Dials: Horizontal, The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 17
Page 17
Describes efforts to promote the British Sundial Society at the annual meeting of south-east astronomy societies at the Chichester Planetarium, featuring talks by members (Doug Bateman on the Greenwich time ball) and a display of dials and books.
The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 24
Page 24
Research into a square, tapering stone pillar sundial at Eaton Hall, designed by Lutyens (1898) with dials by F. Barker & Son. The pillar has been moved multiple times on the estate and currently stands incorrectly orientated (rotated 180 degrees), despite expert advice.
Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 34
Page 34
A detailed report on the 25th Anniversary Conference held at the University of Greenwich, covering presentations on topics such as extreme ring dials, Australian sundials, Robert Jole's dial, the Eaton Hall pillar, the Greenwich Time Ball, and a guided tour of the Royal Observatory.
The BSS and Members
September 2014
Page 45
Page 45
Report on the special 25th anniversary photographic competition, where results were determined solely by a conference vote by participating members. Mike Shaw won first and third place with 'Chicago Sunset' and 'Frozen in Time,' while Rainer Jacob came second.
The BSS and Members
December 2014
Page 1
Page 1
This section discusses the necessity of having three members (the Chairman, Bill Visick, and Christine Northeast) hold the fort due to the regular editor suffering significant health problems. It recognizes John Davis’s past contributions to expanding and improving the Bulletin. The Trustees are currently considering how best to distribute the editorial workload going forward.
The BSS and Members
December 2014
Page 19
Page 19
The author shares an inspiring anecdote about a young boy named Stephen who made a Plasticine dial. In response, a personalized phosphor bronze dial was made for him, which in turn encouraged Stephen's father to create his own digital MDF dial. This illustrates how new diallists can be cultivated from small, genuine sparks of interest.
DIY Sundial Projects, The BSS and Members
December 2014
Page 27
Page 27
A summary of the Newbury BSS meeting, covering diverse topics including David Brown's talk on commission pitfalls and Kevin Karney's push for mean time dials incorporating the Equation of Time. Frank King reported on historical dials at the Bodleian Library. Attendees viewed the Druid helical mean-time dial at Bayford House Care Home.
Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 1
Page 1
An introductory note encouraging readers to contribute articles on modern sundials and new designs, while reflecting on the value of historical dial studies and member participation in the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 14
Page 14
A tribute to Phil Rogers, recalling his long-standing interest in sundials, his work within the British Sundial Society, and his contributions to dialling scholarship.
Obituaries, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 19
Page 19
A short report on the BSS presence at a school science fair, describing the public response, educational displays, and promotion of sundial science to younger audiences.
How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 24
Page 24
An account of the first international conference devoted to sundials, organised in Italy in the 1980s. Turner outlines its origins, participants, and its influence on dialling scholarship.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 26
Page 26
A literary exploration of references to sundials in the works of Charles Dickens. The author interprets the dials as metaphors for time, mortality, and moral reflection in Victorian literature.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 33
Page 33
A short notice announcing that Frank King has received the Sawyer Prize for contributions to dialling. It summarises his achievements and ongoing work for the Society.
The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 41
Page 41
A review of sundials sold at major auction houses during 2012. It lists significant instruments, their makers, sale prices, and remarks on market trends in dial collecting.
Dials: Double Horizontal, Dials: Portable, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 44
Page 44
A collection of letters discussing Society matters, mass-dial archives, and north-facing dials. Contributors debate historical interpretations and the future of BSS collections.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2013
Page 46
Page 46
A travel article recounting visits to sundials in Montreal and Toronto, including modern designs and meetings with Canadian sundial enthusiasts.
Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 1
Page 1
An introduction noting the results of the 2012 Most Enjoyed Article Award, discussion of member contributions, and the editor’s reflections on the diversity of topics and reader engagement in the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 11
Page 11
A collection of correspondence from members discussing topics such as the BSS library, dial design conventions, and Society matters.
The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 12
Page 12
An artistic proposal for a monumental sundial inspired by *Romeo and Juliet*, designed for Stratford-upon-Avon. The article describes its symbolism, geometry, and design for public installation.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Vertical, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 28
Page 28
The official minutes of the 24th Annual General Meeting of the British Sundial Society, summarising reports, elections, and member discussions.
The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 30
Page 30
A summary of the Society’s annual financial accounts, including income, expenditure, and membership statistics.
The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 41
Page 41
An exploration of collectible Fry’s Chocolate trading cards depicting historical sundials. The author traces their origins, artwork, and educational intent.
Historical Dials, Mottoes, The BSS and Members
June 2013
Page 52
Page 52
A report on the 2013 BSS Conference in Edinburgh, covering talks, site visits, and the social and scholarly activities of Society members.
The BSS and Members
September 2013
Page 1
Page 1
Announcement and congratulation for Christopher Daniel, President of the BSS, on being awarded the MBE for services to timekeeping and sundials. The award was noted by the press, highlighting the importance of his work in dialling.
The BSS and Members
September 2013
Page 5
Page 5
Report on Peter Kunath winning the award for his article on the Henry Moore sundial. He received a certificate and a reproduction astrolabe, which proved useful as he had been asked to explain the operation of a c. 1400 astrolabe at the Cologne City Museum.
Dials: Astrolabe, The BSS and Members
September 2013
Page 20
Page 20
Review of the BSS Photographic Competition 2012–13, detailing the scoring changes and normalization process used for judging. Elzbieta Niedbalka won first place with ‘Sunny bird feeder’, Mike Shaw was second, and Mike Cowham took third place.
The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial encourages readers to vote for their 'Most Enjoyed Article' from the four 2013 issues, noting that the last year's competition was won by a single vote. It announces this as a 'bumper Christmas issue'.
The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 15
Page 15
An obituary for Peter Drinkwater (1947–2013), author of *The Art of Sundial Construction* (1985). He was an eccentric, self-taught author, artist, and diallist who studied classical works at the Bodleian Library.
The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 16
Page 16
An account of a guided trip to London sundials, visiting the noon mark dial in Paternoster Square, a horizontal dial at Amen Court (attributed to Wren), the polar dial by Piers Nicholson, dials at Cheapside and St Katherine Cree, and the large horizontal dial over Tower Hill Underground Station.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Polar, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 18
Page 18
A selection of recent additions to the Sundial Register, including a cuboctahedron (1823), a geographical dial (1720) by Robert Spurrell, the restored 'Smith Dial' (1858), a river bridge dial (1770), and various vertical, cube, and pillar dials across England and Scotland.
Dials: Cube, Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 20
Page 20
Discusses a postcard (postmarked 1903) showing a dial from St Deiniol’s Churchyard, Hawarden, Clwyd (SRN 6671), which is now missing. The dial was dated 1735 and signed "Geo: Jones del" and inscribed with the names of the church wardens.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 32
Page 32
An appreciation of the late sculptor Edwin Russell (1939–2013), Fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors and Artistic Director of Brookbrae Ltd. It highlights his collaborations, notably the Dolphin Sundial in Greenwich (1978), and his dedication to perfection, inspiring his student Joanna Migdal.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members, Dials: Armillary Sphere
December 2013
Page 34
Page 34
Explores the history and significance of lead Blackamoor and Indian figures supporting sundials in Georgian gardens, associating them with the wealth derived from the Atlantic slave trade. There is an inventory of known figures and their sculptors (John Nost I/II, Carpentiere, Cheere).
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 40
Page 40
Discusses the controversial practice of reworking or re-cutting old mass dials. The British Sundial Society's policy is against restoration, suggesting a copy dial be carved nearby instead. Examples of reworked dials at Crewkerne, Lamas, and Martyr Worthy are provided.
Dials: Mass Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2013
Page 42
Page 42
Report on the BSS Newbury meeting held on the autumn equinox. Talks included the Sundials of Eaton Hall, the Horniman Museum trail, the Zutphen Quadrant, and construction projects like David Brown's M-29 double horizontal dial and Mike Lee's Sun Clock.
Construction Projects, Dials: Double Horizontal, Dials: Heliochronometer, The BSS and Members
March 2012
Page 38
Page 38
This short piece describes a tradition of local people climbing an artificial hill to view the Silver-link Park sundial at midnight on New Year's Eve to watch firework displays, highlighting a unique, non-gnomonic interaction with the sundial.
The BSS and Members
March 2012
Page 42
Page 42
This section features letters from readers discussing various sundial topics. Peter Drinkwater discusses dial transmission and an Islamic scratch dial. Tony Wood offers insights into the progress of "scientific" sundials. John Moir describes "Suburban Reflections" from his front garden.
How Sundials Work, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2012
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial discusses feedback from a recent membership survey regarding the Bulletin. It addresses contradictory comments on article topics and tone, highlights a consensus for more design and construction articles, and touches on ideas for a beginners' series, sundial trails, and the ongoing debate about a digital version of the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
June 2012
Page 25
Page 25
This entry presents the minutes from the British Sundial Society's 23rd Annual General Meeting held in Cheltenham.
The BSS and Members
June 2012
Page 48
Page 48
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's annual conference in Cheltenham. It covers various talks including Allan Mills on the Gaocheng Observatory, Kevin Karney on sundial software, Johan Wikander on Norwegian horizontal dials, and presentations by David Brown and Tony Moss on their dial designs. The conference also featured a discussion forum on the Society's future and a tour of local dials.
DIY Sundial Projects, Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2012
Page 1
Page 1
The editor explains the shortage of material for this issue, so that several articles have been written by the editor. He encourages members to contribute various content, from short pieces to full-blown research studies. This issue features further articles about polyhedral dials.
The BSS and Members
September 2012
Page 18
Page 18
This entry refers to a group photograph taken during the British Sundial Society conference held in Cheltenham in 2012.
The BSS and Members
September 2012
Page 34
Page 34
An obituary for Peter Hingley (1951-2012), the RAS Librarian, who played a quiet but influential role in the British Sundial Society's affiliation with the Royal Astronomical Society. He was recognised for his knowledge of antiquarian astronomy and gnomonics, and his absence will be felt at Council meetings.
The BSS and Members
September 2012
Page 45
Page 45
This entry describes a sundial exhibition held from June to September 2012 in the Turrill Sculpture Garden, Summertown, Oxford. It features 11 dials by BSS members, including David Harber's bronze dial and armillary sphere, Chris Lusby Taylor's sculptural "Undial" and "From Sunrise to Sunset" dials, and a cube dial by Harriet James.
Dials: Unusual, The BSS and Members, Dials: Cube, Dials: Armillary Sphere
December 2012
Page 1
Page 1
This section discusses the British Sundial Society's new Most Enjoyed Article Award encouraging members to vote for their favourite articles from Volume 24. The award aims to recognise authors, inspire new contributors, and guide the editor in tailoring future issues to readership preferences. It underscores the importance of member engagement in shaping the Bulletin's content.
The BSS and Members
December 2012
Page 28
Page 28
This report summarises the BSS Newbury Meeting, covering presentations on John Davis's "Mystery Welsh Sundial," Doug Bateman's "Romeo & Juliet Sundial," Kevin Karney's "Getting the Numbers Right" on dial layouts, and John Foad's project to put BSS Register dials online.
