Meyn Mamvro - No 006 - June 1988

Magazine Overview

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, dated June 1988 (Issue 6), is dedicated to exploring the ancient stones and sacred sites of West Penwith, Cornwall. The cover features a striking illustration of a landscape, hinting at the mystical and historical themes within. The magazine is priced at £1.35 and is published by Meyn Mamvro.

Contents and Key Articles

The issue opens with an editorial and feedback sections, addressing 'Centre Stones' and 'Inscribed Stones', indicating ongoing reader engagement with previous articles. Several articles delve into specific aspects of the region's heritage:

• 'Where is the Third Piper?' by Cheryl Straffon investigates the mystery of missing stones in the Merry Maidens area, referencing historical accounts and local traditions.
• 'Go To The Woods' by Barry Heafield explores the connection between trees, Dryads, and the unique spirit of Cornish woodlands, drawing on his knowledge of the Cornish language and dowsing.
• 'Guide to the Crosses of W. Penwith' is a featured article, likely detailing the historical and cultural significance of Cornish crosses.
• 'The Celtic Year' by Ian Cooke & Cheryl Straffon examines the cyclical nature of Celtic traditions and their relevance.
• 'Ancient Dream: Cassette review' offers a review of a related audio product.
• 'Ithel Colquhoun: a tribute' by Jo O'Cleirigh pays homage to a notable figure.
• 'Spirit of West Penwith./Book Review.' provides a review of a book related to the region.
• 'The Pipers Tune' is another article contributing to the thematic exploration of local lore.

Editorial and Publisher's Notes

The editorial notes a price increase for the magazine due to rising printing costs, emphasizing that Meyn Mamvro is a non-profit publication. The editress, Cheryl Straffon, expresses gratitude to artists Gabrielle Hawkes and Jan Adamson for their contributions to the cover and artwork. The magazine prides itself on professional printing to ensure good quality reproductions of artwork, which is considered integral to conveying the essence of West Penwith.

A significant write-up from 'The Ley Hunter', a national Earth Mysteries magazine, is highlighted. Paul Devereux praises Meyn Mamvro as a "very nicely produced A5 magazine" covering "the whole spectrum of Earth Mysteries as pertaining to Cornwall." The review specifically commends Cheryl Straffon's expertise, noting her background in Earth Mysteries studies.

The magazine also mentions the annual 'Moot' organised by The Ley Hunter, a gathering of Earth Mysteries groups. The editress's presentation on West Penwith, described as "the tip of Cornwall, the very end of the land, the old area called Belerion," is reviewed, emphasizing the region's unique elemental landscape and the creativity it inspires. The article notes recent visits from John Michell and planned visits from Paul Devereux, indicating the area's continued draw for researchers.

Local Business and Events

VISIONS & JOURNEYS, a gallery located at 33 Fore Street, St. Just-in-Penwith, is featured. It offers a range of local crafts, photographs, and screen-prints by Tom Henderson Smith and Gabrielle Hawkes. The gallery aims to reflect the spirit of the Penwith area. An exhibition by Topham Vickers is also announced.

RITUAL WORKSHOPS are advertised for September 1988, focusing on Native European paganism, mythology, shamanism, and witchcraft. Ken Rees is offering a weekend workshop in West Cornwall, with options for 'Myth & Ritual Drama' and 'Introduction to Aspects of Shamanism'. A concessionary rate of £12 is available for Meyn Mamvro readers, compared to the normal rate of £30.

Specific Investigations and Findings

Centre Stones Debate

The article "Feedback on Centre Stones" discusses the debate surrounding the placement and purpose of 'centre stones' in Cornish stone circles, such as Boscawen-un. It contrasts Aubrey Burl's theory that these stones predate the circles with John E. Palmer's view that they are contemporary and aligned with the circle's geometry. Barry Heafield proposes that ley lines are the key, suggesting centre stones mark the 'power centre' rather than a geometric centre, emphasizing the magical and spiritual aspects over alignments.

