Meyn Mamvro - No 011 - Spring 1990

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 11, Spring 1990, is a magazine dedicated to exploring ancient stones and sacred sites, with a particular focus on the West Penwith region of Cornwall. The cover features a striking black and white illustration of a dolmen at sunset, accompanied by the magazine's title and key article topics: 'Cornish Holy Wells', 'Gold Bracelets', 'Stones of Power' by Paul Devereux, and 'Strange Sightings' by Doc Shiels.

Contents

The issue's table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles, including an editorial, 'Lost & Found' (Scilly Stones), 'Healing and Divination at Cornish Holy Wells' by Cheryl Straffon, 'The Mystery of Madron Well', 'Scilly Stones', 'Guide to Cornwall's Wells', 'Stones of Power' by Paul Devereux, 'Strange Sightings in Cornwall' by Doc Shiels, a book review of 'The Sun and the Serpent', and sections on 'Moot 90' and 'The Pipers Tune'. The magazine also includes a noticeboard with upcoming events and contact information.

Editorial and Introduction

The editorial section, likely on page 1, is not fully detailed in the provided text, but the magazine's overall stance is evident in its content. The introduction to the main article on page 3, titled 'Stones of our Motherland', sets the tone by discussing a 'debate' on earth magic or white witchcraft on Radio Cornwall. The editor recounts being invited for a live broadcast to present a positive view of paganism and earth mysteries. The article defines paganism as a religion in tune with natural rhythms and energies, a celebration of Mother Earth, and a way of relating to oneself, emphasizing it is not in conflict with Christianity. It highlights the spiritual and practical significance of ancient sites, built to celebrate the sun and moon and aligned to observe celestial events, reflecting a deep understanding of earth energies.

Key Articles and Features

Stones of our Motherland (Page 3)

This section, likely an editorial or introductory piece, discusses the 'debate' on earth magic and the editor's experience on Radio Cornwall. It defines paganism as a faith in tune with nature, a celebration of Mother Earth, and a spiritual dimension to ancient sites. The article touches upon the purpose of ancient sites as places of worship and astronomical observation, built with care and understanding of earth energies.

Ley Lines and Earth Mysteries Groups

The article mentions a talk by Paul Broadhurst and Hamish Miller on 'The Sun and the Serpent', which discussed ley lines. This event, organized by Meyn Mamvro, led to the formation of a local Earth Mysteries Group in West Penwith, which will meet regularly for discussions and site visits.

Forthcoming Events

The issue announces the annual Earth Mysteries Moot for 1990, to be held in Cornwall. Meyn Mamvro will assist in organizing this event, coinciding with the relocation of the Centre of Earth Mysteries Studies to West Penwith. Paul and Charla Devereux, the founder and co-ordinators of the Centre, are welcomed to the area.

Lost and Found: Scilly Stones (Page 4)

This article details the rediscovery of a 3ft high carved statue-menhir on St Martins, Isles of Scilly. Originally found during a heath fire and photographed in the 1950s, it was later re-discovered buried. Described as a trace of pagan religion, it resembles figures found in Brittany and the Channel Islands, possibly dating back to the Bronze Age. A stone replica will be housed in the Isles of Scilly museum, while the original has been returned to its site. The article also mentions a newly-discovered stone row on St Martins beach, consisting of three smallish stones with cup markings, potentially a Bronze Age site.

Bronze Age Gold Bracelets (Page 5)

This section reports on the auction of three Bronze Age gold bracelets found at Rosemorran in 1986. They were sold for £25,000, outbidding the County Museum at Truro. The article notes the owner's wish for them to remain in Cornwall, but the buyer is unknown. It also mentions a separate Bronze Age gold bracelet discovered on a beach on St Martins, Isles of Scilly, by Peter Dent. This bracelet, dating from about 1000 BC, was declared a treasure trove and passed to the Duchy of Cornwall, with replicas to be displayed at the County Museum.

