Meyn Mamvro - No 013 - Autumn 1990

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 13, Autumn-Winter 1990, is a magazine dedicated to exploring the ancient stones and sacred sites of Cornwall. Priced at £1.35, this issue features a striking cover illustration of a dragon, hinting at themes of myth and legend.

Contents

The issue is packed with articles covering a wide range of topics related to Cornish heritage and earth mysteries. Key articles include:

• Editorial: A general introduction to the magazine's focus.
• Guardians of Cornwall's Heritage: A commentary piece discussing the protection and management of ancient monuments in Cornwall, with contributions from Nick Johnson (County Archaeologist) and reader John E. Palmer, highlighting concerns about the effectiveness of English Heritage.
• Lost and Found (menhirs): An article detailing the discovery of new menhirs (standing stones) in Cornwall, including one on Kit Hill and another on Bodmin Moor, and the rediscovery of the Longstone at Carbis Bay.
• Tintagel's Sacred Site: A significant contribution by Professor Charles Thomas, Director of the Institute of Cornish Studies, who presents a preliminary account of his excavations at Tintagel. He discusses the island's history as a natural stronghold, its association with legends like King Mark, Tristan, and Isolde, and archaeological findings related to post-Roman occupation, including evidence of Christian practices and possible links to the 5th and 6th centuries AD.
• Rituals and Rites at Cornish Sites: Written by Cheryl Straffon, this article delves into the use of ancient sites for ritual and religious purposes, drawing on archaeological reports, folklore, and the findings of Earth Mysteries researchers. It explores legends associated with sites like the Cheesewring and the Merry Maidens, suggesting connections to pagan practices, moon worship, and the significance of the number nine.
• Quartz stones on Bodmin Moor: An article by Chris Jenkins.
• Guide to Stone Circles (Bodmin Moor): A guide to stone circles located on Bodmin Moor.
• The Dragon: myth or mystery?: An article by Su Bayfield exploring the mythological and possibly real aspects of dragons in Cornish lore.
• Cornish giants in the landscape: An article by Tony Roberts.
• Book review: A review of a book related to the magazine's themes.
• Noticeboard: Information on upcoming events and publications.
• The Pipers Tune: Likely a folklore or legend piece.

Editorial Stance and Community Events

The magazine highlights the activities of the Meyn Mamvro/Cornish Earth Mysteries Group, detailing their outdoor events. These include a dowsing day at Heather Farm, a Maypole Dance on Carn Bosavern, a 'Three Wells Walk' visiting sacred wells at Sancreed, Carn Euny, and Madron, and a 'Ley Walk' around the Merry Maidens area. The August Full Moon walk along the Tinners Way, culminating at Chûn Castle, is described as a breathtaking finale to the summer.

The magazine also features advertisements for 'Visions and Journeys', an art gallery and shop in St. Just, and 'Barry Millard Celtic Art', offering a Celtic Calendar for 1991. The exhibitions listed include 'Granitescapes' by Kurt Jackson and 'Paintings of Penwith'.

Archaeological and Historical Insights

Professor Charles Thomas's article on Tintagel provides detailed archaeological insights, discussing the island's use from the late Roman period through to the medieval castle built by Richard Earl of Cornwall. He posits that the parish churchyard might also be a sacred site dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries AD. The article mentions ongoing research and excavations, with a call for contributions and an announcement of a forthcoming longer excavation season in 1991.

The 'Rituals and Rites' article by Cheryl Straffon emphasizes the ritualistic and religious purposes of ancient sites, citing Aubrey Burl. It connects astronomical events, pagan practices, and folklore to these sites. The article discusses legends of druid-priests, the significance of the number nine in rituals, and the potential connection of fairies to ancient tomb builders.

