Meyn Mamvro - No 003 - Aug 1987

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 3, dated August 1987, is dedicated to exploring the ancient stones and sacred sites of West Penwith, Cornwall. The cover features a striking illustration of a mystical landscape with standing stones under a moonlit sky, and lists key themes such as 'Living with a Fogou,' 'Earth Magic at Cornish Sites,' 'Cromlechs,' 'Faery,' 'Paganism,' 'Leys & Earth Mysteries,' and 'Book Reviews.' The price is listed as £1.20.

Editorial and Introduction

The editorial section acknowledges reader reactions to previous issues, particularly an article on old pagan customs. Hugh Miners contributes memories of original Beltane events and praises Meyn Mamvro for accurately presenting 'true Cornwall.' Mrs. F. Ellis shares childhood memories of the Boleigh fogou and a holed stone, with future features promised on wells and holed stones. The magazine highlights original ideas on earth geomancy, with contributions from Calum MacIntosh, who praises the magazine's balanced and critical approach. The editorial expresses pride in the quality of readers and contributors, aiming to build a unique collection of knowledge on ancient West Penwith. Thanks are extended to Gabrielle Hawkes for the cover art, Jan Adamson for headings, and Tony Bayfield for map work. Information is provided on how to obtain additional copies.

Articles and Features

Oakdragon Comes to Penwith

This article describes the Beltane Dragon Camp, a week-long event in May 1987 near Grumbla, West Penwith, celebrating Earth Mysteries. Billed as a 'living university on the green earth,' the camp aimed to stimulate and awaken people through a participatory journey. Attendees engaged in workshops on labyrinths, leys, dowsing, earth-healing, and ancient Cornish landscapes. Visits were made to sites like Sancreed Beacon, holy wells, the ancient Tinners Way, and Boscawen-un stone circle. Talks covered ecology and astrology, with activities including path-working, maze-walking, music-making, and ritual chanting. The event fostered spontaneous friendship and community, described as a 'timeless atmosphere of community and co-existence.' The Sunday included a labyrinth path-working with Sig Lonegren and a pagan wedding festival.

So May It Be

A short, poetic piece from the Oakdragon Camp, reflecting on nature, earth energy, and ritual.

Earth Magic at Cornish Sites

This section, featuring contributions from B.S. McMillan and Calum MacIntosh, delves into the sacred geomancy of West Penwith. Calum MacIntosh shares findings on ancient stones and concepts of parallel lines. He discusses astronomical possibilities at sites, noting the need for accurate verification of directions. Specific sites examined include:

• DULOE STONE CIRCLE: Noted for a possible midwinter sunset line and a potential equinoctial sunset alignment.
• TREGESEAL STONE CIRCLE: Mentioned as having outlying stones that might form basic geometry, with a potential survey suggested.
• Holed Stones: The author expresses suspicion of holed stones but notes that one outlier at Tregeseal might align with a midsummer sunrise.
• TREEN COMMON STONE CIRCLE CONTROVERSY: Discusses the doubtful status of this circular arrangement, presenting points in favour of its stone circle status, including dowsing reactions and a potential astronomical alignment with the Zennor Quoit.
• BOSCAWEN UN CIRCLE: Mentions a possible Candlemas sunset line and notes that the quartz pillar and centre stone might have been intentionally angled.

The Parallel Lines

Authored by B.S. McMillan, this article explains the concept of 'Parallel Lines,' which are lines drawn on Ordnance maps with a bearing of 68½ degrees east of grid north. These lines are found to run across Britain, connecting prehistoric sites and works. The author details how to identify these lines using a template and grid references, providing examples of lines crossing Penwith and extending to Dartmoor and Essex. The article also mentions 35 parallel lines crossing the Penwith peninsula and 14 crossing the Isles of Scilly, with specific sites listed.