How Sundials Work, Mathematics of Dialling, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2012
Page 36
Page 36
This report details the British Sundial Society's 2012 safari to Catalonia, covering visits to numerous sundials across Girona, Cabrils, Figueres, Barcelona, and other towns. Members explored diverse dials, including modern pillar dials, Salvador Dali's carved stone dial, multi-faceted and unusual museum pieces, showcasing the region's rich gnomonic heritage.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2012
Page 47
Page 47
This article details the 2012 reconstruction of the Meridies Media noon mark mean time sundial at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. Originally designed by Dr Tadeusz Przypkowski in 1967 with a design error, the new Kirkstone slate dial, carved by Ben Jones, was meticulously crafted and unveiled on 10 October 2012.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members, Dials: Noon Lines
June 2011
Page 1
Page 1
The editorial discusses the popularity of the previous themed Bulletin on polyhedral dials and plans for future themed issues, acknowledging the difficulty in organising them. It also mentions the delay of the conference report to the September issue to allow for article variety.
The BSS and Members
June 2011
Page 14
Page 14
This chronicle by a founding member of the BSS details his career at the National Maritime Museum, his early involvement with sundials, and his experiences designing notable dials like the 'Dolphin' sundial for the Queen's Silver Jubilee, leading up to the formation of the BSS.
Sundial Design & Layout, Construction Projects, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2011
Page 26
Page 26
This note describes the discovery of the 'missing' John Rowley azimuth dial from Blenheim Palace, which was identified on a new passport design. It details the dial's distinctive features and its reinstallation in 2008.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members, Dials: Double Horizontal
June 2011
Page 27
Page 27
This entry summarises the proceedings of the BSS 22nd Annual General Meeting, including the Chairman's remarks, approval of previous minutes, council member reports (Secretary, Editor, Register, Mass Dial Group, Advertising, Safaris, Treasurer, Membership, Competitions), election of new officers, and post-AGM discussions.
The BSS and Members
June 2011
Page 28
Page 28
This section provides a summary of the British Sundial Society's accounts for 2010, indicating an underlying decline in funds due to low interest rates and falling membership, necessitating a future increase in subscription rates.
The BSS and Members
June 2011
Page 33
Page 33
This article reports on the 2010 Photographic Competition, detailing the judging process, the unprecedented triple win by Mike Cowham, and the top ten entries. It also announces the shift to a biennial competition schedule to encourage more participation.
The BSS and Members
June 2011
Page 43
Page 43
Gordon Taylor describes challenges in orienting the Seven Dials monument. John Foad, the Registrar, corrects the number of war memorial dials in the BSS Register, increasing the total and, consequently, the estimated number of unfound dials using Tony Wood's formula.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2011
Page 1
Page 1
This issue contains the report of our highly successful annual conference at Wyboston Lakes. That nearly 20% of the membership managed to attend must reflect highly on the keenness of our members – and the reputation of the event – especially when a significant number live overseas. The issue, together with the June one, presents written versions of some of the papers presented during the weekend.
The BSS and Members
September 2011
Page 8
Page 8
This article details the results of the British Sundial Society's 2010-11 Photographic Competition's 'Conference Vote' segment. Delegates at the Wyboston Lakes conference had the opportunity to vote for their favourite photographs, with Dennis Cowan's 'Sail into the sun' winning, and Dariusz Oczki's 'It’s not fair, he always gets more sun' coming in second.
The BSS and Members
September 2011
Page 27
Page 27
This report highlights a successful gnomonical science studies programme by the Nature Club of Pakistan in Lahore and Faisalabad schools with support from the BSS.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Equatorial, How Sundials Work, DIY Sundial Projects, The BSS and Members
September 2011
Page 28
Page 28
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's highly successful 2011 annual conference at Wyboston Lakes, attended by nearly 20% of its members. It covers various presentations, including Allan Mills on sun's position, Tony Moss on dial manufacture, Johan Wikander on a Norwegian soapstone dial, Fred Sawyer on Jean Picard's large dial layouts, and John Davis on the diffusion of scientific dials.
Historical Dials, Mathematics of Dialling, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
September 2011
Page 37
Page 37
This section compiles several letters from readers. Michael Lowne provides a complex formula for calculating shadow length from gnomon angle. Chris Williams praises Peter Drinkwater's article on scratch dials, linking them to medieval manuscripts. Peter Drinkwater responds on the transmission of scratch dial technology and the function of water clocks. David Young corrects a historical detail about BSS conference venues.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
December 2011
Page 1
Page 1
A bumper Christmas edition including plenty of varied reading over this quiet period of the year for dialling, including some continued inputs from overseas writers. It is always interesting to see how different cultures interpret the artistic side of dialling, even if the astronomy remains universal. The responses to the membership survey are continuing to come in and the Secretary will feed back anything relevant to the Bulletin when he sums up.
The BSS and Members
December 2011
Page 10
Page 10
This report covers the British Sundial Society's 2011 safari to the Sarthe and Perche regions of France, based in Le Mans. The group visited various sundials, historical sites, and chateaux, including a specific mean-time dial in Le Mans and other vertical and mass dials in surrounding villages. The trip offered cultural experiences and opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts.
Dials: Vertical, Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Equatorial, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2011
Page 14
Page 14
This article reports on a sundial festival at Gatchina Palace, St Petersburg, which included the unveiling of a replica historical sundial and an exhibition. The replica dial indicates true solar time according to 18th-century standards, based on historical photos and other archival material for restoration. The event celebrated the return of the sundial to its historical place after almost 80 years.
Sundial Design & Layout, Restoration projects, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2011
Page 47
Page 47
This section contains letters from readers discussing various sundial topics. These include formulae for horizontal shadow length, a query about the oldest scientific sundial in the British Isles, sundials in family crests, proposed organisational changes within the BSS, and the historical transmission of scratch dials and water-clock functionality. It highlights ongoing member engagement and research interests.
Mathematics of Dialling, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members, Mottoes
December 2011
Page 50
Page 50
This report details the British Sundial Society's Newbury meeting, featuring talks on topics such as a metal-detected Norfolk horologium, ceiling reflection dials, leap years and calendars, repairing old books, lifting heavy sundials, war memorial dials, and heliochronometers. Exhibits included a cross dial and an equation of time analogue computer, showcasing a diverse range of gnomonic interests.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Dials: Reflected, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2010
Page 1
Page 1
In this issue, we have articles from Greece, South Africa (two!) and Italy. Our members holiday abroad and are always on the lookout, camera in hand, for dials and here we have a collection from Spain, Russia, Switzerland and Italy. Added to all this, there are some dials currently in the UK but made for the West Indies.
The BSS and Members
March 2010
Page 11
Page 11
A brief note about the dial maker Archibald Handasyde of Fishberrow, who made a dial for Inveresk church, Midlothian, in 1735. The piece notes he is credited with several other dials and would be worthy of further research.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2010
Page 21
Page 21
A collection of letters from readers. Topics include a simpler graphical method for using the John Marke altitude dial, a discussion on the nomenclature of mass dials, the 'Sun Position Compass', and the historical connection between clockmakers and dialmakers.
Dials: Mass Dials, Dials: Portable, Mathematics of Dialling, The BSS and Members
March 2010
Page 42
Page 42
An overview of the photographic archive of Noel Ta'Bois, an early sundial enthusiast. The archive contains around 1,500 slides of fixed dials from the 1980s, which form a valuable record in the Society's collection and have helped identify unrecorded dials.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2010
Page 25
Page 25
This entry provides the minutes of the British Sundial Society's 21st Annual General Meeting. It covers attendance, approval of previous minutes, and reports from council members, including the Secretary, Bulletin Editor, Registrar, Mass Dial Group, Advertising, Sundial Safaris, Treasurer, Biographical Projects, Membership, Sundial Trail Competition, Conference Organisation, Webmaster, and Sundial Design Competition. Officer elections and other business are also documented.
The BSS and Members
June 2010
Page 26
Page 26
This section presents the British Sundial Society's Statement of Financial Activities and Balance Sheet for the year ending 31 December 2009. It details income resources, expensed resources, net incoming resources, and fund balances.
The BSS and Members
June 2010
Page 31
Page 31
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's 21st annual conference, highlighting the positive weather and successful organisation by Patrick Powers. It details various talks and demonstrations, including stone carving and lettering by Ben Jones, sundials as aeolian harps by Allan Mills, unequal hour lines by Fred Sawyer, and mass dial prevalence by Chris Williams. The conference also featured a sundial tour and dinner.
The BSS and Members
September 2010
Page 29
Page 29
This article recounts the recovery and return of two sundials: a pedestal with carved navigational instruments, stolen from Myddelton House and later reunited with a replica dial plate; and an early Celtic sundial from Tywyn, moved inside its church.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2010
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial discusses the suggestion of including author photographs and short descriptions in Bulletin articles. It also mentions the absence of 'Guidelines for Contributors', and the delay of an article on Earth's orbital eccentricity due to illness.
The BSS and Members
December 2010
Page 31
Page 31
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's Newbury Meeting on 25 September 2010, attended by 36 members. It highlights short talks on scientific sundials in Britain, Essex dial restorations, and Devon/Cornwall dials. Exhibits included devices for determining sun direction, reproductions of historical dials, and modern designs.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2010
Page 45
Page 45
This report covers the fourth BSS Sundial Design Competition, which received 14 entries across restoration, professional, and amateur classes, though no junior entries. Graham Aldred won the Major Prize for his restoration of the Lyme Park dial. Other prizes were awarded for a south-facing vertical dial and highly commended entries for a sun/moon dial, a prototype noon mark dial, and a vertical dial using a 'super ellipse.'
Dials: Unusual, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2009
Page 1
Page 1
Robin M Catchpole was awarded the prize for the best article by a new author for his article ‘The Solar Pyramid’ published in the June 2008 edition. There were a variety of high-quality candidates. Both Russian members of the society have contributed articles to this bulletin.
The BSS and Members
June 2009
Page 1
Page 1
The mini-theme for this issue is sundials within the Tropics; articles by Malcolm Barnfield and Mike Cowham deal with a topic which we rarely think about but which is a good test for how well we really understand the apparent movement of the sun across the globe’s surface. The page numbering of this and subsequent bulletins will restart with each issue rather than being sequential within each volume. The 2008 Accounts will be printed with the September issue.
The BSS and Members
June 2009
Page 8
Page 8
A letter identifying the poet Anna Laetitia Barbauld as the source of an inscription, ‘Say not Good-night, but in some brighter clime Bid me Good-morning’, on a memorial sundial at Mawnan Smith, previously mentioned in the March 2009 Bulletin.
Mottoes, The BSS and Members
June 2009
Page 31
Page 31
A report on the society's 2008-9 photographic competition, announcing the winner, Mike Cowham, and runners-up. It details the judging process and criteria and showcases several of the winning and highly-rated entries, while also noting the competition will become biennial.
The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 1
Page 1
The Best New Bulletin Author Award 2008 could not be presented at the Conference so it was recently presented at the Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge, where the recipient, Robin Catchpole, works. The presentation consisted of a replica astrolabe, as well as a certificate.
The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 8
Page 8
A report on a British Sundial Society visit to Bramshill House, a Jacobean mansion in Hampshire. The article describes the tour of the house, which was the former National Police Staff College, and the various timepieces examined, including a noon mark, a horizontal dial, a stone polyhedron, and a vertical dial.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Noon Lines, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 15
Page 15
Features an early 20th-century postcard showing a sundial in Rémalard, Normandy, France. The postcard was used to guide a modern restoration of the dial. The article briefly describes the dial, its motto, and the author's visit to the Perche region, which is rich in sundials.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Mottoes, The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 21
Page 21
A detailed report on the 20th annual BSS conference. The article summarises the programme of talks, which covered topics such as early Norwegian dials, the prevalence of scratch dials, equant dials, and the Equation of Time. It also describes the conference outing to Holker Hall and Hawkshead, and other social events.