Further articles touch upon the discovery of menhirs and the importance of quartz in ritualistic practices, with examples from various Cornish sites like Harlyn Bay, the Hurlers stone circle, and St. Eval. The unusual orientation of bodies in a Bronze Age burial cemetery at Harlyn Bay, facing magnetic north, is noted as a significant finding related to the earth's magnetic properties.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an interest in Cornwall's unique heritage, focusing on ancient sites, megalithic structures, folklore, and earth mysteries. There is a strong emphasis on local history, paganism, and the spiritual or energetic qualities of the landscape. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocacy for the preservation of these sites and a deep engagement with the pre-Christian and early Christian past of Cornwall. The magazine encourages community involvement in exploring and understanding these ancient legacies.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, number 13, published in Autumn-Winter 1990, is a special edition focusing on ancient British sites, folklore, and mythology. The magazine features articles on Cornish stone circles, the pervasive myth of the dragon, and legends of giants in the landscape. The publication is dedicated to the memory of Tony Roberts, a leading figure in the Earth Mysteries field.

Articles

Ritual and Offerings in Ancient Cornwall (Page 1)

This article, accompanied by photographs by Cheryl Straffon, speculates on the beliefs and practices of ancient peoples in Cornwall, particularly concerning 'soul-stones' and offerings. Aubrey Burl suggests that stones might have symbolized the moon and the spirits of the dead, while others propose they were used for their piezoelectric qualities. The article notes that quartz was believed to have protective powers and was often placed with the dead during the Bronze Age. Other offerings found at sites like Gûn Rith and Obadiah's Barrow include beach pebbles, possibly for invoking sea goddesses. Prehistoric remains on Nor-Nor are linked to a sea goddess cult. The discovery of axe and arrowheads in barrows suggests ritual significance, with Cornish axes being a thriving industry. The axe heads carved on the Centre stone of Boscawen-un Circle are highlighted as an indication of the local importance of this cult. Other grave goods found in Scilly entrance graves include pottery, urns, glass beads, hammer stones, and bronze fragments. Ian Cooke reconstructs ancient rituals involving skulls, animal bones, fire, water, quartz, fertile soil, and coloured ochres, along with sound, light, shade, body painting, and decoration. The article concludes that ritual was integral to the lives of megalithic ancestors, unlocking understanding of their world.

Quartz Stones on Bodmin Moor (Pages 2-6)

Written by Chris Jenkins, this section explores ancient sites on Bodmin Moor, focusing on stone circles and their potential functions. Jenkins suggests that sites like the standing stone at Trehudreth Downs (SX1243 7281) might be chambered tombs rather than simple standing stones, possibly aligning with cairns and other stones. He notes that many small mounds on the hill appear to contain quartz slabs, suggesting they are prehistoric structures and that the quartz was significant, possibly indicating Neolithic construction. Jenkins argues that these simple structures are as important as larger monuments like 'Silbury Hills' and that their patterns might be generators of energy. The article then details various stone circles on Bodmin Moor, dividing them into areas north and south of the A30. Sites discussed include the Trippet Stones, Stripple Stones, Leaze, King Arthur's Downs Circles, Stannon, Louden Hill, Fernacre, Leskernick North and South, and Nine Stones. Astronomical alignments, particularly to midsummer sunrise/sunset and midwinter moonrise/moonset, are frequently noted. The article also mentions ley lines and magnetic anomalies at some sites. The Hurlers, a triple circle, is described as the fitting end to the Bodmin Moor exploration, with a floor of quartz crystals discovered during excavation. The article concludes by suggesting that the detailed astronomical use of these circles forces a re-evaluation of our understanding of their builders.