Living with a Fogou

Jo May writes about his experience living with the Boleigh fogou at Rosemerryn in West Penwith. He emphasizes the need to spend time with the fogou to understand its secrets, suggesting it was a focal point for spiritual practices involving death, rebirth, vision quests, and healing. The fogou's underground nature is compared to the Native American Kiva. The article notes that the fogou is located on a ley line and its orientation is significant. Legends associate it with witchcraft, and it was thoroughly exorcised before use for meditation or research. The fogou's carving depicts a Celtic god of healing, 'Clew an Nemed,' and symbols of the serpent and dragon, representing life force and energy. The emblem is thought to represent a balance of heaven and earth forces.

Book Review: Journey to the Stones

This section includes a book review, though the details of the book and the reviewer are not fully legible in the provided scan.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rich ancient heritage of West Penwith, Cornwall. These include Earth Mysteries, the geomantic significance of ancient sites (stone circles, cromlechs, holed stones, fogous), pagan customs and beliefs, faery lore, and the concept of earth energies and leys. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting and preserving the understanding of this unique cultural and spiritual landscape, encouraging scholarly yet accessible exploration and contribution from its readership. The magazine positions itself as a platform for revealing the 'true Cornwall' and fostering a community of interest in its ancient past and esoteric traditions.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, dated August 1987, delves into the mysteries of ancient Cornish sites and folklore. It features articles on the enigmatic fogou, Cornish cromlechs, and the realm of faery folk, exploring their potential functions, historical context, and the legends surrounding them.

The Fogou and Orgone Accumulators

The issue begins by drawing a peculiar similarity between the Cornish fogou and Wilhelm Reich's orgone accumulator. Wilhelm Reich, who researched 'orgone' or life energy, developed apparatuses called orgone accumulators to restore vitality and heal patients. These accumulators are constructed from alternating layers of organic and inorganic material, designed to suck in and hold energy. The fogou, described as a deep trench lined with inorganic granite and covered with organic soil, shares this structural characteristic. A key property of orgone accumulators is their effect on body temperature, causing it to rise even when external conditions remain constant. The article notes that a similar effect occurs inside the fogou, with body temperature increasing by a degree or two after a few minutes, independent of air temperature. The Rosemerryn Fogou was recently surveyed as part of the "Dragon Project", an inquiry by associates of "The Ley Hunter" to find scientific evidence for the purpose of ancient sites. This project involved comparing Geiger counter readings at stone circles and the fogou. It was found that the level of radioactivity inside the stone circles was half that outside, and the fogou's reading compared to the outside was double, suggesting it acts as an accumulator.

The article further explores phenomena experienced in the fogou, including inner voices, perceptions of presences (often female figures), visions of symbolic events like inner cleansing or the soul's journey, and experiences of enforced entombment for spiritual confrontation. It suggests the fogou might be located in a place of power, linked to other sites in a landscape spiritually worked by a lost ancient people. The 'power' or energy of the place is thought to affect human energy fields, accentuating life force flow and heightening experiences. Such places are also considered "edges between worlds" where "other realities" are more perceptible.

A Guide to Cornish Cromlechs

This section provides a comprehensive guide to Cornish cromlechs, also known as Penwith Chamber tombs. These monuments are described as fascinating and enigmatic, with archaeologists uncertain about their primary purpose, whether they were covered by burial mounds, and their relation to astronomical alignments and leys.

Definition and Terminology

While described as a form of chambered tomb, Cornish cromlechs differ from others in construction and size. They are also known as variants of portal dolmens, with only a few being true portal dolmens (featuring a simple antechamber or facade). The term 'Quoits' is also used in Cornwall, referencing the large capstones thought to have been hurled by giants. The name 'dolmen' (meaning 'stone table') is considered more accurate than 'cromlech' (meaning 'curved place'), which was formerly applied to stone circles.

Construction and Purpose

Cromlechs/dolmens/quoits were constructed around 3700-2500 BC (middle Neolithic). Some, like West Lanyon, contained large deposits of bones, while others, like Chun, yielded no remains. This suggests a ritualistic use rather than solely burial. The article notes that some sites, like Chun, had a retaining wall for a mound, while others, like West Lanyon, were covered by mounds that were later removed. The possibility of unexcavated burial mounds containing cromlechs is raised.

