Called dowsing or “water-witching,” the practice of using a brass rod or Y-shaped twig to find metals, gems, or water buried in the ground goes back to the Middle Ages. Those who still swear by the ancient art come together at the American Society of Dowsers Headquarters and Bookstore (184 Brainerd St., Danville, 802/684-3874, www.dowsers.org [1], 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Wed.–Fri.; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sat.), which has a full selection of books and divining rods for purchase.
While you are there, walk the labyrinth, a magical maze purported to bring wholeness and healing to those who walk it (to say nothing of dizziness).
Undaunted by countless scientific studies that have declared the art so much as bunk, a hundred-some dowsers come together each June to share stories and techniques at the American Society of Dowsers Conference (802/684-3417, www.dowsers.org [1]).
Links:
[1] http://www.dowsers.org