Healing & Divination in Cornish Holy Wells (Pages 6-9)

Authored by Cheryl Straffon, this extensive article explores the numerous sacred and holy wells in Cornwall, particularly in West Penwith. It discusses their association with early Celtic saints and their potential use for at least 1000 years for healing and divination. The wells are described as perceived entrances to Mother Earth, unlocking the meaning of existence and providing a source of life and fertility. The article traces the evolution of well worship from pagan Celtic practices dedicated to the Goddess to later interpretations involving fairies and piskies, and eventual re-Christianization. It details specific wells like Colan Well, Madron Well, Chapel Euny, Roche Well, St Michael's Mount, and Alsia Well, explaining various divination methods using crosses, bubbles, pins, pebbles, and bramble leaves. The article highlights the wells' role in predicting matrimony, health, and the fate of loved ones. It also notes the continued use of these sites for healing, with rituals involving dipping patients and passing them around the well. The Men-an-Tol holed stone is also discussed for its divinatory and healing associations. The article concludes by emphasizing the enduring power and peace offered by these sites, with people still visiting and leaving offerings, seeing them as havens of tranquility and connection to Mother Earth.

The Mystery of Madron Well (Pages 10-11)

This article delves into the historical accounts and confusion surrounding Madron Well and its associated Baptistry. It references Charles Thomas, J.T. Blight, Hunt, William Scawen, Thomas Artle, William Copeland Borlase, and Quiller-Couch to explore the site's veneration for curative and prophetic powers. The article discusses the ambiguity between the 'Holy Well' (marshy ground) and the 'Baptistry' (stone trough), noting that while the Baptistry is not historically a baptistry, baptisms are sometimes performed there. It presents historical accounts of people seeking cures at the well, including the story of two cripples in the 17th century. The article highlights the difficulty in distinguishing the well from the baptistry, with some sources suggesting they are one and the same, while others indicate the well is separate from the chapel.

Noticeboard

• The Noticeboard section provides information on upcoming events and groups:
• Cornish Earth Mysteries Group: First meeting on Sat, Jan 27th in St. Just.
• Full moon eclipse: Fri, Feb 9th.
• Listen to the Earth: National energy-raising day on Mon, Apr 30th.
• 2nd May Day Eve: Maypole dance & B.B.Q on April 9th.
• Obby Oss Day: Tue, May 1st in Padstow.
• The Three Wells Walk: Sun, May 6th, 13th, or 20th in West Penwith.

Contact details are provided for Meyn Mamvro for further information. It also mentions Cornwalls' Pagan Network, operating from Bodmin, and the West Penwith Pagan Group, which meets regularly for discussions and ritual workshops.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are deeply rooted in paganism, earth mysteries, and the spiritual significance of ancient sites and natural landscapes in Cornwall, particularly West Penwith. The magazine champions a perspective that views these sites not merely as historical relics but as living places of power, connected to the earth's energies and ancient deities. There's a clear stance against the sensationalism or conflict-seeking approach sometimes found in media discussions of these topics, advocating instead for a respectful and integrated understanding of pagan beliefs and practices. The editorial emphasizes the continuity of these traditions, even as their meaning has evolved, and highlights the ongoing relevance of these sites for healing, divination, and spiritual connection in the modern world. The magazine actively promotes community engagement through events and groups, fostering a network for like-minded individuals.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, dated Spring 1990 and identified as issue 11, delves into the rich history and folklore of Cornwall's ancient sites, with a particular focus on its numerous Holy Wells. The magazine explores the intersection of pagan traditions, Christian practices, and the geological characteristics of the region.

The Three Wells Walk

The lead article, "The Three Wells Walk," details a researched 10-12 mile route in West Penwith, Cornwall, designed to recreate the tradition of visiting sacred wells on the first three Sundays in May. The walk encompasses three significant wells: Carn Euny, Sancreed, and Madron. The author recounts a specific walk on May 7th, 1989, describing the journey through fields, past ancient sites like Caer Bran hillfort, and the experience at each well. The wells are described as having deep, dark waters, and rituals involving throwing pins or rags for wishes and healing are mentioned. The article highlights the revival of the practice of tying rags on trees for healing, a tradition that had died out but has since returned. The walk concludes with a sense of profound insight into old ways.

Guide to the Holy Wells of Cornwall

Following the narrative of the walk, the magazine presents an extensive "Guide to the Holy Wells of Cornwall." This feature provides a comprehensive list and descriptions of over 50 Holy Wells across various regions of Cornwall, including South-West Cornwall, the North Coast Area, Bodmin Moor Area, and South-East Cornwall. Each entry includes the well's name, location (with map references), a brief history, associated legends, and physical descriptions. Many wells are noted for their healing properties, connection to saints, pagan origins, or unique settings, such as being in fields, churchyards, valleys, or even sea-cliff caverns. The guide also mentions associated structures like well-chapels, niches, and stone surrounds, and notes the presence of ancient symbols and legends of curses or guardians.