Specific Sites and Alignments

The article details several specific sites:

• Lanyon SW430337: Described as accessible but not entirely authentic due to a storm collapse in 1815 and subsequent re-erection. It features a large capstone and is thought to have been a focal point for ceremonial activity, with a suspected ley running through it.
• West Lanyon SW423338: Located in a sloping field, its capstone had fallen and was propped up. Large deposits of bones and possibly bronze and copper objects were found. It is suggested to have been a closed box chambered tomb, with alignments from Tregeseal Circle and a May-day sunrise alignment noted.
• Chún SW402339: This quoit is almost perfectly preserved, with a 12ft. round capstone. It is surrounded by a low circular mound. While Michell found no alignments, a possible ley runs through it from another chambered tomb.
• Mulfra SW452354: Originally resembling Chun, it stood in a circular barrow. Its capstone has slipped and been trimmed for use as a millstone. It is unusual for being in a low-lying valley. A ley is found running from Men Scryfa through a tumulus to Mulfra Quoit.
• Zennor SW469380: Features a portal and an antichamber, with a massive capstone. Findings include a whetstone and pottery, suggesting use by the living as well as the dead. A ley is postulated from Boswens menhir to Zennor Quoit.
• Sperris SW471382: Re-discovered in the 1950s, only one upright and fallen stones remain, with the capstone missing. A small cremation pit was found. It is the only instance of two quoits close together.
• Bosporethennis SW436365: Its remains are embedded in an oval barrow. The capstone has been trimmed for use as a millstone. It is a hybrid version with characteristics of barrows and entrance graves.
• Giants Grave (Churchtown): Mentioned as a ruined cromlech near Morvah Church, where rites for gaining future knowledge were performed. Parts of the stone may still be found.

Sites Outside West Penwith

The article also briefly describes sites outside the immediate West Penwith area:

• Trethevy SX259688: Similar to Zennor, with a box chamber and antichamber. It has a large capstone and an orientation towards the November sunrise or May sunset.
• Pawton SW966696: Known as the Giants Quoit, it has a heavy capstone resting on a low rectangular box, with no ante-chamber.
• Lesquite SX071628: A fallen capstone leans against uprights, with no remains of a barrow.
• Carwynnen SW650373: Also known as Giants Quoit, its capstone stood on three uprights and has collapsed and been rebuilt multiple times.
• Devils Coyts SW923619: A quoit that collapsed and was broken up, with fragments rediscovered.

A New Cromlech is Erected in Cornwall!

This section reports on the erection of a new, full-size cromlech called "The Angel's Runway" at Eddie Prynn's megalithic centre in St. Merryn on St. Piran's Day 1987. The project involved moving a massive capstone (18.5 tons) and several large uprights using modern equipment like cranes and JCBs. Eddie Prynn described the monument as "the greatest mystic piece of sculpture in the world!" The name "The Angel's Runway" was chosen to allow fairies to land.

The Faery Folk

Written by Su French, this article explores the belief in faery folk in the British Isles, particularly in Cornwall. It discusses how faery belief has persisted since pre-history and in Celtic countries, with the very air in Penwith vibrating with spiritual force from pagan customs.

Piskey, Spriggan, and Little People

The article describes various faery beings:

• Piskey: Said to be a relative of the Leprechaun, appearing as a wizened old man dressed in green, known for both good work and mischief. They are sometimes seen threshing corn or leading people astray on moors.
• Spriggans: Described as grotesque hobgoblins, guardians of ancient sites, appointed to protect forts, barrows, and cliff castles where treasure was buried. They are feared for their ability to bring down storms and for stealing human children to replace them with changelings.
• Little People: These are described as beautiful beings, gifted in music and healing, richly dressed, and living in sheltered glades and cliff sides. They are sometimes seen at fairs or dances, adorned with silver bells, and their faery lights can be seen by fishermen.

Legends and Beliefs

Several tales illustrate beliefs about faery folk. One story tells of William Noy, a farmer who was "piskey-led" and lost for three days, recounting an encounter with his sweetheart Grace Hutchens who had been found dead on the moor. William used a hedging glove turned inside out to break the piskies' spell. Another tale describes a young man who dreamed of treasure and encountered fierce spriggans during a storm. A "miserly man" searching for treasure on the Gump was compelled to dance to enchanting music from faeries and was later bound by spriggans.

