Meyn Mamvro - No 012 - Summer 1990

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 12, Summer 1990, is a magazine focused on ancient stones, sacred sites, and earth mysteries, particularly in the West Penwith region of Cornwall. The cover features a striking illustration of a stone circle and lists key themes such as 'Stones Circles', 'Alignments', 'Spirit of the Lizard', 'Dowsing', 'Celtic Paganism', and 'Book Reviews'. The price is listed as £1.35.

Contents

The issue opens with an editorial and a detailed table of contents. Articles cover a range of topics including:

• Editorial
• Protecting Cornwall's Sites by Nick Johnson
• Lost and Found - Sandyway Cross/Noticeboard
• Rings of Stone (CS)
• Sightlines to the Sun by Calum McIntosh & Cheryl Straffon
• Dowsing at Boscawen-un by Paul Broadhurst & Hamish Miller
• Circles of Stone by Alexandra Lobban
• Guide to Stone Circles of W. Penwith
• Duloe Circle - a healing sanctuary by Lee Elston-Jenkins
• The Native Keltic Tradition by Daveth Map Hekka
• Spirit of the Lizard by Robin Ellis
• Book Reviews
• The Pipers Tune

The magazine also includes advertisements for 'Visions and Journeys' (an art exhibition) and the 'New Age Festival of Mind Body & Spirit'. Copyright is held by Meyn Mamvro or the authors, and views expressed are those of the contributors.

Protecting Cornwall's Sites

Nick Johnson, County Archaeologist, addresses the issue of neglect and damage to Scheduled Ancient Monuments in Cornwall. He clarifies that while the Unit is concerned, they do not have direct statutory control over these sites, which remain the landowner's responsibility. English Heritage plays a key role in maintaining lists and advising on works. The Unit works to monitor sites and encourages owners to take an active role in conservation, with support from EH grants and organizations like the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV). Examples of successful site management include Warbstow Hillfort, Castle an Dinas, and Carn Brea. The article also notes efforts to widen the areas designated as Scheduled, particularly in West Penwith.

Sancreed Well Incident

An article discusses a controversial incident at Sancreed Well, where 'The Cornishman' newspaper reported on alleged 'black magic' and 'satanic graffiti'. Church Warden William Thomas claimed the site could be used for devil worship. Meyn Mamvro's response, attributed to Cheryl Straffon, argues that the graffiti was likely the work of youths and that the items found (clothing, ribbons) were traditional 'clouties' left for healing purposes, a practice predating Christianity. The piece emphasizes that other faiths have rights to sacred sites and criticizes the signposting of the well as 'holy', suggesting it may have attracted unwanted attention.

Rings of Stone

This section explores the mysterious nature of stone circles in West Penwith, suggesting they were places of sacred rites, possibly linked to the Neolithic community, the Goddess, and festivals. The article describes the sensory experience of being at these sites, feeling their warmth and energies, and observing their connection to the seasons and celestial events. It urges visitors to approach the stones with respect and care, recognizing their ancient wisdom.

Sightlines to the Sun

Written by Calum McIntosh and Cheryl Straffon, this article delves into 'astro-archaeology' and the astronomical alignments of Cornish stone circles. It notes that around 900 circle sites exist worldwide, with many in Britain. The article outlines generally agreed assertions about circles: their construction from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, their function as community focal points for religious ceremonies and possibly trading/judicial events, and their eventual disuse. It highlights that stones were often transported great distances and that circles were typically built on raised land, not hilltops. The precise layout suggests knowledge of geometry and a standard measurement unit. The primary function proposed is observing solar and lunar events to create agricultural calendars and predict celestial shifts. The article explains how sites were aligned with points like barrows or cairns, and mentions the significance of Celtic festivals (Yule, Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasad, Samhain) in relation to sunrise and sunset directions.

A table details the modern dates and sunrise/sunset directions for these festivals. The article also touches upon the complexity of lunar cycles and their prediction. A simplified guide to the moon's position throughout a lunar month is provided.