Inscribed Stones

"On Inscribed Stones" reports on a stone found at Trewern Round with potential Ogham Script inscriptions. It also details a letter from Mrs. Mary Jasper about a marked stone in the vicarage garden in St. Just, which is artificially shaped and has incisions that might be letters. The article notes the scarcity of such inscribed stones in West Penwith, with the Men Scryfa being a known example, and seeks further information on this mysterious stone.

The Merry Maidens Area

Cheryl Straffon's article, "Where is the Third Piper?", meticulously details the stones and sites around the Merry Maidens stone circle. It identifies the known stones, including Gûn Rith, the two Pipers, Tregiffian Barrow, and various holed stones, some of which are now missing or have disappeared. The article references historical accounts by Borlase and J.T. Blight, as well as modern surveys by Vivien Russell and John Barnatt. The possibility of a 'third Piper' stone, mentioned in an old article by Ashley Rowe, is explored, though its existence remains uncertain. The article also touches upon a potential second Boleigh fogou and the infamous Boleigh circle mentioned by Sir Norman Lockyer, which was ploughed up and its stones removed.

Merry Maidens Leys and Geiger Monitoring

A map of the Merry Maidens area is provided, illustrating various leys connecting the stones and sites. Six specific leys are detailed, linking sites like Boscawen-Ros, Merry Maidens circle, Pipers, Boleigh Fogou, and Tregiffian Barrow, often referencing alignments with celestial events like the May Day sunrise or Imbolc/Samhain sunset.

Geiger monitoring readings taken around the Merry Maidens stone circle are presented. Background radiation averaged 75-80 CPM. Stones within the circle registered 90-110 CPM, while the interior of the circle showed a drop to 60-65 CPM. Tregiffian Barrow recorded significantly higher readings (160-180 CPM inside), and the SW Piper showed 120-140 CPM. The article speculates on the reasons for these variations, suggesting that stones within the circle might 'bounce' radioactive emissions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rich tapestry of ancient sites, folklore, and earth mysteries in West Penwith, Cornwall. The magazine consistently champions the unique spiritual and elemental landscape of the region, encouraging readers to explore and connect with it. The editorial stance is one of promoting local heritage, fostering a sense of community among those interested in these subjects, and encouraging active participation through contributions and attendance at events. There is a clear emphasis on the magical and spiritual aspects of these ancient sites, often contrasting them with superficial tourist exploitation. The magazine also demonstrates a commitment to thorough research, referencing historical accounts and contemporary investigations.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, dated June 1988, focuses on the intersection of nature, spirituality, and ancient traditions, particularly within the context of Cornwall. The cover prominently features 'THE CELTIC YEAR,' indicating a deep dive into seasonal festivals and their historical and mythological significance. The magazine also includes a comprehensive guide to the numerous stone crosses found in the West Penwith region of Cornwall.

Dryads and Communication with Trees

The issue begins with an article exploring the nature of Dryads, described as nature spirits deeply connected to trees. It highlights their long lifespans, extending up to a thousand years or more, and their existence predating the creation of the human world. The article emphasizes the importance of showing immense respect and kindness towards these spirits, noting their benign and friendly nature. Dryads are depicted as jolly characters who can impart peace and a sense of oneness with nature. A unique characteristic mentioned is their ability to inhabit multiple trees simultaneously, sometimes spanning vast distances, and their asexual reproduction through cloning.

The article provides practical advice on how to communicate with trees and their associated Dryads. It suggests calming oneself, approaching a tree peacefully, visualizing the Dryad as a large balloon encompassing the tree, and then placing hands on the trunk to feel the tree's energy. Closing one's eyes and clearing the mind of worries is recommended to become sensitive to impressions. Speaking a greeting like 'hello' is suggested to initiate contact. The author shares personal experiences of receiving beautiful, technicolour images of woodland scenes and feeling a strong, peaceful magnetism when hugging a tree. The ability of Dryads to communicate instantly with each other across vast distances is also noted, explaining why ancient cultures referred to them as 'the many eyed ones.' The article stresses that patience and practice are key to successful communication, encouraging readers to try different trees if one proves unresponsive.