The article also mentions "knockers", spirits believed to inhabit tin and copper mines, treated with respect, and to whom miners would leave offerings. A tale of Tom Trevorrow, a miner who failed to leave a pasty for the knockers, resulted in a curse and misfortune until a witch lifted the spell.

The author concludes by expressing a hope that despite changing times, the land is still shared with a population of faery folk and little people who watch over and protect the magical landscape, and that their presence can still be felt.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient sites, particularly in Cornwall, and their potential connection to unseen energies or spiritual forces. The magazine presents a blend of archaeological information, historical accounts, and folklore, suggesting a belief in the enduring presence of ancient energies and mystical beings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these subjects, presenting theories and legends without definitive conclusions, but with an appreciation for the mystery and magic of the past and its connection to the present.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, dated August 1987, issue 03, is titled 'The Sacred Earth' and delves into Cornish pagan traditions, ancient sites, and folklore. The magazine features articles, a book review, and news items related to the mystical and historical landscape of West Penwith.

The Sacred Earth

The issue opens with an article by Marilyn Spencer, the organiser of a Medicine Wheel Gathering held on August 16th/17th at a stone circle on Bodmin Moor. This event was in celebration of a Hopi Indian prophecy and aimed to foster a connection with the Earth and a revival of 'Cornish/Celticness'. Spencer reflects on how Cornwall, like Native Americans, once freely worshipped Mother Earth, using plants for healing and holding ceremonies at Medicine Wheels. She laments the loss of these ways due to 'invaders' who imposed their beliefs, leading to the suppression of old religions, languages, and healing practices, and resulting in witchcraft trials. However, she notes a resurgence of interest, with young people seeking awareness for world peace and a desire to return to a more connected, friendly society. Spencer also describes an Indian Pow Wow held in Cornwall as an emotional experience where people found healing and their true paths. She identifies herself as a 'woman of the stones,' drawn to stone circles and using crystals for healing, referencing the magazine's title, 'MEYN MAMVRO - Stones of our Motherland.' She concludes by urging readers to emerge and walk in beauty, fostering a loving tribe that respects the Earth.

Old Pagan Customs

Hugh Miners, past Grand Bard of the Gorseth, contributes an article titled 'Old Pagan Customs,' reflecting on his boyhood in Penwith in the 1920s. He contrasts the isolated rural lifestyle, influenced by Celtic and earlier paganism blended with Methodism, with the sterile materialism of modern England. Miners recalls specific customs, such as referring to the sycamore tree as 'May' and the annual May Day celebrations in Penzance, marked by blowing 'may horns' and making 'feepers' (small whistles from twigs). He laments the arbitrary ban of the may-horn by an autocratic Chief Constable in the 1950s, seeing it as an action that antagonises the local population. Miners also corrects a statement in a previous article regarding Midsummer bonfires in West Penwith, listing several prominent hills where these were held, including Chapel Carn Brea, Bull Point, and Trewey Common. He recounts his own experience of attending a bonfire ceremony in Madron Cairn in 1930 or 1931, involving dancing around embers and leaping over them for good luck. He also describes the ancient observance of girls decking themselves with garlands and dancing in the streets on Midsummer's eve.

Miners argues that Midsummer bonfires, originally a custom for everyone, should not remain solely the province of Old Cornwall Societies after 60 years. He appeals to younger people, such as those in Young Farmers Clubs, to organise their own ceremonies to ensure these ancient customs, vital for marking seasons and acknowledging dependence on natural forces, do not die out. The editor notes that some local Pagan-orientated groups still light bonfires but are limited to their members, and includes an excerpt from William Bottrell's 'Stories and Folklore of West Cornwall' (1880) that describes the symbolism and purpose of these bonfires, including dancing over embers and leaping through flames for good luck and protection from malign influences.

The excerpt from Bottrell further details how old people would watch prominent hills for the first bonfire on Midsummer's eve to draw presages of good or bad luck. It also describes the charming observance of young girls, adorned with garlands, dancing in the streets, and playing games like 'threading-the-needle' and 'kiss-in-the-ring.'