Astronomical Alignments of Cornish Stone Circles

This section, summarizing research, details specific astronomical alignments observed in several Cornish stone circles:

• Boscawen-un: Aligned with fallen menhirs for Samhain/Imbolc sunrise and with the Hedge Stone for midsummer sunrise. The centre stone's alignment also indicates the Samhain/Imbolc sunset.
• Nine Maidens Boskednan: Aligned for Beltane/Lughnasad sunrise and midsummer sunrise/sunset.
• Tregeseal E. circle: Aligned for Beltane/Lughnasad sunrise, connecting to other sites and landmarks.
• Treen Common: Shows potential astronomical alignment with rock outcrops marking the midsummer sunrise and a specific alignment for midwinter sunset.
• Merry Maidens circle: Aligned with various stones and a lost circle, marking the setting of the Pleiades star system around 1960 BC, which would have signaled the imminence of the Beltane sunrise.

The article concludes that these alignments demonstrate a sophisticated level of astronomical observation by megalithic peoples.

Dowsing at Boscawen-un Circle

Paul Broadhurst and Hamish Miller describe their experience dowsing at the Boscawen-un stone circle. They emphasize the site's ancient and numinous atmosphere. Their dowsing revealed an energy line, termed 'Mary', which entered the circle and then shifted its direction significantly at the base of a large monolith, suggesting either the stone caused the reorientation or marked a natural point of change. This observation leads to speculation about the sophisticated technology and precision of the megalithic builders, possibly involving buried stone structures to counteract subsidence.

Lost and Found - Sandyway Cross

This short piece reports on the theft and recovery of the Sandyway Cross near Lanlivery. The cross, approximately 1.1m high, has a history of being moved and damaged. The article notes that a man is to be charged with its theft. It also mentions other crosses that have been moved from the Lanlivery area over the years and a cross found used as a gatepost on Bodmin Moor.

Noticeboard

The noticeboard provides information on upcoming events and groups:

• Cornish Earth Mysteries Group: Monthly meetings in Penzance, with site visits and field trips planned.
• Annual Earth Mysteries Moot: Scheduled for September 15th-16th, 1990, at CAER, Lamorna, featuring talks, a concert, and site tours.
• West Penwith Pagan Group: Regular meetings for discussions and ritual workshops.
• Mid-Cornwall Pagan Network: Aims to link people interested in learning about various esoteric topics, with events including socials and workshops.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reverence for ancient sites, particularly stone circles in West Penwith, and the exploration of their spiritual, historical, and astronomical significance. There is a strong emphasis on earth mysteries, paganism, and Celtic traditions. The magazine adopts a stance that champions the preservation of these sites and advocates for a deeper understanding of their cultural and spiritual heritage, often challenging conventional archaeological interpretations and highlighting the importance of traditional practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting alternative perspectives on history, spirituality, and the landscape, encouraging readers to engage with these sites respectfully and thoughtfully.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, dated Summer 1990, is issue number 12 and focuses on ancient stone circles and the Keltic tradition, particularly in Cornwall. The magazine explores the physical and spiritual aspects of these sites, their historical context, and their connection to earth energies and shamanism.

Circles of Stone

The magazine provides a comprehensive guide to Cornish stone circles, highlighting their importance as ancient sites dating from around 2500 BC to 1600 BC. It notes that Cornwall has approximately 20 recognizable circles, with a concentration in West Penwith. These circles are described as generally circular or nearly circular, with similar-sized stones, and are believed to have been built as ceremonial sites, many of which are still used for such purposes.

West Penwith Sites

• Merry Maidens (SW4327 2451): The most accessible and well-preserved, with 19 stones in situ. It was dated by T.C. Lethbridge to 2540 BC, confirmed by archaeological estimates of 2400 BC. One stone reportedly gives off a mild electric shock, and an anomalous radiation count has been found. The circle is known as 'Dans Maen' (the dancing stones) from a legend.
• Boscawen-un (SW4122 2736): Located in an evocative, hidden enclosure. It was mentioned in medieval Welsh triads as one of the three principal gorsedds in Britain. It features 19 restored stones with a western entrance gap. A prominent central standing stone leans at an angle, and may have axe heads visible at midsummer sunrise. Astronomical alignments, including the Imbolc/Samhain sunset, are noted.
• Tregeseal (SW 3866 3238): Situated near Carn Kenidjack, it has 19 standing stones, though disturbed in the past. It is aligned to the rising May Day sun over Boswens menhir. The article mentions former circles in the vicinity and leys running through the site.