Notable wells mentioned include:

• Madron Well (page 1) and Madron Baptistry well (page 2), described as having pagan and Christian associations.
• Carn Euny wells (page 2), noted for their deep, dark waters.
• Sancreed well (page 2), visited as part of the walk.
• St Michael's Mount Giants Well (page 3), associated with Giant Cormelian.
• Hayle Phillack Well (page 3), with a legend of a sheriff's demise.
• Helston (Trewannack) Wendronas Well (page 3), with legends of crows and pre-Christian origins.
• Holywell Bay (page 4), featuring two wells vying for the title of 'Holy Well', one restored and one in a sea-cliff cavern.
• St Clether Well (page 6), noted for its large well-chapel.
• Altarnun St Nonna's Well (page 6), formerly a "bowsenning pool" for the insane.
• St Neot's Well (page 5), in a peaceful, secluded area with a feeling of mystery.
• Whitstone St Ann's Well (page 5), with a carving that might represent a pre-Christian idol.
• Morwenstow (page 5), featuring St John's Well and the now-dry St Morwenna's Well.
• St Cuby's Well (page 7), near Duloe stone circle, with a former granite basin featuring dolphins and a griffin.
• St Keyne Well (page 7), with a legend about ruling the marriage based on who drinks first.
• St Nun's Well (page 7), associated with legends of a guardian elf and piskies.

Stones of Power

This section features an article by Paul Devereux, an Earth Mysteries researcher and editor of "The Ley Hunter." The article, an extract from his upcoming book "Earthmind," discusses the effects of radiation from ancient sites in West Cornwall. Devereux presents findings from geiger counter and scintillometer readings taken at numerous ancient sites and test locations. He notes that some healing and holy wells, like the Chalice Well at Glastonbury and springs at Bath, are naturally radioactive, and less well-known wells like Sancreed in Cornwall can also yield surprisingly high radiation counts.

The article connects radiation to the use of granite by megalithic builders, highlighting Cornwall's high incidence of domestic radon and concentration of megalithic sites. It draws parallels between Cornish fogous (souterrains) and the Indian kivas, both of which are associated with uranium deposits and were used for ritual and ceremonial purposes. Devereux reports obtaining identical high background radiation readings in New Mexico and Cornwall.

Radiation Monitoring and Light Phenomena

Devereux details radiation monitoring conducted in Cornish fogous and dolmens during 1988, noting that readings within these structures were significantly higher than those outside. He recounts accounts of light phenomena observed within these sites. Archaeologist Dr. John Barnett reported seeing "periodic short bursts of multicoloured light" on the underside of the capstone of Chûn Quoit in July 1979, an effect confirmed by his photographer. Similarly, former psychologist Jo May witnessed "thin spirallic filaments swirling" inside Boleigh fogou in June 1988. Both sites yielded the highest radiation readings among the granite enclosure sites monitored.

The article suggests that ancient peoples likely interpreted these phenomena not as geophysics but as evidence of spirits or magical power. It posits that energetic stones, whether magnetic or radioactive, were used for healing, inducing altered states, and in conjunction with ritual activities and the use of psychoactive substances.

One anecdote describes a woman in Boleigh fogou experiencing a vivid "waking dream" of a wedding. Other instances of altered states and the appearance of a "white lady" have been reported at the same site, and a similar legend exists for another Cornish fogou.

Devereux speculates that altered states at sites with special properties might allow access to the Earth's energy body, potentially through alpha, theta, and delta brain rhythm states induced by physical contact with magnetic stones or heightened radon atmospheres, allowing consciousness to resonate at global levels.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the deep historical and spiritual significance of Cornwall's ancient landscape, particularly its Holy Wells and megalithic sites. There is a clear interest in exploring the connections between folklore, paganism, Christianity, and the natural environment, including geological and energetic properties. The magazine appears to adopt an investigative stance, presenting research and anecdotal evidence to explore these themes, encouraging reader participation and further investigation. The editorial stance leans towards valuing ancient traditions and the mysteries they hold, while also engaging with modern scientific inquiry, such as geophysics and radiation studies, to understand these sites.

