Meyn Mamvro - No 009 - Summer 1989

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue No. 9, Summer 1989, is a magazine dedicated to "Ancient Stones & Sacred Sites of West Penwith." Priced at £1.35, it explores themes of earth energies, paganism, Cornish pre-history, and folklore.

Contents

The issue features a diverse range of articles, including an "Editorial," "Lost & Found" (detailing new stone row discoveries), "Tintagel Slates Enigma," an "Events Diary," "Chasing the Dragon" by Paul Broadhurst, "The Mysterious Fogou" by Paul Thomas, "The Cult of the Fogou" by Ian Cooke, "Guide to Cornish Fogous," "Radio Carn Euny" by Pat Angove, "Spirit of the Fogou," "The Tinners Way: Pathway to the Past" by Cheryl Straffon, and "Book Reviews" on "The Power of Incense" and "The Pipers Tune."

Editorial: Paganism and the Environment

The editorial section discusses a local newspaper debate sparked by a comment about "Keep Britain Pagan" badges. Meyn Mamvro's response emphasizes that Paganism is the original native faith of Britain and that many people continue to practice it with a deep care for the Earth. The article notes that Christmas has pagan roots, being linked to the Winter Solstice. A letter from the vicar's wife of Pendeen is mentioned, arguing that the Christian Christmas coincides with the solstice by chance. Ann Hutchings of Newlyn is quoted, advocating for a deeper awareness of "planet earth and its people" and suggesting that Pagans sometimes have a greater sense of custody of the earth than churches.

The editorial also highlights "disturbing developments" on the West Penwith moors, including the digging of a trout pond and the erection of agricultural buildings near ancient sites, raising concerns about the potential enclosure and commercialization of these areas. The magazine proposes starting local "Earth Mysteries" meetings and field trips for interested readers.

Lost and Found: New Stone Row Discoveries

This section reports on a significant discovery by the Cornwall Archaeology Unit: a stone row at Treveglos near Zennor in West Penwith. This is the only known stone row in West Penwith and the second in Cornwall, after the Nine Maidens row near St Columb. The article details the location of the stones, one in a hedge, two in a field (one standing, one fallen), and a large gatepost stone. These stones are thought to align with Zennor Hill and may have been used to view the Samhain/Imbolc sunrise or Beltane/Lughnasad sunset. The article also lists other stone rows discovered on Bodmin Moor, including those at Colvannick Tor, and mentions a recently discovered 8ft menhir in De Lank Quarry, noting a peculiar right-angle placement of one stone.

Tintagel Slates Enigma

This piece discusses curious drawings found on slates during excavations at Tintagel Castle. Reproduced by Carl Thorpe, these drawings feature archetypal motifs like a hunter, a horned deer, a 4-armed figurine, and Celtic knot-work. The article notes that these are from a volume of "Cornish Studies 16," available from the Institute of Cornish Studies.

Events Diary

The "Events Diary" lists various upcoming events in Cornwall and beyond, including a one-day school on "Witches What Witches?" in Truro, New Age courses in Penzance, Shamanic Healing courses at CAER, a Summer Solstice Ritual, an exhibition of Megalithic drawings in Truro, the New Age Festival in Penzance and Truro, and a Folklore Seminar in Pool.

Chasing the Dragon: The St Michael Line

Authored by Paul Broadhurst, this article delves into the phenomenon of the "St Michael Line," a concept of sacred site alignments rediscovered in the late 1960s. The author and dowser Hamish Miller tracked the energy flow, discovering it is not a straight line but a sinuous, serpentine path. They identify this as the "Druidic Wouivres," "Serpents," or "Dragon paths." The article details discoveries along the alignment from Cornwall to Norfolk, including forgotten megaliths, earthworks, and holy wells. It highlights the significance of churches dedicated to St Michael or St George, and mentions Glastonbury Tor's "energy labyrinth" and Avebury as a "Serpent Temple." The article notes that the St Michael Line enters Cornwall at Carn Les Boel, a unique monolith near Land's End. It also touches upon a Victorian revival of interest in earth energies, seen in the construction of Truro Cathedral and modern chapels. The article concludes by mentioning that a full account of this work, "The Sun and the Serpent," will be published in the Autumn.

The Mysterious Fogou

Paul Thomas explores the mystery surrounding "fogous," ancient Cornish structures concentrated around West Penwith and the Lizard. He questions their original purpose, considering theories that they served as storehouses, places of concealment, or for ritualistic purposes, possibly involving initiation ceremonies. He notes their resemblance to other subterranean constructions in Europe and North America.