Furthermore, the article touches upon the broader benefits of such communication, suggesting it can bring a 'golden Sunlight' to the world and reduce the felling of trees. It introduces the concept of 'live wood,' wood from trees with their own Dryad, which can be used to create items imbued with friendly, helpful nature spirits. Obtaining live wood requires friendship and trust with the Dryad, who may allow a piece of its tree to be cut, with a subdivision of the Dryad remaining in the wood.

Guide to the Crosses of West Penwith

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed guide to the stone crosses of West Penwith, compiled by Su French and Tony Bayfield. The symbol of the cross is presented as ancient and universal, representing countless images, including sun symbols and the cardinal points. It is also seen as a symbol of crossroads, both as meeting points and potentially magical or dangerous places where opposite forces converge.

The article notes that many of these crosses mark ancient crossroads, trackways, and boundaries, and were often situated on sites previously sacred to pagan ceremonies. Early Christians are said to have adapted these sites to their own religion. The guide then proceeds to list and describe over 100 crosses, providing their coordinates and locations, such as:

• Penzance Market Cross: Located in Penzance, removed in 1829, now alongside Penlee House.
• Tremeath Cross: Found on the A30, decorated with double-armed crosses.
• Nun Careg: Near Merry Maidens stone circle, a wayside cross with a round head.
• Boskenna Cross: At the junction of B3315 to St. Buryan, a crosshead mounted on a millstone and cider-press.
• Boskenna Gate Cross: Marking the old church path to St. Buryan.
• St. Buryan Churchyard Cross: A well-preserved cross with a Christ figure.
• Alsia Cross: In the undergrowth amongst trees, a large, round-headed cross.
• Vellansaga Cross: On the road from Lamorna Gate, near an ancient chapel site.
• St. Buryan Churchtown: A cross set high on a built-up base, outside the church gate.
• St. Levan Churchyard Crosses: Including a tall decorated cross and a crosshead mounted above a stile.
• Rospletha Cross: On the path from the Church stile cross to Rospletha.
• Ardensawah Cross: Set into a hedge alongside a low stile.
• Trebehor: A worn round crosshead mounted on a wall beside a stile.
• Trevilley Cross: A cross shaft with a broken cross head.
• Treve Cross: Set against a hedge, originally from Trevescan.
• Sennen Churchyard Crosses: Including a tall shaft cross and an unusual crosshead.
• Crows-an-Wra: Standing beside a decorative milestone, giving the village its name.
• Brane Cross: Marking the boundary of estates, on an alignment with tumuli.
• Sennen Green Cross: Originally known as Maen Cross, set into a hedge.
• Brew Cross: A long shafted Latin cross erected in a field.
• Sancreed Churchyard Crosses: Elaborate crosses with geometric designs.
• Tremethick Cross: Set high on a hedge, marking an ancient barrow.
• St. Just Crosses: Including the Market Cross and the Selus Stone.
• Madron Churchyard: Two crosses, one near a wall, another on a path edge.
• Boswarthen Cross: A well-preserved roundhead cross, remounted on its shaft.
• Trengwainton Carn: A neglected round-head cross on its original stone base.
• Zennor Churchtown Cross: Used as a lintel above a back door.
• Trevega Cross: Near the entrance to Zennor Churchyard.
• Trewey and Tregerthen Crosses: Marking the East and West ends of the Borlase Grave.

The article concludes by listing several references for further study on Cornish crosses and ancient stones.

The Celtic Year

This section, authored by Ian Cooke and Cheryl Straffon, explores the significance of the Celtic year and its four major festivals: Samhain, Imbolc, Beltane, and Lugnasadh. These festivals are described as predominantly pastoral, celebrating the fertility of the land and the cycles of nature, and were later Christianised into holidays like Hallowean, Candlemas, May Day, and Lammas Day.