The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 25
Page 25
A query seeking help from readers to decipher a mysterious inscription on a vertical south dial from 1782, now in Keighley Museum. The dial was formerly at the Fleece Inn, Keighley, and the puzzling inscription reads: "C.G · 1 51 33·34·1450".
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 38
Page 38
Describes the introduction of a 'Conference Vote' for the BSS Photocompetition, allowing members to choose their favourite entries alongside the formal judging panel. The article details the voting method and presents the results, noting that the members' choice for first place mirrored the judges' decision.
The BSS and Members
September 2009
Page 40
Page 40
The official minutes of the society's 20th Annual General Meeting held in May 2009. The document includes reports from various council members on the year's activities, such as membership, publications, restoration projects, and the dial registers, as well as recording the election of officers for the next term.
The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 1
Page 1
Two articles describe dials which make use of the catenary curve while the themes of stolen dials, mass dials and new dials are continued. A ‘Happy Christmas’ and sunny winter solstice to all members!
The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 9
Page 9
This piece analyses a vintage postcard of the Butter Cross in Witney. By comparing the time shown on the clock with the local solar time on the sundial, and accounting for British Summer Time and the equation of time, the author deduces the exact date the photograph was taken.
Equation of Time, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 13
Page 13
A short report on a British Sundial Society members' visit to the Royal Greenwich Observatory. The group received a guided tour, viewed famous horological exhibits like the Harrison chronometers, and were given special access to handle rare and notable sundials from the museum's storage rooms.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 17
Page 17
This brief feature highlights a universal inclining dial by the London firm Thomas Harris & Son from a member's collection. The dial is noted as a genuine antique from the 19th-century firm of opticians, rather than a modern replica, and an appeal is made for other members to share their interesting dials.
Dials: Portable, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 23
Page 23
A summary of the autumn meeting of the British Sundial Society. The report covers the day's lectures on a variety of topics, including diallists John Twysden and Robert Cutbush, the creation of ceramic sundials, and Roman dials in Britain, as well as exhibits shared by members.
The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 33
Page 33
A light-hearted feature showing two sundial-themed cakes. One, with the NASS logo, was for dialmaker Tony Moss upon his retirement. The other was a wedding cake for BSS member, Andrew James, featuring an accurate horizontal dial on the top tier and other personal musical and travel motifs.
The BSS and Members
December 2009
Page 43
Page 43
A multi-authored, day-by-day account of the society's annual week-long tour, this year through East Anglia. The report details the many historical and modern dials visited in Suffolk, Norwich, Essex, and surrounding areas, providing a travelogue of the group's discoveries and activities.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2008
Page 1
Page 1
The award for the best paper by a new author in the 2007 Bulletin has been made to Stefano Barbolini, Guido Dresti, Frank King and Rosario Mosello for their paper ‘The Sundial in La Specola Museum, Florence’ (Bull. 19(i) pp.33-39). The prize, a certificate and a small replica portable dial, will be presented at a later date.
The BSS and Members
March 2008
Page 18
Page 18
Describes the design, creation, and dedication of a large horizontal sundial by Tony Moss, commemorating the 400th anniversary of the Jamestown settlement. The unique 'navette' shaped dial incorporates Anglo-American symbolism, funded by the Sawyer Dialling Prize and sponsors, and was installed at Turner Farm Park.
Dials: Horizontal, Sundial Design & Layout, Construction Projects, The BSS and Members
March 2008
Page 22
Page 22
A personal report on the 13th NASS Conference in McLean, Virginia, covering presentations on various sundial topics, a bus tour to significant dials like the Lyman Briggs Memorial Dial and the Gaithersburg Latitude Observatory, and the dedication of the Jamestown Commemorative Sundial. It also details the Sawyer Dialling Prize presentation and practical workshops.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Polar, The BSS and Members
June 2008
Page 67
Page 67
This entry reports on the presentation of the SotI 'Sundial Trail' Award first prize to Rosaleen Robertson for her 'Timaru sundial trail' in New Zealand. It also mentions the joint sponsorship of the 2008 competition by SotI and BSS, encouraging participation in creating sundial trails.
The BSS and Members
June 2008
Page 72
Page 72
This entry contains the minutes of the British Sundial Society's 19th Annual General Meeting, held on 30 March 2008. It covers the Chairman's opening remarks, apologies, approval of previous minutes, Council Members' reports and other society activities.
The BSS and Members
June 2008
Page 77
Page 77
This report summarises the 2008 BSS Annual Conference at Latimer, highlighting various talks including Piers Nicholson on Jantar Mantar, Chris Williams on scratch dial statistics, Fred Sawyer on Michnik's bifilar sundial, Celia James on James Richard's dial, Julian Lush on Armenian scallop dials, and John Davis on John Rowley's work.
Dials: Bifilar, Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 2008
Page 95
Page 95
This article reports on the 2007 BSS Photographic Competition, detailing the judging process, scoring criteria, and the results. John Davis's 'Ship's Time' won first place, with Mike Isaacs and John Lester as runners-up. It encourages members to participate in the upcoming 2008 competition.
The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 101
Page 101
This editorial discusses three articles on double horizontal dials, highlighting the ongoing discovery and reassessment of significant dials by BSS members. It also addresses the issue of stolen sundials and the Society's role in their recovery, encouraging readers to report suspicious finds. Feedback on the Bulletin is also requested from members.
The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 107
Page 107
This article recounts the theft and subsequent recovery of a brass horizontal sundial by George Adams Jnr from Belmont House. A BSS member, Andrew James, identified the stolen dial on a dealer's website, leading to its return. The piece highlights the crucial value of the BSS Register and members' expertise in recovering stolen historical dials.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 115
Page 115
This section presents a selection of entries from the 2007 Photo Competition, including titles such as 'Double Time,' 'Summer Solstice—Noon,' 'Red Sky in the Morning...,' 'Accidental Gnomon,' 'A Vintage Sundial,' and 'Marked by Time.'
The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 121
Page 121
This paper describes the 1833 sundial at Liverpool Road Station, Manchester, the world's oldest extant railway station. It details the brass dial's features, its historical significance in railway timekeeping disputes, and its role as a public relations tool. The original dial is now in a museum, replaced by a 'dummy' dial on site.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 141
Page 141
Tony Wood writes about a porcelain dial from 1766 at the Royal Worcester Porcelain Museum, describing its detailed delineation. Jill Wilson responds to Chris Williams' mass dial article, noting a correlation between dial distribution and geology, and suggesting further research into building materials and church histories for a complete picture of dial loss.
Dials: Mass Dials, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2008
Page 142
Page 142
This section presents the British Sundial Society's income and expenditure statement for 2007. It details totals for subscriptions, events, sales, donations, and financial interest against expenses for the Bulletin, publications, officers, and events. The section also includes notes on specific items, fund balances, and general accounting practices.
The BSS and Members
December 2008
Page 153
Page 153
The editorial introduces the issue's new, more colourful appearance due to printing technology advancements, aiming for higher quality at low cost. It also mentions a pocket-sized card with the Equation of Time included and welcomes contributions for the photographic competition.
The BSS and Members
December 2008
Page 157
Page 157
A report on the BSS Newbury meeting on 27 September 2008, detailing talks on stainless steel sundials, polar dials, dynamic sundial design using calculators, and 3-D modelling for overshadowing. It also covers a survey of early horizontal dials in Flintshire, exhibits, and presentations on paper sundials and dials in Mexico and the southern hemisphere.
Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Polar, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2008
Page 169
Page 169
A light-hearted alphabetical list of terms and concepts related to sundials and dialling. It covers various aspects from Apparent time to Zodiac, including types of dials, mathematical concepts, and references to the British Sundial Society and its members.
How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
December 2008
Page 178
Page 178
A UK visitor's account of the 14th NASS Conference in St Louis, covering the coach tour to various sundial sites like the Jefferson Barracks and Missouri Botanical Gardens, presentations on topics such as digital wall dials and the equation of time, and the distribution of dialling software. It notes the smaller attendance compared to BSS meetings but high standard of events.
Historical Dials, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2008
Page 193
Page 193
A report on the BSS Sundial Safari to the Alsace region of France, detailing visits to various towns and villages. It describes numerous sundials encountered, including those at Strasbourg Cathedral, Soultz, Guebwiller, St-Marc convent, Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Bergheim, Mont Ste-Odile (featuring a polyhedral dial), and Freiburg (Germany), as well as the Kirschgarten Museum in Basel.
Dials: Vertical, Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2007
Page 1
Page 1
This editorial announces the winner of the first BSS New Author Award, Geoffrey Lane, for his paper 'Glass Sundials of 17th Century London'. It also mentions the runners-up and encourages members to contribute to the Bulletin. It notes the absence of colour pages in this issue due to unforeseen circumstances, with a double dose planned for the next.
The BSS and Members
March 2007
Page 32
Page 32
This note announces that sundial-based work, developed by BSS member Peter Ransom, is making a comeback in Key Stage 3 mathematics in schools through the DfES Bowland Initiative. It hopes this will increase interest in sundial making and BSS membership.
The BSS and Members
March 2007
Page 45
Page 45
Patrick Powers reviews the 'Catalogue of the Fixed Dials of Austria – 2006 (3rd edition),' edited by Karl Schwazinger. The review highlights the catalogue's comprehensive coverage of over 3500 dials, its German language, and the included CD-ROM version with HTML-based content and PDF explanations.
Book Reviews, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 49
Page 49
This editorial introduces the issue with a stained glass theme, highlights the Photographic Competition, mentions new series on astrolabes and professional dial makers, and thanks organisers of the successful Cambridge conference.
The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 56
Page 56
This report details the 2006 British Sundial Society Photographic Competition, noting a record entry, high standards, and the judging criteria. It announces Paul Shaw as the overall winner and Ian Butson and David Hawker as second and third prize recipients respectively, also commending seven other photographs.
The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 58
Page 58
This entry provides the minutes from the British Sundial Society's 18th Annual General Meeting held on 15 April 2007 in Cambridge. It covers opening remarks, apologies, approval of previous minutes, and reports from various Council members on Society activities, membership, finances, and future plans.
The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 62
Page 62
This section presents the British Sundial Society's financial accounts for 2006, detailing income and expenditure. It shows an increase in net income, explains the accounting basis, and includes auditor's comments on fund management and financial clarity.
The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 63
Page 63
This article recounts the discovery of an unrecorded horizontal sundial at Chatsworth House, initially prompted by a film, and reveals that BSS Chairman Chris Daniel had photographed it 30 years prior but not recorded it. It highlights the importance of Peter Baxandall's observation.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2007
Page 86
Page 86
This report summarises the 2007 British Sundial Society Annual Conference in Cambridge. It highlights talks on calendar history, the Equation of Time, analemmatic sundials, astrolabes, and beehive sundialling. It also covers walking tours of Cambridge dials, including Pembroke and Queens' Colleges, and the Andrew Somerville Memorial Lecture on calendar accuracy.