The Cult of the Fogou

Ian Cooke examines the "Cult of the Fogou," which emerged in the Lands End peninsula after 500BC. He suggests this was a localized development from Megalithic traditions, possibly linked to a tribal society focused on feminine powers and the rebirth of the sun. The article posits that the cult arose from a psychological need of warrior chieftains to appease Earth spirits amidst societal changes driven by metal trading and increased wealth, leading to a more patriarchal structure.

Book Reviews

The issue includes reviews of "The Power of Incense" and "The Pipers Tune," providing brief summaries of their content.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ancient sites, earth energies, paganism, and Cornish folklore, particularly in the West Penwith region. The editorial stance is one of reverence for the natural landscape and ancient heritage, advocating for its preservation against modern development and commercialization. There is a clear interest in exploring pre-Christian beliefs and practices, and in understanding the energetic connections within the landscape. The magazine actively encourages reader participation in discussions and local gatherings related to these themes.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, dated Summer 1989, focuses on the ancient Cornish structures known as 'Fogous'. The magazine delves into their history, construction, potential purposes, and the personal experiences and legends associated with them. The articles explore the archaeological significance of these sites, their connection to prehistoric cultures, and their place within the landscape of Cornwall.

The Nature and Construction of Fogous

The term 'Fogou' is an Old Cornish word for a cave, with corruptions like 'Vau' and 'Fuggie-hole' also noted. These structures are characterized by a long, usually curved, subterranean passage, often with a narrow side passage called a 'creep' which may have served as the original entrance. Some fogous also feature additional rooms or blind passages. They were constructed using drystone walling in a corbelled shape, topped with massive granite slabs. Fogous are consistently found associated with settlements and date from approximately 500 BC to 400 AD.

Proposed Functions and Interpretations

Several theories exist regarding the purpose of fogous. Initially, they were thought to be refuges, cattle pounds, or storage chambers, but these interpretations are considered to have serious defects. Ian Cooke strongly advocates for a ritualistic function, a view supported by archaeologist Henrietta Quennell, who points out that fogous often predate the surrounding courtyard settlements, suggesting their importance. The nature-oriented religion associated with fogous is seen as a continuation of ancient Stone Age Megalithic traditions, transposed into the heroic warrior society of the pre-Roman Iron Age. Fogous were linked with the Sun, similar to ancient Chambered Mounds, and were strategically placed to harness natural energies. Their primary function is proposed to be a physical, man-made bond between Mother Earth and the Sun, demonstrated by the orientation of their stone passages. The architecture, with its 'womb-temple' entrance and 'phallic' shaped passage, suggests a symbolic sexual nature related to the interplay of male and female energy patterns, affecting the Earth's growth and continuity.

Fogous are also interpreted as places for communal rituals, fertility ceremonies, and for individuals to seek benefits from Mother Earth at significant life points such as conception, birth, initiation, marriage, sickness, and death. They may have served as dark places for women to give birth, or as passages for the dead to commune with the Earth and underworld, aiding their journey to rebirth. The underground chambers could also have been used for contacting ancestral spirits through trance states.

Social and Religious Context

Initially, fogous were communal ventures. However, as class differences grew, their organization and administration became more hierarchical, with tribal religion coming under the direction of chieftains or groups of priests. Fogous were primarily an upper-class preserve, though lower orders might have participated in some rituals. They functioned as clan ritual structures until the early Christian era and the end of the Roman period of tin trading (around the 4th to 5th century AD). In some areas outside West Penwith, fogous were modified by other pagan tribes for different purposes, such as defense (e.g., Halligye).

The functions of fogous are compared to those of later parish churches: both were administered by wealthier classes, served as important architectural structures, were places of communal worship and individual ceremonies, and received offerings. Both also had links with the Sun, with church altars oriented towards the east (Birth and Resurrection) and Christ's birthday near the winter solstice.