Other Sites

• Nine Maidens (Boskednan) (SW 4343 3512): A somewhat ruined circle retaining 11 stones out of a probable 19. It may have had an outlier for the summer solstice sunset. It is suggested to be part of a 'processional way' from a settlement to a sacred hill.
• Treen Common (Porthmeor) (SW4446 3666): Noted by Borlase as 'Zennor Cirque', it is a large circle of 14 erect and fallen stones, possibly part of a later settlement. A midsummer sunrise alignment is suggested.
• Other former sites: The article lists several other locations where stone circles or similar structures once existed but have largely disappeared, including Truthwall Common, Boslow, Higher Trevorrian, Rosemergy, Tredinnick, Whitesand Bay, Carnyorth, Botallack, and Treen near Logans Rock.

Mid and East Cornwall

• Nine Maidens (Wendron) (SW6831 3653): Remains of an isolated stone circle with 6 stones from one circle and 2 from another. It offers fine views and seems aligned to an outcrop on Carnmenellis summit.
• Duloe (SX 2359 5830): A unique circle of 8 stones composed entirely of white quartz. It is a small circle, with some stones re-erected in their original positions. The stones appear to be shaped, alternating in size, possibly representing male and female.

Bodmin Moor

Circles on Bodmin Moor are generally larger with more stones. A brief summary lists several sites including Trippet Stones, Stripple Stones, Leaze, King Arthur's Down, Stannon, Louden Hill, Fernacre, Leskernick, Nine Stones, Goodaver, Craddock Moor, and The Hurlers. The Hurlers site has three circles.

Duloe Circle - A Healing Sanctuary

This section, by Lee Elston-Jenkins, details visits to the Duloe stone circle. The author recounts an event where a cow successfully gave birth to twins within the circle, suggesting it acts as a maternity ward. A psychic visitor described the circle as having "tremendous healing energy." The article touches upon the properties of quartz crystals, their use in healing, and speculates whether the ancient builders of Duloe Circle were aware of these properties, linking it to the Age of Aquarius.

The Native Keltic Tradition

Authored by Daveth map Hikka, this section argues for the primacy of the Keltic tradition as the native spiritual path for the British Isles, especially Cornwall. It suggests that shamanism is most effective within its native environment, drawing parallels with American Indian and Aboriginal shamanism. The author encourages readers to explore their local surroundings, place names, and folklore to connect with this tradition. He is part of an Edinburgh-based group that researches and practices Keltic shamanism, led by Kaledon Naddair. The article emphasizes the importance of preserving Keltic heritage against 'developers' and highlights the deep meaning of trees in the native tradition, used for divination and possessing unique qualities.

The author discusses the importance of the 8 fire festivals and the need to think shamanistically about one's relationship with nature and the directions. He advocates for using Old Cornish in addressing the Gods, as was done historically. The article also stresses the significance of trees, noting their role in providing oxygen and their deeper spiritual meanings in the native tradition, including their use in divination.

Earth Pulse and Other Information

The magazine includes advertisements for "Earth Pulse," a contact network and newsletter focused on stone circles, earth energies, and dowsing, and "Covenant of Earth Magic," offering details on witchcraft and earth magic. The back cover also features "The Book of Shadows" and information on joining the Covenant of Earth Magic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration and preservation of ancient stone circles, particularly in Cornwall, and the revival and practice of the native Keltic tradition and shamanism. The magazine adopts a stance that emphasizes the spiritual and energetic significance of these ancient sites and traditions, advocating for a deeper connection with nature and heritage. There is a clear call to action for readers to engage with and protect these elements of their cultural landscape.

MEYN MAMVRO, Volume 12, Issue Summer 1990, is a magazine focused on Earth Mysteries, Paganism, and related esoteric subjects. The issue features a prominent article titled "Spirit of The Lizard" by Robin Ellis, exploring the unique energies, legends, and ancient sites of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.

Spirit of The Lizard by Robin Ellis

Robin Ellis recounts his three-year exploration of the Lizard area of Cornwall, highlighting its strange and hidden ways. He describes the peninsula as composed of Serpentine, an ancient rock linked to legends of an Old Dragon. The article delves into the mysterious valleys, believed by locals to be infested with snakes and haunted by the 'Great Snake', and notes that visitors often experience disorientation within these woods, attributing it to vortices of earth energy.

The earth energy in The Lizard is known as 'Snake Breath', accessed through natural fissures, wells, and sea-caves. This energy is said to cause psychic experiences, vivid dreams, visions, apparitions of a female entity, and encounters with gigantic talking serpents. The article suggests that listening to the earth-spirit can be like a "psychic earthquake" and can induce effects akin to LSD, creating electro-magnetic energies.