Dials: Astrolabe, Historical Dials, How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
September 2007
Page 97
Page 97
The editorial discusses the added interest and design lift that declination lines bring to sundials, noting that this issue features two papers offering different, simpler methods for laying them out, encouraging designers to use them more. It also announces a new semi-regular feature on 'New Dials', inviting contributions from professional and amateur makers.
The BSS and Members
September 2007
Page 104
Page 104
This obituary commemorates Edward Martin (1925-2007), founder of the British Sundial Society's Mass Dial Group. It highlights his pioneering work in collecting and computerising information on mass and Saxon dials, leading to a National Register. Martin's vision and enthusiasm for recording dials nationwide are praised as a significant legacy to the Society.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2007
Page 111
Page 111
This section features three letters: Robert Scott Simon identifies a dial he made. John Wall comments on a bizarre sundial plot in a TV series, where a pivoted gnomon reveals gold. Graham Aldred discusses corrosion on sundial plates and P&G heliochronometers, suggesting material substitutions and their implications.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
September 2007
Page 135
Page 135
This section presents a batch of unplaced entries from the 2006 BSS Photographic Competition, highlighting the high quality of submissions. It includes titles and photographers for various sundial images, encouraging members to submit more photos for next year's competition.
The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 145
Page 145
This editorial addresses the sad news of Margaret Stanier's passing, noting her contributions as a former Bulletin Editor and her influence on the sundialling community. It also mentions the inclusion of a solar and lunar data card with the issue and invites photographers to submit suitable cover pictures.
The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 151
Page 151
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's Newbury meeting, which began with a tribute to the late Dr. Margaret Stanier. Presentations included stained-glass sundials, mounting a vertical sundial with a TV bracket, mathematical proofs for hour lines, a schools programme for dialling, universal equinoctial ring dials, dipleidoscopes, dials with vertical gnomons, and hemispherical dials.
Dialling Tools, How Sundials Work, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 173
Page 173
This section contains various letters from readers. Frans W. Maes discusses Lambert circles and seasonal markers on analemmatic sundials. Roger Bailey provides corrections and recommendations for seasonal markers. Frank King confirms a relationship for seasonal marker distance. Ken Head replies to Maes and Bailey. John Lester solves the mystery of a partial sundial motto. Malcolm Barnfield describes the making of a noon cannon sundial.
Dials: Analemmatic, Sundial Design & Layout, DIY Sundial Projects, The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 190
Page 190
This note introduces Hassaan Ghazali from Lahore, Pakistan, a lawyer who is interested in sundials and plans to form a kindred society in Pakistan. It mentions his visit to the UK where he met Christopher Daniel and visited the National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory sundials. The British Sundial Society hopes he will become a member.
The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 191
Page 191
This obituary commemorates Margaret Wilson Stanier (1919-2007), a distinguished physiologist and former Editor of the British Sundial Society Bulletin. It highlights her academic career at Oxford, Makerere College, and Cambridge, her scientific publications, her involvement with the Newnham College observatory, and her various hobbies including bell-ringing and botanical interests. It emphasizes her significant contributions to gnomonics, joining the BSS in 1990, editing the Bulletin with rigor, and writing seminal monographs on Oxford and Cambridge dials.
The BSS and Members
December 2007
Page 192
Page 192
This article calls for a reassessment of scratch (mass) dials, noting the surprising lack of interest despite thousands surviving across Europe. The author, who stumbled upon them while researching local history, is now analyzing the BSS Mass Dial Group's extensive database using mathematical and statistical methods to gain new insights into their original prevalence, use, appearance, evolution, and eventual fate.
Mathematics of Dialling, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members, Dials: Mass Dials
June 2006
Page 54
Page 54
This report details the results of the 2005 British Sundial Society Photographic Competition, highlighting the winners, runners-up, and highly commended entries. It includes judges' comments, discusses criteria like artistic merit and overall impression, and announces plans for the 2006 competition.
The BSS and Members
June 2006
Page 60
Page 60
This section provides the British Sundial Society's income and expenditure report for the year 2005. It details financial figures for subscriptions, gift aid, publications, events, sales, interest, and various expenses, along with notes explaining the figures and an auditor's comments on the accounts' clarity and accuracy.
The BSS and Members
December 2006
Page 145
Page 145
The editorial summarises the results of a Readership Survey, noting the introduction of solar ephemeris data and ongoing work for new articles. It highlights the importance of BSS members identifying and proposing restoration for old sundials and draws attention to the BSS Grants Policy.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
December 2006
Page 164
Page 164
Jill Wilson reports on a successful weekend course on 'Understanding Sundials' at Farncombe Estate. The curriculum covered the history of dialling, fundamental theory, design principles, practical delineation using various tools, and the practicalities of installing dials, with a focus on wall declinations. Attendees, from beginners to experienced diallists, gained new insights and appreciation for sundials.
How Sundials Work, Mathematics of Dialling, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
December 2006
Page 180
Page 180
This multi-author report details the British Sundial Society's visit to Nürnberg, exploring historical sundials on sites like St Lawrence church (1502), the Fembo House, and various multi-faced dials in Rothenberg. The trip also included visits to St Rochus Cemetery, where gravestones of famous dial makers feature classical diptych dials.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Portable, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2005
Page 23
Page 23
Narrates the British Sundial Society’s 2004 tour of Italy, detailing visits to Rome, Florence and Ravenna. Highlights significant sundials and meridian installations, including the Palazzo Spada ceiling dial, Pantheon meridian, San Petronio line, the La Meridiana villa and private designs. Describes historical context, local hosts, and field observations of classical gnomonic art.
The BSS and Members
March 2005
Page 28
Page 28
Celebratory poem in the style of Lord Macaulay's "Horatius" honouring David Young’s organisational role in the Society’s Italian sundial tour. Names participants, guides and hosts, and recounts itinerary highlights in rhyming verse, blending humour and historical references to classical and modern sundials encountered on the journey.
The BSS and Members
March 2005
Page 33
Page 33
Announces the British Sundial Society’s affiliation with the Royal Astronomical Society. Outlines mutual benefits including library access, journal subscriptions, use of Burlington House facilities, membership collaborations and participation in RAS meetings. Emphasises enhanced status and shared resources for astronomical research and sundial study.
The BSS and Members
June 2005
Page 77
Page 77
Suggestion of a "Top 10" of sundials in Wiltshire, highlighting their variety, locations, and historical interest.
The BSS and Members
June 2005
Page 78
Page 78
Announcement and results of the BSS photographic competition, showcasing notable sundial photography entries.
The BSS and Members
June 2005
Page 81
Page 81
Report on the BSS Annual Conference held at Royal Holloway College. Summarises lectures, visits, and activities from the event.
The BSS and Members
September 2005
Page 90
Page 90
A message from the editor introducing John Davis as the new Assistant Editor and encouraging members to submit their contributions to the bulletin. It also mentions the new roles of other members of the council.
The BSS and Members
September 2005
Page 109
Page 109
This article details the 2005 British Sundial Society Open Award Scheme, outlining the judging criteria and listing the winners and their sundial projects. It describes the winning entries, which include a large vertical dial, a portable dial, and a set of equinoxial and solsticial dials.
The BSS and Members
December 2005
Page 156
Page 156
This report details the author's trip to the North American Sundial Society (NASS) conference in Chicago, August 2005. It covers tourist activities in the city, workshops held, the formal registration, meeting other sundial enthusiasts, and the bus tour to see local sundials, including the DuPage County Veterans’ Memorial Dial and the Henry Moore sundial.
The BSS and Members
December 2005
Page 168
Page 168
This report describes the BSS Newbury meeting on September 24, 2005, attended by 48 enthusiasts. The program included talks on 17th-century stained-glass sundial maker Baptist Sutton, spreadsheets and CAD for dial setting, museum surveys, and origami equatorial sundials. Exhibits featured sunspot observations, Mike Cowham's new book, high-quality sundial work, and intricate Meccano mechanisms.
The BSS and Members
March 2004
Page 3
Page 3
This article announces Sir Mark Lennox-Boyd as the new Patron of the British Sundial Society, succeeding the late Earl of Perth. It details Sir Mark's background, including his education, parliamentary career, and long-standing interest in sundials, noting his design achievements like the Holker Hall scaphe sundial. His diverse interests and expertise are presented as qualifications for this role.
The BSS and Members
March 2004
Page 31
Page 31
This editorial note covers various topics including an upcoming seminar on "Venus Observed," apologies for errors in the previous December Bulletin, and an announcement about a new booklet on "Guernsey Sundials" by David and Dorothy LeConte. It also mentions the accessibility of this booklet at the BSS Annual Conference.
Book Reviews, The BSS and Members
March 2004
Page 36
Page 36
This report describes a successful British Sundial Society display at a Fair in Tynemouth's Victorian railway station. The BSS stall showcased various dials, captivating visitors and generating interest, ultimately being remarked upon for overshadowing the station's newly restored clock, symbolising the enduring appeal of sundials.
The BSS and Members
June 2004
Page 46
Page 46
Opening commentary introducing the issue, summarising notable society events and articles, and reflecting on the Oxford AGM and its sundial displays.
The BSS and Members
June 2004
Page 73
Page 73
Official minutes from the 2004 AGM held at St Anne’s College, Oxford, including officer reports, motions, and society business.
The BSS and Members
June 2004
Page 80
Page 80
Summary of the society’s 15th anniversary conference in Oxford, including lectures, workshops, and site visits.
The BSS and Members
June 2004
Page 85
Page 85
Review of a sundial-related video, discussing its content, production quality, and usefulness.
The BSS and Members
September 2004
Page 100
Page 100
Selections from the BSS Register highlighting notable dials (examples from Suffolk), with location, brief technical notes and historical context for each featured entry.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2004
Page 118
Page 118
Report of a ceremonial unveiling of a new equatorial sundial: description of the dial type, event context and public/promotional aspects of the installation.
Dials: Equatorial, The BSS and Members
December 2004
Page 152
Page 152
Report from the 10th NASS conference (Tenafly, NJ). Summarises presentations and demonstrations on sundial education, laser trigon techniques, CAD/3D modelling for dial manufacture, archaeological finds, spiral equatorial and portable dials, and highlights from delegates and exhibits.
The BSS and Members
December 2004
Page 156
Page 156
December 2004
Page 173
Page 173
Report on the Newbury 2004 meeting: activities, practical demonstrations and visits carried out despite adverse weather, with notes on attendance, exhibits and plans for future Newbury meetings.
The BSS and Members
March 2003
Page 15
Page 15
A selection of letters from members discussing the Crowan dial, mass dials, lines of coincidence, and leaded-in gnomons.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2003
Page 20
Page 20
Continuation of the society’s early history, covering administrative developments from June 1990 to April 1991, including Andrew Somerville’s death and transition to new leadership.
The BSS and Members
March 2003
Page 28
Page 28
Announcements, corrections, and editorial notes including photos, upcoming meetings, and publishing logistics.
The BSS and Members
March 2003
Page 43
Page 43
Obituary for the Society’s Patron, acknowledging his contributions to the BSS and interest in sundials.
The BSS and Members
June 2003
Page 73
Page 73
This note from the chairman thanks Dr. John Lester for crafting and presenting a gavel to the Society. It describes the gavel's construction from cherry and padauk woods and its clever design.