Specific Fogou Sites and Features

The magazine details numerous extant and vanished fogou sites, primarily in West Penwith and the Lizard Peninsula:

• Carn Euny (SW 4024 2885): Located near the well-preserved Carn Euny Courtyard House settlement, it connects to a beehive hut. Built in phases, its passage was opened at different ends over time. Excavations in the 1860s and 1960s revealed pottery fragments and ashes. The settlement was abandoned around AD 400.
• Pendeen (SW 3837 3553): Described as a superb fogou in a mundane farmyard setting, it descends steeply underground. Entry is difficult due to a low creep. The passage and creep are filled with stones. A legend tells of a woman in white appearing on Christmas morning.
• Boleigh (SW 4370 2520): Situated within the grounds of Rosemerryn House, it was formerly part of an Iron Age earthwork. Excavation revealed Iron Age pottery. A unique feature is an indistinct carving on the entrance stone, interpreted as a symbol of a fertility cult, a Celtic hooded godlet, or a Celtic god of healing. Legends speak of witchcraft ceremonies.
• Porthmeor (SW 4341 3703): Located at the edge of a Courtyard House settlement, it is above ground, roofless, and lacks a creep. It features a sweeping curved passage and was excavated in the 1930s, yielding pottery from the 1st to 6th century AD.
• Lower Boscaswell (SW 3767 3484): Little remains except a short, debris-filled passage blocked by a modern wall.
• Chysauster (SW 4720 3483): The associated Courtyard House settlement is well-preserved, but the fogou has only two roofing lintels remaining.
• Bosullow Trehyllys (SW 4095 3423): Associated with a Courtyard House settlement, it may have a very small, roofless fogou.
• Halligye (SW 7132 2395): The largest and most complex fogou, with two main interlocking passages and smaller creeps. It is constructed on the natural surface and was excavated in 1980, showing it was part of a settlement. It has a total of 126ft of passages.
• Piskey Hall (Trewardreva) (SW 7280 3003): Resembles an entrance grave more than a fogou, with vertical walls and a short, slightly curved passage without side passages or a creep.

Vanished or doubtful sites include Treveneaque, Higher Bodinar, Castallack, Rosemorran, Bosigran, and Botallack. A structure marked as a 'fogou' near Alternun on Bodmin Moor is identified as a natural formation.

Personal Experiences and Legends

Several personal accounts highlight the profound and varied impact of fogous. Pat Angove describes arriving at Carn Euny and experiencing a sense of ancient signals and a peaceful atmosphere, followed by auditory phenomena. She notes the site's connection to the sun and moon.

Another contributor, K.G., shares her experiences, linking fogous to menstruation and possible childbirth rituals, drawing parallels with ethnic tribes. She emphasizes that fogous can feel different at different times and affect people uniquely. Some find the power overwhelming, while others feel drawn to sleep there. K.G. also recounts an instance where a fogou entrance was inexplicably blocked by large slabs.

The article "Spirit of the Fogou" by Pat Angove details her visits to Halligye and Boleigh. At Halligye, she and a friend experienced a deep sense of peace and connection, particularly noting that both were menstruating. At Boleigh, she describes the fogou as a gateway to the underworld, enriching her artistic vision. She recounts an intense visual experience in the fogou, feeling a loss of identity and time, and witnessing a vision that felt like watching a video. She interprets this experience as confirmation of her readiness to remarry.

The section "Fogou Experiences" by C.S. further explores these themes, noting the potential link between fogous and women's natural ability to connect with earth energies. Legends associated with Pendeen Fogou speak of a woman in white, and the Boleigh Fogou is linked to witchcraft ceremonies and the Devil.

The Tinners Way

Another article, "The Tinners Way - Pathway to the Past" by Cheryl Straffon, describes a prehistoric trackway running 12 miles across the West Penwith moors from St Ives to St Just. This route, used for transporting tin and copper in prehistoric times, passes many significant landmarks. It is presented as a magical walk, especially at night, connecting modern walkers to the folklore and legends of the region, and the routes used by Bronze Age and Celtic ancestors. The article highlights the route's association with sites like Kenidjack Castle, Tregeseal Stone Circle, and Carn Kenidjack, noting the legends of the 'hoooting Carn' and the spirits of the dead.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the mystical, spiritual, and archaeological significance of ancient sites, particularly the Fogous of Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on the connection between these sites, nature, prehistoric religions, and the feminine principle. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep respect and curiosity towards these ancient structures, encouraging exploration and personal connection with their history and energies. The magazine aims to educate readers about the archaeological findings, interpretative theories, and the rich tapestry of folklore and personal experiences associated with these enigmatic places.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, dated Summer 1989, is a publication focused on earth mysteries, sacred sites, and paganism, with a particular emphasis on Cornwall. The magazine features articles, book reviews, and news relevant to these themes.

