The Dodleston Messages represent one of the most intriguing and mysterious phenomena in the realm of paranormal and time travel lore. This story, chronicled in Ken Webster’s book The Vertical Plane, revolves around a series of inexplicable communications that occurred in the mid-1980s, suggesting a connection between the present and the past.
Background of the Phenomenon
In December 1984, Ken Webster, a high school teacher, moved into a cottage in Dodleston, a small village near the England-Wales border. Along with his girlfriend Debbie and friend Nic, Webster encountered a strange phenomenon when they discovered messages appearing on their BBC Micro computer. These messages were not only addressed to them by name but also contained detailed information that seemed to originate from someone living in the same location during the year 1541.
The initial message appeared unexpectedly one evening while the computer was left on. Over the following months, more messages arrived, leading Webster to correspond with a figure named Lukas, who claimed to be from the 16th century. The nature of these communications raised questions about time travel, consciousness, and the fabric of reality itself.
Content of the Messages
The messages received by Webster and his friends varied in content but often included historical inquiries and personal reflections from Lukas. He expressed curiosity about modern life and asked questions about significant historical figures and events. The exchanges became increasingly complex, with Lukas revealing insights about his own time while posing philosophical questions that challenged Webster’s understanding of time and existence.
One particularly notable aspect was that the messages were not merely whimsical or nonsensical; they contained accurate historical references that would be difficult for an impersonator to fabricate. This led many to consider whether these communications were genuine or part of an elaborate hoax.
Ken Webster’s Exploration
Ken Webster meticulously documented these events in his book The Vertical Plane, published in 1989. The book is structured as a personal narrative that combines elements of supernatural investigation with philosophical musings on time travel. It explores not only the nature of the messages but also Webster’s evolving belief in their authenticity.
Webster’s narrative is compelling because it balances skepticism with openness to extraordinary possibilities. He recounts how he initially dismissed the messages as pranks but gradually became convinced of their significance as he delved deeper into their content and implications.
Cultural Impact and Investigations
The Dodleston Messages have sparked considerable interest over the years, leading to various investigations by enthusiasts and skeptics alike. The story has been featured in documentaries and podcasts, highlighting its enduring appeal as a modern mystery. Some investigators have suggested that if genuine, these communications could imply a form of time travel or alternate realities.
Despite its obscurity, The Vertical Plane has gained a cult following among those fascinated by paranormal phenomena and time travel theories. The book is often cited as a unique contribution to discussions on these topics, blending personal experience with broader existential questions.
Vertical Plane’s 1989 Edition has reached a price from 150 up to 250 euro in the book market.
Ken Webster’s The Vertical Plane not only chronicles an extraordinary series of events but also invites readers to ponder profound questions about time, reality, and our place within it. Whether seen as genuine communication from the past or an elaborate psychological experiment, this tale continues to captivate those intrigued by the mysteries of existence.