The inclusion of a detailed guide to Holy Wells and an article on radiation at ancient sites suggests a commitment to documenting and preserving knowledge about Cornwall's unique heritage. The magazine also promotes related publications and events, such as the 'Three Wells Walk' and books by Paul Devereux, fostering a community of interest in these subjects.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 11
Volume: Spring 1990
Publisher: THE LEY HUNTER and MEYN MAMVRO
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO delves into the realm of the strange and unexplained, with a particular focus on unusual sightings and phenomena in Cornwall. The cover story, "Strange Sightings in Cornwall," highlights two anomalous aerial visitations and introduces the legendary Morgawr sea serpent and the bizarre Owlman of Mawnan.

Strange Sightings in Cornwall

The issue begins by referencing a previous look at spirits, elementals, and alien animals in W. Penwith and other parts of Cornwall. It then presents two curious examples of anomalous aerial visitations.

Newmill Sighting (September 1977)

A young couple, Peter Boulton and Caroline Bond, renovating the Old Post Office in Newmill near Penzance, reported an encounter with a luminous green and red object about 6ft in diameter. The object floated up a barn ramp, zig-zagged across a field, and then rested in a nearby field for several hours, witnessed by about 30 people. The following evening, four similar objects appeared. The couple subsequently suffered a mystery illness with symptoms including stomach pains, headaches, and nausea, which Jenny Randles suggested might be related to earth disturbance, an earth-light effect, or microwave radiation.

Three Wells Walk Sighting (May 7th, 1989)

The author, Tony 'Doc' Shiels, along with at least three other people, witnessed a silvery object moving slowly across the sky near Madron on the Three Wells Walk. The object suddenly changed color to aquamarine blue and disappeared over the horizon. The witnesses speculated if their 'well-visiting' activity, recreating ancient practices of collecting sacred water on a specific day, might have somehow released or tapped into elemental energy, manifesting as the light.

An asterisk notes that six UFOs flew over the coast at Crackington Haven in 1972. The section concludes with recommended reading: "Earth Lights" and "Earthlights Revelation" by Paul Devereux, and "Modern Mysteries of Britain" by Janet & Colin Bord.

MORGAWR and the MAWNAN OWLMAN by TONY 'DOC' SHIELS

This section explores two significant cryptozoological and folkloric phenomena in Cornwall.

Morgawr

Described as the famous Cornish sea-serpent, Morgawr was seen by scores of reliable witnesses in Falmouth Bay and the Helford estuary during the summer of 1976. It is characterized as a gigantic, hump-backed, long-necked creature, likened to an ocean-going Loch Ness Monster. The media coverage of Morgawr highlighted its connection to witchcraft, with a group of sky-clad Celtic witches conducting invocatory rituals that reportedly led to its manifestation. Other phenomena reported during this time included UFO activity, mysterious explosions, and sightings of 'little people'.

The Owlman of Mawnan

Also reported as appearing in 1976, the Owlman was first seen by two young girls, June and Vicky Melling, at Mawnan Old Church. They described a grotesque, human-sized, winged figure with pointed ears, great feathered wings, and a gaping mouth, hovering over the church tower. The creature was described as having red, glowing eyes and black claws. The article notes a parallel with 'Big Bird' in Texas during the same year. The Owlman's appearance is linked to the activities of witches, with three witches reportedly conducting ceremonies in the woods near Mawnan Old Church to invoke it, as the owl is their coven totem.

Further details on Morgawr are available in "Morgawr Myth or Mystery" by David Clarke. The article also mentions that during 1976, an American cousin of the Owlman was haunting Texas, known as 'Big Bird'.

Witness Accounts and Speculation

Sally Chapman and Barbara Perry encountered the Owlman on July 3rd, describing it as a big owl with pointed ears, red glowing eyes, and grey feathers, with feet like pincers. It flew straight up and disappeared into the trees. The following morning, the Greenwood sisters saw it standing in the trees, with legs bent backwards like a bird's, before it rose through the trees. The Owlman has reportedly been seen by at least a dozen more people, predominantly female and young, suggesting a link to feminine aspects and witchcraft.

Tony 'Doc' Shiels recounts his own experiences, including seeing Morgawr on three separate occasions and succeeding in raising and photographing the Loch Ness Monster in 1977 with the assistance of psychics. He also mentions seeing aquatic serpent-dragons in Ireland. He posits that these 'mythical' creatures play a significant role in Celtic folklore, with the serpent-dragon symbolizing geomancy and the man/bird representing a shamanic figure. He suggests that sightings by 'normal' people indicate something unusually important is happening, dramatically changing his own life after his first sighting of Morgawr.