Ellis also discusses the 'Pellar', described as nature mystics and Shamans of Cornwall who are guardians of these valleys. People are drawn to the fissures and caves, especially during the full moon, experiencing a hypnotic compulsion and 'drowsing' on the energies. The Pellar are believed to be vehicles for a powerful earth-force that enables healing and magic. They have a ritual greeting and are associated with a blue gem-stone ring called a 'Millpreve'. Their origins are linked to a Celtic saint, a local Cornish Goddess, or the Black Goddess Lillith in her serpent form, who was said to command all snakes in Cornwall.

A ritual of blessing is described, involving a drink of water and pronouncements of "Droc Auto Athebo Drocanotho" (Love Be To They, Who In Love Believes), which can also be used as a curse. The Pellar aim to achieve a 'Super Consciousness' through interaction with their Goddess, to release dark forces of the Earth-Shadow in a controlled manner, and create an earthly paradise. They are believed to be able to cross over between Dream and Reality. The interaction with the Dark Goddess is deemed necessary to prevent frustrated energy from destroying their goals, as they believe happened in Lyonesse.

Among their current experiments, the Pellar are reportedly engaged in telepathic communication with whales and dolphins, and have been interfering psychically with tele-communication equipment in West Cornwall, possibly as a booster for their energy needs or due to interference with their utilized energy fields.

The article is illustrated with artwork by Jan Adamson ('Snake Dreamtime drawing') and Courtney Davis ('The Janus drawing'), with a serpent border design by Barry Millard.

Book Reviews

This section reviews several books related to Earth Mysteries:

• "Places of Power" by Paul Devereux: This book offers an insight into the secret energies of ancient sites across Britain, detailing electro-magnetic, ultrasound, radiation, and light anomalies. It features several Cornish sites, including Chûn Quoit, Boleigh Fogou, Trethevey Quoit, Pendeen, Carn Euny, Madron well-chapel, and Sancreed Well, noting high radiation levels at these locations. Devereux suggests these levels can cause mind-change experiences and that ancient sites were used for healing and augmenting altered states of consciousness to gain contact with spirit.
• "Earth Mysteries" by Michael Howard: This book provides an overview of EM material, including ley lines, astro-archaeology, and landscape geometry, with a pagan approach that views the Earth as a living goddess. It mentions Cornish sites and "Meyn Mamvro" itself.
• Guides to The Antiquities of West Cornwall by Ian Cooke: Cooke has produced revised guides to the Men-an-Tol area and a new guide to the Merry Maidens Circle area. These guides are described as excellent introductions to the sites, offering depth in research and presentation, with accurate EM research included.
• "ARTH VAWR" by Peter Middleton: This is a volume of poetry from the megalithic poet, containing poems about W. Penwith's ancient sites.

Events and Listings

The magazine includes listings for other "Exchange Magazines" in the Earth Mysteries and Paganism categories, such as "The Ley Hunter", "Northern EM", "The Cauldron", "Pipes of Pan", and "Moonshine".

It also announces "MOOT '90", a Saturday, September 15th event at CAER, Lamorna, featuring sessions on "Special Ancient Sites Viewpoint", "Sacred Sites of West Penwith", "Ley Hunting and Landscape Geometry", "Interesting Discoveries at Irish Sites", and "The Celtic Head Cult", with speakers including Paul Devereux, Cheryl Straffon, John Michell, Helen Woodley, and Andy Roberts. Accommodation and a vegetarian buffet lunch are available.

A "Bob Stewart Concert" is scheduled for Saturday evening at Acorn Theatre, Penzance, featuring the composer, musician, and author. The concert is open to non-moot-goers.

A "West Penwith Sites Visit" is planned for Sunday, September 16th, a coach trip with local experts to ancient sites.

Publisher Information

The Quay Bookshop in Penzance, Cornwall, is listed, offering a wide range of books including Earth Mysteries, Megalithic Science, Mythology, and Shamanism.

MEYN MAMVRO is available on annual subscription, with back numbers available as photocopies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Earth Mysteries, Paganism, ancient sites, folklore, and the exploration of esoteric energies and spiritual practices, particularly in Cornwall. The magazine appears to promote a spiritual and mystical interpretation of the landscape and ancient history, encouraging readers to explore these themes through articles, book reviews, and event listings. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting information and perspectives from various authors and researchers in the field.