The BSS and Members
June 2003
Page 76
Page 76
A summary of the British Sundial Society's Annual Conference at Yarnfield. The report covers various talks and workshops, including one on electrochemical hazards to sundials, a presentation on a pilgrim route, and one on unusual sundial designs.
The BSS and Members
June 2003
Page 78
Page 78
The official minutes from the 14th Annual General Meeting of the British Sundial Society. It covers reports from council members and specialists, election of officers, and other society business.
The BSS and Members
September 2003
Page 104
Page 104
This note from the editor discusses the British Sundial Society's five-yearly awards for the design, construction, and restoration of sundials. It encourages professionals, amateurs, and young people to apply, and also mentions a request for reciprocal arrangements with overseas sundial societies to exchange journals.
The BSS and Members
September 2003
Page 110
Page 110
A collection of letters from readers. Topics include a thank you for information on sundial makers for the 'Biographical Index of British Sundial Makers,' and some pub dial sightings.
The BSS and Members
December 2003
Page 149
Page 149
An account of the 2003 Newbury meeting, covering talks, exhibits, musical interlude, and member sundial projects, including declination finding, software modelling, and new dial types.
The BSS and Members
December 2003
Page 152
Page 152
Short obituary for Tony Baigent, acknowledging his contribution to sundial education and outreach.
The BSS and Members
December 2003
Page 162
Page 162
Contributions from members on a variety of sundial-related topics, offering observations, queries, and follow-ups.
The BSS and Members
December 2003
Page 165
Page 165
Travel report from the BSS Cornwall tour, describing dials visited, local history, scenic highlights, and member experiences.
The BSS and Members
March 2002
Page 3
Page 3
Tribute to Rene Rohr, highlighting his contributions to sundial design, literature, and his role in the BSS.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
March 2002
Page 28
Page 28
Second part of a historical account of the BSS's origins, early figures, and development as an organisation.
The BSS and Members
June 2002
Page 61
Page 61
June 2002
Page 62
Page 62
A report on the BSS exhibition at the RAS President’s Reception, including participation and interest in sundials.
The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 93
Page 93
A report on the 2002 BSS annual conference, summarising talks, excursions, and events including presentations by international members and sundial exhibitions.
The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 95
Page 95
Official record of the 2002 AGM including reports from officers and specialists, covering projects, events, finances, and future plans.
The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 101
Page 101
Summary of the meeting regarding adoption of a new Society constitution, including approval process and background.
The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 104
Page 104
Travelogue of the BSS tour of Austria led by Walter Hofmann, visiting monasteries, public dials, and craftspeople; rich in descriptions of painted and sculptural dials.
Dials: Portable, Dials: Unusual, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 115
Page 115
An essay reflecting on the evolution of sundial making and the Society's activities during the 20th century, highlighting significant developments and personalities.
Dials: Bifilar, Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Heliochronometer, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
September 2002
Page 132
Page 132
Supplemental photos from the Austria 2002 sundial tour, complementing the earlier article by Frank Evans.
Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
December 2002
Page 144
Page 144
Humorous yet insightful reflection on the fallibility of domestic clocks versus the dependability of sundials, ending with a challenge to design a regulating system.
The BSS and Members
December 2002
Page 157
Page 157
Report on the BSS Newbury meeting with exhibition and presentations, featuring inventive sundials including artistic and portable models.
The BSS and Members
March 2001
Page 22
Page 22
This report details the Newbury 2000 event, a British Sundial Society gathering showcasing various sundial exhibits. Highlights include John Moir's rainbow and bifilar dials, a cycloidal dial, and Piers Nicholson's prototype horizontal dial with accurate alignment features. Tony Wood presented "3 Cheap and Dials" and updated on the mass dial register. Peter Ransom displayed sundial-themed items, and David Young showed eclipse phenomena. The event concluded with an award for the Make a Sundial competition.
The BSS and Members
March 2001
Page 42
Page 42
This article explores the "Universal Equinoctial" sundial, highlighting its significance as the emblem of the British Sundial Society. It discusses the historical context and design principles of this type of sundial, explaining its functionality and why it was chosen to represent the BSS.
Dials: Equatorial, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
March 2001
Page 44
Page 44
This obituary commemorates the life and contributions of Peter Lamont, a member of the British Sundial Society.
The BSS and Members
June 2001
Page 58
Page 58
David Young, a founding member, provides a personal account of the British Sundial Society's formation and early years. He traces the resurgence of interest in sundials, early discussions among key figures like Christopher Daniel and Andrew Somerville, and the eventual decision to form an independent society, detailing the initial planning and membership growth.
The BSS and Members
September 2001
Page 99
Page 99
A report on the well-attended BSS conference in York. Topics included Leicester"s Millennium Time Trail, the discovery of early wooden dials in Ipswich, Samuel Foster's graphical dialling techniques, and the restoration of astrolabes and sundials at Oxford's Museum of the History of Science. Tours of local sundials, an auction, and discussions on unusual dials and polar dial design were also featured.
The BSS and Members
December 2001
Page 147
Page 147
This article reports on the 2001 Wales Sundial Safari, detailing the examination of various sundials across the region. Highlights include a rare bridge sundial, historical church dials, a heliochronometer, and an ancient Celtic stele dial. The tour also featured a moon dial, various horizontal and vertical designs, and complex multi-component dials like the 1595 Marrington Hall example, showcasing Wales's diverse gnomonic heritage.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
December 2001
Page 156
Page 156
This report covers the well-attended BSS meeting at Newbury. Presentations included astronomy software, 'Spot-on-Sundial' development, and a 'Sundial Seekers Companion' kit. Updates were given on dial restoration. Exhibitions showcased diverse designs, including a rainbow dial, a hemispherical dial made from a bird feeder, and an electronic biscuit box sundial. Various other dials, a nocturnal, and calendars were also displayed.
Dials: Unusual, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
February 2000
Page 19
Page 19
Report of a BSS group meeting to document mass dials at churches in three counties, including visits and findings.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
February 2000
Page 42
Page 42
Describes a group visit to the noon-mark sundial at Farnborough. Designed by Douglas Bateman, the dial is set out on a central glass window in the entrance hall of the Cody Building and shows local apparent noon, mean time noon, and the date.
The BSS and Members, Dials: Noon Lines
February 2000
Page 44
Page 44
Personal narrative of viewing the 1999 total eclipse in Bulgaria, with observations and reflections.
The BSS and Members
February 2000
Page 45
Page 45
Report on the North American Sundial Society conference, with discussions on topics presented.
The BSS and Members
February 2000
Page 47
Page 47
June 2000
Page 76
Page 76
Explores the background and family history of Mrs. Gatty, author of the classic sundial book, focusing on her early influences.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2000
Page 81
Page 81
June 2000
Page 86
Page 86
Summary of a lecture by Dr Frank King covering sundials in Cambridge, both historic and recent.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
June 2000
Page 90
Page 90
A personal account of photographing the 1999 eclipse, with technical and observational notes.
The BSS and Members
October 2000
Page 120
Page 120
Report on the 11th BSS Annual Conference, with summaries of lectures, site visits, exhibitions, and society updates.
The BSS and Members
October 2000
Page 121
Page 121
Minutes of the AGM held at the Cirencester conference, including officer changes and society business.
The BSS and Members
October 2000
Page 125
Page 125
Showcase of sundials commissioned or constructed to commemorate the millennium year.
Dials: Analemmatic, Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Vertical, The BSS and Members
October 2000
Page 129
Page 129
Trip report on a wet BSS expedition to Scotland documenting sundials, including locations, dial types, and travel experiences.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
October 2000
Page 137
Page 137
Photos and summaries of sundials submitted to or winning BSS awards in 2000.
Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
February 1999
Page 2
Page 2
This editorial mentions that this issue celebrates the British Sundial Society's tenth anniversary with a colourful display of sundial photographs included in the centre pages, and contributions from early members reflecting on their reasons for joining. It also clarifies the new volume and page numbering system for the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
February 1999
Page 16
Page 16
This section compiles responses from early BSS members, including T.B. Palmer, P.D. Briggs, and C.D. Lack, reflecting on their initial motivations for joining and their continued enjoyment of the Society's Bulletin, despite personal challenges or preferences for theoretical over practical involvement.
The BSS and Members
February 1999
Page 33
Page 33
This section provides updates including the venue for the 1999 Newbury BSS Meeting, the current viewing location of D.G. Rossetti's 'Beata Beatrix' painting, clarifications on 'Italian' hours and a problematic dial from a previous issue, and an apology for a cover photo misattribution.
The BSS and Members
February 1999
Page 33
Page 33
This section contains diverse reader correspondence, including a tribute to Charles Aked, discussions on the Equation of Time and Bernhardt dials, explanations of the Lluc sundial in Mallorca, a comparison of Eureka compass cards, reflections on restoration, and a submission on 'Tipple Times'.
Dials: Unusual, Equation of Time, Dialling Tools, The BSS and Members
June 1999
Page 54
Page 54
Introduces the June 1999 issue of the BSS Bulletin, highlighting a mix of historical, current, and future-oriented articles. It mentions past objects like Saxon dials and the Nottingham Meridian Dial, present-day topics such as making a sundial from a satellite dish, and future-looking content like 'Sundials on the Internet' and a restored wall dial. The editor particularly enjoyed 'The Scaphe of Carthage'.
The BSS and Members
June 1999
Page 81
Page 81
Includes various reader contributions. M. Arnaldi discusses the Benedictine Rule and Anglo-Saxon liturgy regarding monastic prayer times. A.O. Wood questions the commonality of Saxon dial designs and suggests a square dial at Stowell Church is Saxon. James Richard reflects on his long-standing interest in sundials and the BSS. J.P. Lester corrects an error in 'King's England' about a sundial at St. Mary's, Radcliffe. K.H. Head offers information on a 'repeating caliper' and seeks an internationally agreed system for gnomonic symbols. Alan Smith clarifies details of a Memento Mori sundial on a tombstone.
The BSS and Members
June 1999
Page 82
Page 82
This section covers various announcements and corrections. It invites members to a Mass Dial Safari in the East Midlands. It includes corrections for photograph attributions and orientations in previous BSS Bulletins. It also provides corrected attributions for the cat dial memorial to Noel Ta Bois and the Hitchin Museum dial, and announces British Museum events related to the total eclipse.
The BSS and Members
June 1999
Page 91
Page 91
This report chronicles the growth and impact of the "Sundials on the Internet" website (www.sundials.co.uk) over its first three years, sponsored by the BSS and NASS. It details the site's rapid growth in page views, content expansion, and design evolution. The article highlights the site's educational contribution, especially through its projects page for schoolchildren, and outlines future objectives like language translations and new sundial trails.
The BSS and Members
June 1999
Page 99
Page 99
This tribute remembers Lieut. Commander Richard "Dick" Andrewes, a BSS member known for his wartime naval service, mathematical degree, and enthusiasm for dialling. He designed a unique dial for his home and an analemmatic dial for a conservation centre. He is particularly remembered for delineating a scaphe dial at the Horniman Museum, ingeniously overcoming its organic shape by using a marble to find the bowl's lowest point.
