FtV - The Rod Men of Middletown
New England Legends Podcast
Deep Dive
What is dowsing and how is it traditionally used?
Dowsing, also known as divining or water witching, is an ancient practice used to locate underground water, minerals, or buried treasure. Traditionally, dowsers use tools like L-shaped metal rods, forked tree branches, or pendulums to detect subtle energy fields created by water or other substances. The practice involves walking a property in a grid pattern, and the dowsing tool indicates the presence of water or other materials when the dowser passes over them.
Why did dowsing become unpopular in the 1690s in New England?
Dowsing became unpopular in the 1690s, particularly in northern Massachusetts, due to the Salem Witch Trials. During this period, people with seemingly magical abilities, including dowsers, were viewed with suspicion and fear. Many dowsers fled north to Vermont to escape the witch hunts and persecution.
How did dowsing rods play a role in the founding of Mormonism?
Dowsing rods influenced the founding of Mormonism through Joseph Smith, who was inspired by the practices of the Rodmen of Middletown, a religious group that used dowsing rods to communicate with God and search for buried treasure. Smith, born in Sharon, Vermont, adopted dowsing and later claimed to find a great treasure using divining rods. His experiences and beliefs eventually led to the establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which today has over 16 million members worldwide.
What was the prophecy of Priest Wood and how did it impact Middletown, Vermont?
Priest Wood, the leader of a religious group in Middletown, Vermont, prophesied two apocalyptic events: a supernatural destroyer would wipe out half the population, followed by a massive earthquake to finish the job. He claimed these events would occur on January 14, 1801. The prophecy caused panic in Middletown, leading locals to organize a militia to prevent potential violence from Wood's followers. When the date passed without incident, Wood's credibility collapsed, and he left town, ending his religious movement.
What is the American Society of Dowsers and what is their perspective on dowsing?
The American Society of Dowsers, headquartered in Danville, Vermont, promotes the practice of dowsing. According to Leanne Potter, the society's president, dowsing is about accessing a source of information using tools like metal rods, pendulums, or forked branches. She emphasizes that the tools themselves are not special but act as antennas to help the dowser tune into subtle energies. The society views dowsing as a skill that can be used to locate water, minerals, and other hidden resources.
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