Articles

The Tinners Way

The main article details a walk along the Tinners Way in West Penwith, Cornwall. It describes a journey connecting various ancient sites, including Boswens menhir, Chûn Quoit, Bosullow Trehyllys (a courtyard house village), the Men-an-Tol holed stone, Men Scryfa inscribed stone, and the Nine Maidens stone circle. The author, Cheryl Straffon, recounts a night walk experience, highlighting the magical atmosphere of the moors illuminated by torches. The route continues over Mulfra Hill, past Mulfra Quoit, and towards St Michael's Mount. The article also mentions Zennor Quoit and the area's association with witchcraft and folklore, including tales of witches meeting to renew vows. The walk concludes in St Ives, passing through Towednack Church with its legends of protection.

Book Reviews

Tales of the Tinners Way by Beryl James is reviewed. The book compiles old legends and tales associated with the Tinners Way, including stories of fairies, piskies, giants, mermaids, and sailors, drawing from 19th-century folklore volumes and modern tales of mining and seafaring. The reviewer notes that the book emphasizes the persistence of Cornish traditions due to the region's remoteness.

Mysterious Places by Peter Underwood is also reviewed. This book explores mysterious places in Cornwall, focusing on earth energies. It discusses sites like Carn Euny fogou, speculated to be an ancient storage place for occult energy, and the building of stone circles over geodetic energy springs. The review mentions Tom Lethbridge's use of pendulum dowsing to date the Merry Maidens and touches upon ghostly sightings and a ritualistic suicide in St Buryan.

Hidden Knowledge by Lori Reid is reviewed. This book attempts to trace the origins of modern festivals, arguing that celebrations like Christmas and Easter are modern guises of ancient pagan rituals linked to the cycle of the sun. It emphasizes Cornish festivals and their original meanings, recommending the book as a reference for pagan roots.

Saints of the South West by James Mildren is reviewed. The book includes an essay and gazetteer of early Celtic saints. Despite Mildren's assertion that saints brought Christianity, the review highlights how the pagan world remained vibrant. It discusses saints' connections to pagan motifs, festivals like Beltane and Samhain, and legends of decapitation associated with some saints, interpreted as a pagan motif where the sacred head was revered.

The Power of Incense

Written by Gabrielle Hawkes, this article discusses the background and use of incense, linking it to religious, magical rites, and communication with spirits. It explains how incense can focus the mind and enhance psychic faculties. The author recounts a group's experience using various incenses for a Winter Solstice ritual, including 'Three Fates', 'Hermes', 'Capricorn', 'Isis', and 'Selene'. 'Selene' is highlighted as a favourite for its freshness and connection to spring growth. The article also provides information on obtaining the AKADEMIA catalogue/magazine for further details on incenses.

News and Announcements

Witchcraft Museum for Sale: News is reported that the Witchcraft Museum in Boscastle, owned by Cecil Williamson, is up for sale for £300,000. The museum contains artifacts from Wiccan revivalist Gerald Gardner. A campaign is underway within the pagan community to raise funds to purchase the collection.

Merry Maidens Stone Circle: A brief mention is made of a news item from 1985 about a farmer chasing present-day 'witches' off the Merry Maidens stone circle. The article cautions against always trusting media reports and notes that while some farmers may be unsympathetic, others are genuinely interested in preserving these sites.

Rituals of the Stones Tapes: Kevin & Ingrid Carlyon offer cassette tapes on pagan rituals and Earth Magic, available to MM readers by sending blank tapes and postage. They also offer a booklet titled "Witchcraft an honest view".

Exchange Magazines: A list of other magazines that MEYN MAMVRO exchanges with is provided, categorized under "Earth Mysteries & Sacred Sites" and "Paganism," along with their contact details and subscription information.

MEYN MAMVRO Subscription: Information is given for subscribing to MEYN MAMVRO and ordering back numbers or photocopies.

Upcoming Issues: MM10 is due to feature "The Ritual Cycle, Penwith Altar Stones, Spirits of West Penwith & a Guide to Crosses," and MM11 will feature "Sacred Wells."

The Quay Bookshop: An advertisement for The Quay Bookshop in Penzance, offering new and second-hand books on a wide range of subjects including philosophy, occult, earth mysteries, and paganism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an interest in ancient sites, folklore, pagan traditions, and earth mysteries, particularly within the context of Cornwall. There is a clear alignment with the pagan and witchcraft communities, evident in the book reviews, news items, and advertisements for related publications and services. The editorial stance appears to be one of celebrating and preserving these traditions, encouraging readers to explore and understand the historical and spiritual significance of the featured locations and practices. The magazine also acts as a platform for community news and resource sharing within these niche interests.