Dials: Analemmatic, Dials: Scaphe, The BSS and Members
October 1999
Page 128
Page 128
Features several reader contributions. A.F. Baigent suggests creating a 'Diallers' Dictionary' for standardising gnomonic terms. John Singleton proposes a shortcut method for determining equinox and solstice tracks for reclining/declining dials. Maurice Cohen discusses misplaced sundials at National Trust properties like Anglesey Abbey, highlighting variations in local management's care. Gordon E Taylor comments on symbol standardisation in gnomonics, advocating for an international committee to address confusion in terms like 'declination' and 'azimuth'.
The BSS and Members
October 1999
Page 131
Page 131
This section announces changes in handling BSS material sales and provides contact information for ordering back issues, ties, and lapel badges. It also invites members to report new, old, or updated fixed and mass dials to the registrars to help chronicle their condition. Additionally, it announces a GCSE Astronomy Course at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, offering students practical experience with telescopes and preparation for the examination.
The BSS and Members
October 1999
Page 133
Page 133
This report details the Newbury Meeting, featuring talks on French dials with carved figures, gnomonic markings on church walls, and an experiment recreating Eratosthenes' Earth diameter measurement. Michael Maltin demonstrated Earth's orbital eccentricity and movement. Peter Meecham described his 'Tempus Fugit' balloon. Exhibitions included a drinks sundial, NASS double horizontal dial, crested china sundials, and Andrew James' Pringles cylinder shepherd's dial. The meeting also involved laying out a meridian line and a birthday cake celebration for the BSS.
The BSS and Members
October 1999
Page 137
Page 137
This report details the BSS's successful Tenth Anniversary Conference at Dunchurch Lodge. Lectures covered calendar history, a remote reading sundial invention, and the discovery of a lost stained glass sundial. Allan Mills surveyed Greek and Roman scaphe dials. Doug Bateman guided a tour of Nottingham Subscription Library's Noon Line. Group meetings addressed portable dials, mass dials, and wall declination. The conference concluded with an auction, a satellite dish sundial demonstration, an eclipse lecture, and the election of new officials.
The BSS and Members
October 1999
Page 142
Page 142
This report details a BSS Northumbrian Sundial Meeting, highlighting visits to Anglo-Saxon dials at Escomb, Dalton-le-Dale, and Pittington, noting the latter's poor condition. The group also saw dials by William Emmerson and C. Hunter, a modern 20-foot sundial by Tony Moss in Silverlink Parks, and the Stephenson Dial at Killingworth. The meeting concluded with a visit to the Keelman's Hospital and a restored shipyard sundial at the Trinity Maritime Centre, along with scratch dials at Bothal, which are rapidly deteriorating.
The BSS and Members
February 1998
Page 2
Page 2
The editor reflects on balancing forward-looking dial design with historical studies, noting readers’ diverse interests and reaffirming a policy that each issue should include something for everybody.
The BSS and Members
February 1998
Page 39
Page 39
Correspondence from members on recent articles, dial sightings, methods and queries, adding corrections, experience and requests for opinions.
The BSS and Members
February 1998
Page 42
Page 42
Short editorial notices and clarifications, including corrections, follow-ups and production notes.
The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 2
Page 2
This article discusses the different approaches to problems of conservation and restoration of sundials in Britain and continental Europe. It also touches on the upcoming tenth anniversary of the British Sundial Society and suggests celebrating with colour photographs in the Bulletin.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 18
Page 18
This article details the author's decades-long work in compiling extensive bibliographies on gnomonics, inspired by an earlier work on horology. It discusses the challenges of the project, including its scope and arrangement, and mentions collaboration with other researchers.
The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 33
Page 33
This announcement outlines the new categories for the BSS awards for sundials. It details the classes for professional, amateur, restoration, and junior dials, with an emphasis on the honour of the award itself.
Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 43
Page 43
This section announces the British Sundial Society's decision to modify the Bulletin's numbering system starting in 1999 to simplify references. It also provides an update on the availability and details of the 'International Bibliography of Gnomonics' compiled by C.K. Aked and N. Severino, which is offered on disk.
The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 45
Page 45
This obituary commemorates Professor Philip Adams, a highly esteemed member of the British Sundial Society, who passed away on 1 November 1997. It highlights his significant intellectual and social contributions to the Society, including his engaging lectures and meticulously crafted models, and his role in organising a sundial tour.
The BSS and Members
June 1998
Page 46
Page 46
Summarises the BSS Conference held in Dunchurch Lodge. It mentions lectures on topics such as the origins of two manor house dials, Altitude Dials, and a tour of German dials.
The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 2
Page 2
This editorial discusses the variety of sundials in this issue for different age groups and periods, from ancient to ultra-modern. It encourages submissions for the BSS Awards Scheme 2000 and highlights Sarah Symons' lecture on Egyptian Shadow Clocks and an obituary for founding member Charles Aked.
The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 6
Page 6
Reports on the Mass Dial group's weekend hunt in East Anglia, organised by Dr. John Davis. Members explored churches in Norfolk and Suffolk, locating 155 dials on 109 churches, despite challenges like rain and overgrown churchyards. The report also touches upon local architecture, like round towers, and the gradual disappearance of older dials.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 9
Page 9
This article outlines the British Sundial Society's policy on restoration and conservation of sundials. It defines terms like restoration, conservation, and replacement, and specifies BSS involvement, advising on accurate restoration while avoiding legal liability. The policy discourages restoration of Saxon or Mass Dials, prioritising their conservation and detailed recording.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 10
Page 10
This report summarises the BSS Newbury meeting on the eve of the Summer Solstice. It covers talks on Hampshire sundials, raised horizontal dials, astro-compass conversions, and a sun compass. The event also featured an exhibition of various sundials and computer programs, highlighting members' ingenuity and the collaborative spirit of the society.
DIY Sundial Projects, Dialling Tools, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 18
Page 18
This obituary pays tribute to Charles Kenneth Aked, a principal 'founding father' and first editor of the British Sundial Society's Bulletin, who passed away on 22 April 1998. It details his diverse career in engineering and horology, his extensive gnomonic bibliographies, and his significant contributions to the BSS, highlighting his dedication and personality.
The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 21
Page 21
This section invites Italian-speaking members to review a new journal, discusses the terminology of 'Italian' and 'Italic' hours, mentions the publication of Allan Mills' lecture on Altitude Dials, and announces a planned group tour to the UK for the BSS 10th Anniversary in 1999.
The BSS and Members
October 1998
Page 24
Page 24
This section features a collection of correspondence from readers covering diverse topics. These include the origin of Bernhardt Dials, methods for finding the meridian, updates on Newbury BSS meetings, a problematic sundial in Lluc, Mallorca, discussions on the 'Eureka' credit card compass, and inquiries about spherical and 'problematic' Italian dials.
Dialling Tools, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
January 1997
Page 1
Page 1
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
January 1997
Page 49
Page 49
Correspondence from readers discussing previous articles, sharing observations, and posing questions related to sundials.
The BSS and Members
January 1997
Page 52
Page 52
A section of exchanges, comments, and brief notes between members and editors on topics of sundial interest.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 1
Page 1
A reflective farewell from the long-serving Honorary Editor, recounting the history and growth of the Bulletin, the challenges and pleasures of editing, and expressing gratitude to contributors while bidding farewell to the role.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 7
Page 7
A tribute to George Higgs, describing the creation and installation of a commemorative engraved glass window in Kirkcudbright’s Tollbooth Art Centre, incorporating sundial designs he worked on during his lifetime.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 8
Page 8
A detailed account of a week-long tour of Northern Ireland by BSS members, visiting historic and modern sundials, gardens, cathedrals, and museums, highlighting the camaraderie and variety of dial-related experiences.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 38
Page 38
A profile of contemporary diallist Joanna Migdal, outlining her career, notable works, and artistic approach to sundial creation.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 54
Page 54
A brief announcement noting the change in editorial leadership for the Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
April 1997
Page 57
Page 57
A selection of letters from readers offering observations, corrections, and commentary on previous Bulletin articles.
The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 1
Page 1
A message from the new editor introducing himself and his aims for the bulletin, as well as a tribute to the retiring editor Charles Aked. It notes the cosmopolitan nature of the contributions and encourages members to submit snippets about interesting sundials.
The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 29
Page 29
July 1997
Page 32
Page 32
The author recounts giving a speech about sundials at the Royal Astronomical Society Club. He presents a witty poem that he wrote in response to a verse by Hilaire Belloc that claimed watches are better than sundials. The poem highlights the various functions and advantages of sundials.
The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 33
Page 33
A tribute to Charles K. Aked, a founding member and the first editor of the British Sundial Society Bulletin. The article details his career as a scientist, his contributions to horology and dialling, and his crucial role in establishing the BSS.
The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 38
Page 38
Report on a commemorative sundial project dedicated to James Taylor, a former BSS member, including design and symbolism.
Construction Projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 52
Page 52
Report on a successful one-day meeting of the BSS in Newbury, with talks, exhibitions, discussion and socialising
The BSS and Members
July 1997
Page 54
Page 54
A summary of the British Sundial Society's conference in Penrith. It describes various lectures and events, including a talk on a restored sundial, a discussion of Fred Sawyer's Asteroid Dial, and a presentation on the Windsor dial.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 2
Page 2
This October issue of the Bulletin contains articles on sundials, both ancient (Ireland) and modern (a wooden cross-dial), covering topics such as construction, inaccuracies, cardboard cutouts (H-Dial, Christmas Cards, Sun Calendar), and encounters with dials in art (Rossetti) and real life (Turnbull Sundial). It includes contributions from three European countries and will soon feature one from the Southern Hemisphere.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 26
Page 26
Report on a "Green Day" event in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where British Sundial Society members set up a display to promote sundialling. Despite poor weather, they engaged with visitors, including the Lady Lord Mayor, and provided information about sundials. The author notes that while it may not have significantly advanced "Green Issues or the cause of Sundialling," it created a pleasant opportunity for members to discuss dials.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 38
Page 38
Announces a Sackler Research Fellowship for astronomy, horology, hydrography, and navigational instruments. It also mentions London's first indoor sundial, which uses a moving artificial light, and requests information for two unpublished items: 'Four 19th century meridian lines in Rome' and a review of a catalogue of fixed dials in Austria. It also contains errata for previous articles.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 47
Page 47
A report on the British Sundial Society's 1997 tour of sundials in Hesse, Germany. The tour, guided by Karlheinz Schaldach, visited ancient and modern dials in towns like Alsberg, Homberg, Frankfurt, Kassel, and Fulda. Highlights included 14th-century mass dials, modern dials with built-in equation-of-time adjustment, large painted building dials, and various vertical dials, as well as some humorous or unreadable examples.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 49
Page 49
Summarises the second Essex Sundial Meeting at Moulsham Mill. Presentations included a history of calendars, the sun's nuclear reactions, and a detailed look at the massive astronomical instruments and sundials at Jaipur, India, built in the early 18th century to determine celestial positions. The meeting concluded with slides of the German sundial safari.
The BSS and Members
October 1997
Page 49
Page 49
This report details a Mass Dial Group meeting in Gloucestershire, featuring talks on the 'Nature in Art' centre's work, a sundial for an educational exchange with Kenya, and the use of video for recording dial operations. Discussions covered mass dials and their evolution, Saxon Dials and their monastic origins, and visits to local churches, including the discovery of an early equiangular reclining dial.
Dials: Mass Dials, The BSS and Members
February 1996
Page 1
Page 1
A tribute to Dr. Marinus Hagen, a prominent sundial expert and Vice-President of the Dutch Sundial Society, highlighting his contributions to gnomonics and the founding of sundial communities.