Photographs are credited to Fortean Picture Library. The article is by Doc Shiels, 1989.

BOOK REVIEW

"The Sun and the Serpent" by Hamish Miller & Paul Broadhurst

This book, published by Pendragon Press in 1989, is reviewed as a "lovely book" that rambles throughout Cornwall and southern England, following "earth's energy lines" and visiting ancient sites and churches. It identifies two serpentine energy lines: the masculine Michael line (hilltop sites) and the feminine Mary line (well and water sites). These lines converge at key nodal points like Glastonbury Tor and Avebury. In West Penwith, the Mary line passes through sites like Alsia Well and the Blind Fiddler menhir. The authors suggest that these energy lines represent a "megalithic technology of such sophistication and precision that its scope is entirely beyond us." The book is warmly recommended to "lovers of the earth and her energies."

Reissued Cornish Books

The issue also notes the reissue of several sought-after Cornish books:

• "A WEEK AT THE LANDS END" by J.T. Blight (reprint of the 1861 volume).
• "FOLKLORE AND LEGENDS IN CORNWALL" by Margaret Courtney (reprint of "Cornish Feasts and Folklore", 1890).
• "CORNWALL AND ITS PEOPLE" by Hamilton Jenkin (a compilation of three 1932-4 volumes).

Events and Workshops

Annual Earth Mysteries Moot

THE LEY HUNTER and MEYN MAMVRO present the 13th Annual Earth Mysteries Moot, to be held in Cornwall at CAER (Centre for Alternative Education & Research) near Penzance on Saturday, September 15th, and Sunday, September 16th, 1990. CAER is described as an old Cornish manor house on a secluded site, featuring a 2000-year-old hill fort, fogou, woods, streams, and gardens. The event includes talks, slides, discussions, a concert of Celtic music, and a tour of West Penwith's ancient stones. Vegetarian meals and accommodation are available. Booking is limited.

DREAMWEAVERS in West Cornwall

Arwyn Larkin (Dreamwalker) offers teachings in the Celtic and Native American tradition. Two residential workshops are scheduled for May 1990 at CAER, Lamorna:

• May 19th-24th: Shamanic Healing (including use of psychic gifts and specific techniques).
• May 26th-31st: Birthing the Magical Child (discovering one's child spirit, the Celtic Mabon).

Each workshop costs £250.00 and includes residential costs. Bookings are through Jan Adamson & Carol Slater.

The Pipers Tune

This section addresses reader responses regarding the deteriorating state of ancient sites in Cornwall. Several sites are mentioned, including Porthmeor village, Goodaver Circle on Bodmin Moor, and Pendeen fogou, all suffering from neglect, encroachment, or unhelpful landowners. The Cornwall Archaeological Unit and the Cornish Trust for Nature Conservation are noted for their efforts, but often seem powerless against indifference.

Manifesto for Ancient Sites

Reader John E. Palmer suggests a manifesto for the re-erecting of stones, such as the North Road menhir. He emphasizes the need for utmost care, involving dowsers to find original stone holes and archaeological excavation to verify them. He also stresses the importance of determining the correct end for the stone to be in the earth and the angle at which it should be set, comparing horizon features. He proposes a temporary committee comprising specialists like dowsers, archaeologists, geologists, artists, and historians to ensure justice is done to the "ideals of the Ancients."

The Dragon Breathes......

This statement, attributed to Circular Polarity Projects and John E. Palmer (1989), declares that all megalithic monuments and ancient sacred springs and wells should be legally protected. It asserts that these sites are original Sacred Pagan Ritual Temples and part of the common inheritance of the British nation, serving as a "Living Inspiration for present and future."

Exchange Magazines and Paganism

The final pages list magazines for exchange, categorized under "Earth Mysteries & Sacred Sites" and "Paganism." MEYN MAMVRO itself is available on annual subscription. The list includes titles like "The Ley Hunter," "Northern EM," "The Cauldron," "The Pipes of Pan," and "Dalriada," covering a range of topics from earth mysteries and folklore to paganism and new age philosophy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and mysterious creatures, within the context of Cornwall's landscape and folklore. There is a strong emphasis on the connection between these phenomena and earth energies, ancient sites, and pagan traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, while also advocating for the preservation and respect of ancient sites and their associated energies. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting related publications, events, and other like-minded publications.