Book Review: Journey to the Stones

This section reviews Ian Cooke's book 'Journey to the Stones: Mermaid to Merrymaid,' published by Men-an-Tol Studio in 1987. The reviewer praises the book as a rare and valuable contribution, offering new insights into megalithic ancestors and their society. The book is described as a 100% must for anyone interested in the ancient sites of West Penwith and the people who built them. It serves as a guide to 9 walks covering 46 sites, but also provides a deep and thought-provoking insight into Neolithic, Bronze Age, and post-Roman pagan and Celtic societies. The review highlights the book's exploration of the development of Neolithic society, the function of cromlechs, the symbolism of stone numbers in circles, and the evolution of societal structures. A chapter on astro-archaeology and sun and moon worship is particularly noted for its depth in explaining the relationship between the Sun God, Moon Goddess, and Mother Earth. The review mentions related topics such as Mermaids, the significance of severed heads in wells, and the pagan origins of Celtic crosses and early Christian churches. The book is illustrated with Cooke's drawings and lino-cuts, and includes clear maps and photographs. It is noted that while some standing stones mentioned may no longer exist, the book is a comprehensive resource, filled with love for the Earth and an understanding of ancient man's connection to the landscape.

The Piper's Tune

This article reports on the discovery and erection of a 'new' standing stone at Carn Eanes. The stone appeared after contractors working for Geevor mine cleared the site. The impetus for its erection came from the Fountain Group of Lelant, a group of dowsers who perform healing rituals for the earth. Through dowsing, they discovered the stone underground, believing it to be a prehistoric menhir. They then arranged for it to be brought to the surface and erected. The article suggests this stone may be part of a ley line connecting to other ancient sites in West Penwith. It also mentions another potential standing stone found lying face down in a farm lane, possibly the second Tresvennack stone. Additionally, hut circles near Kerris are noted as potential remains of an Iron Age village.

The article also reports on the discovery of three Bronze Age gold bracelets on Rosemorran Farm near Gulval. These were unearthed by a farm worker and dated to the middle Bronze Age. The bracelets were deemed not to be treasure trove and belong to the landowner, who wishes them to remain in Cornwall. This is the second such discovery in West Penwith this century, with a previous find in 1931 including torcs and bracelets.

Advertisements and Listings

The issue includes a section on 'Exchange Magazines,' listing other publications such as 'The Ley Hunter,' 'The Cauldron,' 'Pipes of Pan & Pagan Parenting Network,' 'Wood and Water,' 'Source Journal of the Holy Wells Group,' and 'Carn.' It also provides subscription details for MEYN MAMVRO itself.

Advertisements feature 'Journey to the Stones' by Ian Cooke, detailing its content and availability, and 'Bosorne Crafts,' offering handmade items like Celtic crosses and pendants.

'The Pipers at the Gates' announces an art exhibition at Visions & Journeys Gallery in St. Just, showcasing the work of Alex Smirnoff, Hannah Carbis, and Gabrielle Hawkes, artists interested in the mysterious and ancient landscape of Penwith.

A preview for the next issue of MEYN MAMVRO is included, highlighting articles on 'Where Stones Touch the Sky: Insights into the sites of W. Penwith,' 'A Guide to Holy Wells and Celebrated Springs' with Craig Weatherhill, and 'Brittany - Penwith's French Connection.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MEYN MAMVRO are the deep connection to the land, particularly Cornwall and its ancient sites, the revival and preservation of pagan and Celtic traditions, and the spiritual significance of Earth worship. The magazine promotes a worldview that values ancient wisdom, natural energies, and a holistic approach to life, contrasting it with modern materialism. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocacy for the preservation of cultural heritage, the exploration of spiritual connections to the landscape, and the empowerment of individuals and communities to reconnect with these ancient ways. There is a strong emphasis on the unique identity and heritage of Cornwall and its people, often referred to metaphorically as 'Cornish Indians.' The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting related publications, artists, and events within this sphere of interest.