The BSS and Members
February 1996
Page 4
Page 4
A comprehensive report on the 1995 BSS Conference at Grantley Hall, covering sundial exhibits, lectures, field trips, and society matters.
The BSS and Members
February 1996
Page 21
Page 21
A short piece encouraging exploration of historic properties and their sundials as listed in the Yellow Book.
The BSS and Members
February 1996
Page 40
Page 40
Details and results of the 1995 British Sundial Awards, recognising excellence in dial construction and design.
The BSS and Members
February 1996
Page 45
Page 45
Feedback and contributions from readers, including experiences, discoveries, and technical questions.
The BSS and Members
June 1996
Page 2
Page 2
A report on a regional BSS meeting in Essex featuring talks, member displays, and local sundial visits, highlighting community involvement and enthusiasm for sundial-related activities.
The BSS and Members
June 1996
Page 38
Page 38
A detailed report of the 1996 BSS conference, describing lectures, site visits, and discussions held among sundial enthusiasts.
The BSS and Members
June 1996
Page 47
Page 47
Reader feedback and discussion on various dialling topics, including responses to previous articles and new findings.
The BSS and Members
October 1996
Page 1
Page 1
The editor reflects on changes to the Bulletin's format and the importance of members' contributions, acknowledging the journal's reputation in the dialling world and discussing practical challenges like production costs.
The BSS and Members
October 1996
Page 23
Page 23
A report on a BSS members' meeting held in Newbury, highlighting talks, exhibits, and member contributions focused on sundial projects and research.
The BSS and Members
October 1996
Page 39
Page 39
A report on the BSS conference at West Dean College, summarising lectures, workshops, and notable discussions on dialling topics.
The BSS and Members
October 1996
Page 48
Page 48
A collection of brief notes, announcements, or small snippets of dialling news, updates, and miscellaneous items.
The BSS and Members
October 1996
Page 50
Page 50
Letters from Society members sharing feedback, observations, or queries about sundial-related topics.
The BSS and Members
February 1995
Page 45
Page 45
Letters from readers discussing various topics related to sundials, feedback on past articles, and general observations.
The BSS and Members
June 1995
Page 1
Page 1
A tribute to George Higgs, one of the Society’s earliest and most respected members, proposing a memorial sundial in his honour and reflecting on his legacy and contributions.
The BSS and Members
June 1995
Page 51
Page 51
Comments and feedback from members on previous issues, dialling topics, and Society business.
The BSS and Members
February 1994
Page 2
Page 2
Editorial discussing international sundial publications, restoration challenges, multilingual gnomonic vocabulary, and reports from Roumania and Sarajevo.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
February 1994
Page 37
Page 37
February 1994
Page 42
Page 42
Biographical summary of Nicholas Kratzer, a notable early 16th-century diallist and scientific advisor to Henry VIII.
Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
February 1994
Page 45
Page 45
Introduction to a new series of colour postcards issued by the BSS featuring diverse sundials.
The BSS and Members
February 1994
Page 46
Page 46
June 1994
Page 45
Page 45
An announcement and outline of a national sundial competition organized by the BSS, encouraging public participation in sundial design. The notice includes judging criteria, categories, and contact information.
The BSS and Members
June 1994
Page 47
Page 47
A collection of letters from readers discussing past articles, sharing observations, and raising questions. Topics range from technical sundial queries to personal anecdotes and corrections.
The BSS and Members
June 1994
Page 52
Page 52
An editorial roundup of BSS activities, announcements, and reminders. Topics include event planning, publication updates, membership issues, and administrative matters relevant to society members.
The BSS and Members
October 1994
Page 23
Page 23
This article describes the British Sundial Society's Mass Dial Group meeting held in Malton, North Yorkshire, in June 1994. It provides a light-hearted account of the attendees, their shared interest in dials, and their expedition to view numerous Anglo-Saxon and scratch dials in ancient churches. The author highlights the urgency of recording these crumbling historical artefacts due to environmental deterioration. The article also mentions a humorous discovery related to Shakespeare's "shepherds' dials" and references individuals like Robert Sylvester, Edward Martin (Mass Dial Group Co-ordinator), and Mrs. Alfred Gatty.
The BSS and Members
October 1994
Page 35
Page 35
This section provides an update on the availability of the British Sundial Society's (BSS) sundial program. It announces that the 5¼" disc version is no longer available, but the 3½" discs can still be purchased from the editor, with profits supporting BSS funds. The program runs on IBM compatible systems and requires a graphic adapter for drawing. It also mentions a simpler program by Mr. David Young and another by Mr. H.C. Parr (no longer available in disc form), and suggests the future formation of a group to address specialized aspects of dialling and pool ideas for computer use among members.
Dialling Tools, The BSS and Members
October 1994
Page 44
Page 44
This section comprises several letters from readers addressing various topics. James Richard discusses a "foolish servant" illustration, explaining that a dial showing anticlockwise figures and equally spaced hours for a full revolution indicates a southern hemisphere, South Pole location using temporal hours. J.R. Bradshaw clarifies the Greek and Latin inscriptions on Kircher's Sunflower Clock, providing transliterations and interpretations. Andrew Ogden describes a recently discovered medieval grave marker in Ireland that resembles a polar sundial base and post, inquiring about missing parts. The letters provide insights into dial interpretation, historical inscriptions, and new discoveries.
The BSS and Members
October 1994
Page 50
Page 50
This section serves as an "In Memoriam" for George Robert Higgs, a respected and enthusiastic member of the British Sundial Society. It features eulogies from his son, John Higgs, and close friend, David Gulland, along with an appreciation by Anne Somerville and an editor's note. The tributes highlight Higgs' extraordinary life, his quest for knowledge, his talent for design and invention (particularly in sundial making and restoration across Scotland), his warm personality, and his sharp intellect, which remained active even at 93. It recounts anecdotes demonstrating his humour, practical skills, and dedication to sundials and the BSS.
The BSS and Members
February 1993
Page 1
Page 1
This section summarises activities of various sundial societies including De Zonnewijzerkring, Analemma, and Commission of Sundials, Paris. It covers excursions, exhibitions, historical time differences, mathematical articles, moon dials, sundial designs, and construction details. It also reports on society meetings and record-keeping efforts.
The BSS and Members
February 1993
Page 8
Page 8
This editorial welcomes articles and letters from BSS members, acknowledging their contributions. It discusses publication standards, including UK English spelling, and highlights the ongoing need for more material and potential future editors. The editor expresses gratitude for members' appreciation and support.
The BSS and Members
February 1993
Page 17
Page 17
This report details the ongoing development of the British Sundial Society's computer database for recording sundials in the British Isles. It covers the evolution of data input forms, transcription, verification processes, and future plans to expand the register, noting uneven coverage across different counties.
The BSS and Members
February 1993
Page 26
Page 26
This report summarises the British Sundial Society's Bath Conference, detailing various talks and activities. Topics included drawing dials, human elements in sundial safaris, computer spreadsheet approaches, celestial sphere models, domifying circles, scratch dials, and the proposed Sundial Award Scheme, fostering companionship and enthusiasm.
The BSS and Members
February 1993
Page 34
Page 34
This section presents various letters to the editor. Topics include discussions on movable gnomon dials, moon dials, the term 'aplustre' related to the Tower of the Winds, a found Thomas Grice sundial, and scratch dials. Letters also express appreciation for the BSS journal.
The BSS and Members
June 1993
Page 1
Page 1
This section reports on activities of the Hungarian Astronomical Association and the Sundial Working Group of the Austrian Astronomical Society, including meetings, museum visits, and lectures on various sundial topics like holographic sundials. It also covers De Zonnewijzerkring's excursions, exhibitions, and a historical account of time differences in the Netherlands, alongside mathematical articles and ongoing efforts to record sundials.
The BSS and Members
June 1993
Page 30
Page 30
The Chairman reflects on the importance of acknowledging errors in the field of dialling and maintaining high standards within the British Sundial Society. He shares personal anecdotes of past mistakes and discusses common misconceptions about sundials, such as their role in timekeeping, reasons for their decline, and the historical evolution of their appearance, emphasizing the need for accuracy and critical examination.
The BSS and Members
June 1993
Page 43
Page 43
The editor provides an apology for the late publication of the bulletin due to medical conditions and mislaid material. He also welcomes articles and letters from members, outlining publication standards, including formatting requirements, accuracy, copyright considerations, and the preference for English texts. He notes the positive feedback on the bulletin and the approval for reprinting earlier issues.
The BSS and Members
October 1993
Page 1
Page 1
This section reports on activities of the Dutch Sundial Society "De Zonnewijzerkring", including an anniversary exhibition and plans for a meridian line in Utrecht. It also covers a discussion on Stonehenge, a mechanical sundial by A.J.M. van den Beld, and a continuation of M.J. Hagen's list of Netherlands sundials, alongside English abstracts from the Spanish "Analemma" Bulletin.
The BSS and Members
October 1993
Page 22
Page 22
This light-hearted article describes the joys and frustrations of "dial hunting," including the excitement of discovering new dials and the disappointment of finding none. It shares anecdotes of interacting with the public who are often unaware of sundial functions and recounts challenges like obscured views and misidentified "sundials," emphasising the dedicated hunter's passion.
The BSS and Members
October 1993
Page 32
Page 32
This article explores the rapid deterioration of ancient sundials in the British Isles, attributing decay to factors like stone quality and water-induced damage. It discusses examples like the Bewcastle Cross sundial and the importance of protection and restoration. The article highlights the British Sundial Society's aims in cataloguing and preserving historical artefacts to prevent their complete loss.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members
October 1993
Page 42
Page 42
This section contains letters from readers, including a discussion on "Neolithic Astronomy" and Stonehenge, suggesting early warning systems for climate change. It also features "Errors" pointing out misconceptions in a previous bulletin, and comments on "A Japanese Sundial", "Kircher's Sunflower Clock", and "Kratzer's 'Polyhedral' Sundial", along with a poem about rainbows.
The BSS and Members
October 1993
Page 44
Page 44
This section notes the positive response to a sundial article in 'Practical Gardening' and the increase in BSS membership enquiries. It announces details for the Annual General Meeting and Conference at Urchfont Manor, including a memorial lecture. It also outlines a week-long sundial-themed holiday in Ireland and reports on a stolen sundial from Helmingham Hall, which has since been recovered.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 1
Page 1
This section provides various updates, including news about the Spanish sundial association's bulletin "Analemma" and the Dutch "Der Zonnewijzerkring" bulletin. It announces the Essex Clock Fair where the BSS will be represented, details a BSS computerised dial listing, and outlines the BSS's collaboration with Jodrell Bank for an Educational Resources Centre and sundial installations. It also includes an offer for members to advertise wants/surplus items and announces the XII Scientific Instrument Symposium.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 3
Page 3
The chairman discusses the British sundial heritage, noting its rapid decline due to neglect and vandalism. He emphasizes the importance of the Society's ongoing work to catalogue, record, and research sundials in Britain for their preservation and restoration. He also cautions members about offering restoration advice without professional expertise and highlights the need to identify outstanding sundials for national protection.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 4
Page 4
The Secretary reports on the successful nomination of all current and three new council members, avoiding an election. He encourages more members to volunteer for council or sub-committee roles, acknowledging the challenge of geographical spread. The note also announces the AGM as a one-day event and the annual conference in Bath, plus an update on restoration efforts for a Gloucester church dial and the ongoing complexities with the Collyweston dial due to English Heritage involvement.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 25
Page 25
This profile introduces Harriet Wynter (born Molly Rich), a prominent figure in the scientific instrument world. It traces her career from working in an electrical instruments factory during WWII to becoming an antiques dealer specializing in scientific instruments. She co-authored a book on scientific instruments, publishes numerous catalogues, and is about to write a book on portable sundials, having recently been made a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 26
Page 26
This report details the 1991 BSS/Zonnewijzerkring Conference at Queen's College, Cambridge. Highlights included lectures on the split-gnomon dial by Hans de Rijk, Gordon Taylor's equiangular sundial, and Fer de Vries on gnomonics. Delegates toured Cambridge sundials, including an ancient scratch dial and multi-faced dials. Workshop sessions covered dial making by computer, scratch dials, portable sundials, and sundial education.