• Samhain (November 1st): The Celtic New Year, marking the beginning of winter. It was a time of feminine activity, danger, and preparation for renewal. It was also a time when the barriers between the living and the dead blurred, with ancestral spirits potentially appearing. It was a time for rest and thanksgiving, and the full moon symbolized the completion of the waxing growing time.
• Imbolc (February 1st): Signifying the commencement of spring, this period saw the hesitant appearance of new life. The masculine energies of the sun began to dominate, and it was associated with the growth aspect of the Goddess, fertility, and healing. Sacred waters were important, and the festival is linked to Brigid or Bride, the Goddess of fertility.
• Beltane (May 1st): Celebrated as the 'Fire of the Shining One,' marking the transition from winter to summer. It was a time of prolific blossom and new life, possibly celebrated with a horned moon, symbolizing fertility and sexual energy. Hilltop fires and sacred waters were used for purification and protection. The May Queen was crowned, and the Maypole was central to celebrations, symbolizing fertility and rebirth. The article notes that aspects of this festival have survived in Morris and Maypole dances.
• Lugnasadh (August 1st): The final moon festival, marking the beginning of autumn and a harvest festival. It was a time of contemplation of nature's death and tension, with the Corn God falling back into the ground. This festival is linked to the symbolism of the Crying of the Neck, where the spirit of the harvest is found in the last sheaf of corn. It represents the death and rebirth of the God Lugh, who sacrifices himself to the Earth Mother Goddess.

The article also mentions the use of fire as a magical force in festivals and how sacrificial fires were politically transformed into Guy Fawkes Night. It touches upon the 'Green Man' tradition and a painting by Penny Harris capturing this imagery.

Book Promotion

The issue includes an advertisement for 'CORNWALL BOOKS,' promoting a reproduction of Langdon's nineteenth-century study, 'Old Cornish Crosses.' This monumental work, comprising 528 pages, illustrates over three hundred crosses in Cornwall. It is available as a hardback, with a limited edition of 1000 numbered and signed copies. A pre-publication offer is extended until July 31, 1988, with the book priced at £18.00 plus postage and packing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Meyn Mamvro strongly emphasizes a connection to nature, ancient traditions, and spirituality. The articles on Dryads and the Celtic Year highlight a reverence for the natural world, its cycles, and its inherent spiritual forces. The extensive guide to Cornish crosses underscores a focus on local history, archaeology, and the blending of pagan and Christian influences. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages readers to engage with these ancient beliefs and practices, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural and spiritual realms. There's a clear advocacy for respecting nature and reconnecting with ancestral traditions, suggesting that such engagement can lead to personal peace and a richer understanding of the world.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, dated June 1988, is the sixth issue of Volume 06. The magazine focuses on paganism, earth mysteries, and ancient traditions, with a strong emphasis on Cornwall and its historical and spiritual sites.

Articles

Spirit of West Penwith

This article, written by Ithell Colquhoun and extracted from her book 'The Living Stones', explores the unique atmosphere and natural beauty of West Penwith in Cornwall. Colquhoun describes the peculiar light, the flora, and the ancient standing stones and wells, suggesting a deep connection to Atlantean remnants and ancient sun-worship. She highlights the area's rich history and its continued significance for pagan practices. The text evokes a sense of deep connection to the land, its energies, and its ancient past.

Midsummer Ritual

This section announces an upcoming 'open' Midsummer Ritual at the Men-an-Tol, organized by Kevin and Ingrid Carlyon of Sussex. The ritual, scheduled for the Solstice on Tuesday, June 21st, is described as a sunrise and sunset event aimed at celebrating the solstice. The organizers, who identify as 'white witches', emphasize a neutral force accessible through positive thought. The article notes that West Penwith is becoming a focal center for new pagan awareness, with local pagan groups actively using ancient sites.