The BSS and Members
February 1992
Page 39
Page 39
Charles K. Aked reflects on the unexpected growth and success of the BSS Bulletin since its inception as a small newsletter. He highlights the rapid increase in membership, the transition to printed issues for clarity and illustrations, and the challenges of rising postage costs. The editor notes the high erudition of contributors, the society's ability to cater to diverse interests (including mass dials and computer programs), and solicits member contributions and suggestions for improvements.
The BSS and Members
June 1992
Page 1
Page 1
This section provides updates from various gnomonic societies including the Catalan Society of Gnomonics, the Austrian Astronomical Association's Sundial Group, the Unione Astrofilo Bresciani, and Der Zonnewijzerkring. It also includes errata for a previous bulletin article, detailing corrections for 'Sundial Alignment by the use of the Pole Star'.
The BSS and Members
June 1992
Page 8
Page 8
This entry reflects on the British Sundial Society's Council meetings, emphasising their light-hearted yet serious discussions. It also provides an update on the 1992 Annual General Meeting, welcoming new council members like Mr. R.A. Nicholls (Treasurer) and Mr. Robert Sylvester (Membership Secretary), and thanking retiring members for their significant contributions to the Society.
The BSS and Members
June 1992
Page 9
Page 9
This article reports on the British Sundial Society's participation in the Clacton Clock Fair in May 1992. Mr. D.A. Young and Mr. C.K. Aked displayed items, including sundial cigarette cards and a Singleton helical dial, attracting considerable public interest. The event underscored the general public's limited knowledge about sundials and the need for greater publicity for dialling.
The BSS and Members
June 1992
Page 37
Page 37
This article describes the development of the 'Make a Sundial' educational book by a British Sundial Society group, initiated in response to the National Curriculum requiring primary children to understand and construct sundials. The book, produced using desktop publishing, offers projects for constructing sundials from common materials, suitable for various educational levels.
How Sundials Work, Book Reviews, DIY Sundial Projects, The BSS and Members
October 1992
Page 1
Page 1
This section includes updates from De Zonnewijzerkring and mentions that the BSS tie, exclusively designed for members, is now available featuring the BSS symbol.
The BSS and Members
October 1992
Page 8
Page 8
This report covers discussions from the BSS Council meeting in September 1992, including approaches to the National Trust for sundial inventory, assistance for Hereford Cathedral's dial restoration, and a sundial trail at the Horniman Museum. Financial health, membership updates, and plans for the next AGM at Jodrell Bank are also noted. The education group is producing a dialling video.
The BSS and Members
October 1992
Page 44
Page 44
This "Secretary's Notebook" entry provides updates on upcoming BSS events for 1993, including the Spring Conference and AGM at Jodrell Bank with a "sundial safari". It also mentions a planned summer meeting at Newbury and an autumn trip to Holland following a Dutch invitation. The section details a past "bring and show" day at Newbury and an exhibition at Jodrell Bank.
The BSS and Members
July 1991
Page 1
Page 1
This section compiles news and updates from various sundial societies. It covers new bulletin issues from De Zonnewijzerkring (Dutch) and La Busca de Paper (Catalan), including mathematical dialling, celestial mechanics, and specific sundial descriptions. It also announces the founding of an Austrian Sundial Society and details a rare sun chronometer in Baden, Vienna, designed by Gibbs.
Book Reviews, Dialling Tools, Dials: Heliochronometer, The BSS and Members
July 1991
Page 13
Page 13
This essay explores the Northern Hemisphere bias in gnomonics and common perceptions, such as clockwise movements. The author describes his quest for Southern Hemisphere sundial information, noting the lack of specific literature and the 'anticlockwise' appearance of the sun and shadows there. He recounts finding an 'upside down' map of New Zealand, illustrating the profound difference in perspective for Southern Hemisphere dwellers.
How Sundials Work, The BSS and Members
July 1991
Page 27
Page 27
This section compiles letters on diverse sundial topics. Gordon E. Taylor recounts issues with sundial projects undertaken by the uninformed, while Denis Schneider discusses possible errors in tidal dial information and moon dial prospects. J.G. Freeman provides a crucial formula for wall orientation calculations. Allan Mills proposes using N and S extensions to the polar axes of a spherical model earth as gnomons, bringing the noon mark to where it would be expected (rather than at the terminator).
The BSS and Members
July 1991
Page 31
Page 31
This profile highlights Christopher St. J.H. Daniel, the Chairman of the British Sundial Society. It details his career from the National Maritime Museum, his specialization in sundial design and consultation, and his numerous notable designs and restoration projects (including the 'dolphin' sundial for the Queen's Silver Jubilee). It also mentions his keen interest in preserving the national sundial heritage and his extensive publications and affiliations within the gnomonic and navigation communities.
The BSS and Members
July 1991
Page 32
Page 32
This report details the 1991 British Sundial Society Annual Conference and AGM in Edinburgh. It highlights a coach tour of Scottish dials, featuring restorations and unique designs, alongside numerous lectures by notable members on historical dials, Newton's work, and educational initiatives. The event also included visits to city dials and museums, emphasizing good fellowship, information sharing, and the BSS's strong foundation.
The BSS and Members
October 1991
Page 1
Page 1
This section features various updates and news, including highlights from the Scientific Instrument Society's Bulletin, recent publicity for the British Sundial Society in national newspapers, details on a holographic sundial ('holodial') developed by Kristina Johnson and Rob Penland, and mentions regular contributions to "Clocks" magazine and "The Clockmaker" magazine. It notes the BSS Chairman's radio talks and lectures.
The BSS and Members
October 1991
Page 15
Page 15
Gordon E. Taylor reports on the development of the British Sundial Society's computerised sundial register, designed for historical research and restoration. With an estimated 10,000 sundials in the British Isles, the project aims to minimize paperwork by storing key information like location, type, condition, and maker in a database using custom-written programs due to limited funds. Members with computers are invited to assist with data input.
The BSS and Members
October 1991
Page 20
Page 20
Christopher St. J.H. Daniel discusses the significance and selection of emblems for scientific societies, using nautical examples. He explains why the British Sundial Society chose the equinoctial sundial as its emblem, symbolizing gnomonics and its fundamental role in dialling. Despite some member criticism, the equinoctial dial design is deemed simple, clear, and representative of the art's ancient origins and scientific principles.
The BSS and Members
October 1991
Page 21
Page 21
This profile highlights Robert Sylvester, a keen British Sundial Society member from Cumbria, who greatly aids the national sundial record and publishes a newsletter. It also features Ray Hartland, a retired lay reader from Isel church, who has written about the church's ancient scratch dials, suggesting they were better suited to school day hours than church service times. The earliest surviving British sundial, Bewcastle Cross, is mentioned as being in Cumbria.
The BSS and Members
October 1991
Page 35
Page 35
David Young reflects on his ten years in sundial interest and five years since meeting Andrew Somerville, emphasizing the value of personal contact in the field. He encourages members to connect locally and to consider standing for election to the BSS Council. The notebook also includes updates on available back numbers of the BSS Bulletin and a call for member comments on proposed lapel badge designs.
The BSS and Members
February 1990
Page 2
Page 2
This notice reports the death of Dr. F. A. B. Ward, the first President of the British Sundial Society, at the age of 85. It acknowledges him as the foremost expert on dialling in Britain and a significant figure in mechanical horology, highlighting his work at the Science Museum and his numerous publications and lectures.
The BSS and Members
February 1990
Page 24
Page 24
June 1990
Page 2
Page 2
This entry notes the untimely death of Dr. A.R. Somerville, the founding Chairman of the British Sundial Society. The comprehensive tribute article details his life, extensive career in organic chemistry and cancer research, his numerous hobbies including sundials and music, and his vital role in establishing the BSS.
The BSS and Members
June 1990
Page 3
Page 3
Celebrates George Higgs' 90th birthday, highlighting his career as an electrical engineer and his significant contributions to dialling. It details his work restoring sundials for the National Trust for Scotland, his design of an analemmatic dial, and his collaboration with David Gullan on glass dials.
The BSS and Members
June 1990
Page 6
Page 6
This report covers the inaugural British Sundial Society conference at Exeter College, Oxford. Key activities included the adoption of the Society's constitution, discussions on the Bulletin, a guided tour of Oxford's sundials, a members' exhibition, and lectures on diverse gnomonic subjects.
The BSS and Members
June 1990
Page 11
Page 11
This entry presents a series of suggestions and queries regarding the British Sundial Society's record form used for documenting sundials. Topics include standardizing photograph types, measurement units, gnomon angle recording, incorporating a scale, and strategies for gathering information from authorities.
The BSS and Members
June 1990
Page 25
Page 25
A poem commemorating the first British Sundial Society conference held in Oxford in March 1990. It evokes the timeless atmosphere of the city and reflects on the gathering of seventy like-minded individuals to discuss sundials, blending history with gnomonic science.
The BSS and Members
June 1990
Page 32
Page 32
This section presents detailed data on fixed sundials compiled for Austria and the German Democratic Republic, categorized by historical period, type, and photographic availability. It serves as an invitation for international members to contribute information for a planned global sundial listing.
The BSS and Members
October 1990
Page 22
Page 22
This appreciation describes Andrew Somerville's crucial role in founding the British Sundial Society (BSS) in 1989. It recounts his initiatives, including lectures, conferences (like the Oxford Gnomonics Conference), and future plans for the society, highlighting his dedication, intellect, and modesty in dialling endeavours.
The BSS and Members
October 1990
Page 24
Page 24
This article recounts G.R. Higgs' sundial exploration trips with Andrew Somerville across Scotland, focusing on discovering and restoring historical dials. Notable examples include a 57-face lectern dial at Hensol House, finding a cube dial in a rockery, and working on the Glamis Castle dial, including one designed by Andrew himself.
Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members
October 1990
Page 27
Page 27
This profile outlines Charles K. Aked's career from industrial chemist to Principal Scientific Officer in the Royal Naval Scientific Service. It highlights his extensive contributions to horology, including editing books, founding AHS groups, being a Fellow of NAWCC, and his current roles as Editor of the British Sundial Society Bulletin and The Clockmaker.
The BSS and Members
October 1990
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This announcement officially opens a memorial fund for the late Chairman, Andrew Somerville, following his tragic death. It solicits contributions from members and invites suggestions for the form the memorial should take, with deliberations to be held at the next BSS Council meeting.
The BSS and Members