Ithell Colquhoun - A Tribute

This tribute by Jo O'Cleirigh celebrates the pagan aspects of the late Ithell Colquhoun, a renowned Surrealist artist and writer who passed away in April 1988. The article details her involvement with the Golden Dawn Movement, her deep connection to the natural world of Cornwall as expressed in her book 'The Living Stones', and her interest in Celtic traditions. It mentions her initiation as a Priestess of the Fellowship of Isis and her membership in the Breton Gorsedd. The tribute also touches upon her Gothic novel 'Goose of Hermogenes' and her frustration at the lack of like-minded individuals in Cornwall. Despite her isolation in later years, she found comfort in a young follower of the Golden Dawn. The piece concludes with a poignant quote from Colquhoun, reflecting on her spiritual journey.

Ancient Dream by Aeolian Songspell (Review)

This review by Cheryl Straffon discusses the cassette 'Ancient Dream' by Aeolian Songspell, a musical duo comprising Michael Woolf and Rachel Garcia. The songs were originally created to accompany pagan festivals in West Penwith. The reviewer praises the music's deep connection to the Earth and its ability to convey spiritual essence. The review details each song, linking them to specific pagan festivals and themes: 'Draw Back the Veil' for Samhain, 'Light' for the Winter Solstice, 'Imbolc' for Imbolc, 'Changes in the Air' for the Spring Equinox, 'Beltane' for Beltane, 'Hour of the Summer Solstice' for the Summer Solstice, 'Ancient Dream' for Lughnasadh, and 'Season of Repose' for the Autumn Equinox. The reviewer highly recommends the cassette for its profound and evocative nature.

Book Review: The Healing Wells Cornish Cults and Customs

This review by CS examines 'The Healing Wells Cornish Cults and Customs' by P.O. and D.V. Leggatt. The reviewer notes that the book is a factual guide to 35 Cornish wells, with some illustrated, comparing it to other guides like Lane-Davies' 'Holy Wells of Cornwall' and Meyrick's 'A Pilgrims Guide to the Holy Wells of Cornwall'. While acknowledging its usefulness as a general guide, the reviewer points out omissions and the selective nature of the sites covered. The review highlights the book's introductory chapter on the Celtic culture of wells, emphasizing their pagan origins and the connection between healing rituals and the renewal of the sun. A bibliography is also mentioned.

The Piper's Tune

This section, also by CS, discusses the ongoing threats to ancient wells and the discovery of new standing stones. It mentions the launch of Paul Broadhurst's book 'Secret Shrines' and highlights concerns about wells being destroyed or threatened by development, citing examples like Lower Boscaswell, Venton Sauras, and Bohellan. The article also reports on the discovery of a potential second standing stone near the Pridden menhir in St. Buryan and a pagan figurine found on St. Martin's Island in the Scillies. It includes feedback from readers Colin McIntosh and T. Young regarding the phenomenon of stones remaining free of snow, offering explanations related to microclimates and warmth.

Exchange Magazines and Subscriptions

The magazine lists several other publications with which it exchanges, covering topics such as Earth Mysteries, Sacred Sites, Paganism, and general esoteric interests. It also provides subscription details for MEYN MAMVRO itself, along with information on back copies and planned future articles covering topics like the pagan origin of crosses, destruction of sites, dowsing, stone circles, and Arthurian legends.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the deep spiritual and historical significance of Cornwall, particularly West Penwith, its ancient sites (stone circles, wells), and pagan traditions. There is a strong focus on the Celtic year, its festivals, and the connection between nature, earth energies, and pagan practices. The magazine also engages with contemporary paganism, including music and rituals, and addresses issues of site preservation. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting and documenting pagan culture, history, and spirituality, while also raising awareness about the threats to ancient sites. The inclusion of book reviews and a tribute to a significant figure like Ithell Colquhoun underscores a commitment to scholarship and cultural preservation within the pagan community.