The Dragon Myth or Mystery? (Pages 7-9)

Authored by Su Bayfield, this three-part article delves into the global significance of the dragon myth. It traces the dragon's presence in creation myths worldwide, from ancient Mesopotamia and the Bible to Chinese and Celtic traditions. The dragon is often depicted as the Primal Mother, representing the forces of chaos and order, light and darkness. The article explains the dragon's symbolism, including its association with cyclical nature, energy, and the Earth's natural energies. The Chinese concept of the dragon as the controller of life-force and the principles of Yin and Yang are discussed, along with its role in fertility cycles. The article then explores the dragon in British folklore and its connection to ancient sites. John Michell is quoted comparing British geomantic principles to those of China. The 'Dragon Line' in Cornwall, a series of ten sites, is described. The Christian Church's reinterpretation of the dragon as an evil entity, with saints like Michael battling it, is examined. The article notes the presence of dragon carvings in Cornish churches, possibly symbolizing the capture of pagan power. It also discusses Cornish May Day customs, such as the 'Obby 'Oss of Padstow and the Helston Furry Dance, which are linked to fertility and the dragon legend. The red dragon is presented as a symbol of pride and glory in Celtic countries, with its historical significance in distinguishing Pagan and Christian factions. The article concludes by emphasizing the dragon's enduring role as a reminder of inherited wisdom.

Cornish Giants in the Landscape (Pages 10-13)

This two-part article, by Tony Roberts, explores the presence of giants in British folklore and their connection to the landscape. Roberts, who passed away shortly before this issue was published, was a prominent figure in the Earth Mysteries field. The article posits that memories of giants are woven into the British landscape, conjuring 'geomythic patterns'. Numerous megalithic structures are attributed to giants, and the landscape itself is often likened to a dreaming entity. The article highlights that legends of giants are most prevalent in the west of Britain, particularly Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Wales. These legends recount the exploits of giants in landscape engineering, magical practice, building, warfare, and religion. Giants are associated with ancient relics like earth-works, mounds, and standing stones. Mountains and hills are often named after them, such as 'Giant's Leap' and 'Giant's Grave'. Many of these sites, later sanctified by Druids and Christians, have maintained a continuous religious character for millennia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Meyn Mamvro revolve around ancient British history, archaeology, folklore, and mythology, with a particular focus on Cornwall and the Bodmin Moor region. There is a strong emphasis on 'Earth Mysteries,' exploring the energetic and spiritual significance of ancient sites, astronomical alignments, and natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of reverence for ancient cultures and their practices, seeking to understand their worldview through a combination of archaeological evidence, folklore, and intuitive interpretation. The magazine promotes a holistic view of history, connecting ancient beliefs with modern concepts of energy and consciousness. The inclusion of articles on dragons and giants suggests an interest in archetypal symbolism and its manifestation in cultural narratives and landscape features. The publication also seems to advocate for the preservation and understanding of these ancient sites and the wisdom they represent.

Meyn Mamvro issue 13, published in Autumn-Winter 1990, is a magazine focused on earth mysteries, archaeology, and paganism, with a particular emphasis on Cornwall's rich legendary and historical landscape. The issue features articles exploring ancient myths, geomancy, and the interpretation of archaeological sites.

Giants and Geomancy in Cornwall

The lead article, "The memory of the giant," explores the pervasive legends of giants throughout Cornwall, particularly in the Land's End, St. Ives, and Penzance areas. It posits that these legends are intertwined with geomancy, the artificial structuring of the landscape. A specific tale from Gorran Haven near St. Austell recounts the legend of a giant who created a large earthwork in one night. This giant, known as 'Thica Vosa' or 'Hack and Cast,' was eventually killed by a local doctor who tricked him into being bled to death. The nearby promontory known as 'Deadman' or 'Dodman' is named after this giant. The article interprets the legend geomythically, suggesting the earthwork represents 'magic' (geomancy), the giant was a ruler, and his death was sacrificial. The association with 'Dodman' is linked to the surveyor/technician of megalithic culture-bearers, and the plant ivy is noted for its pagan and witchcraft connections. The author laments the crude retelling of such tales, which belies their underlying seriousness, but emphasizes that mythology retains a poetic truth.

Another significant piece delves into the legends surrounding St. Michael's Mount. The Mount is described as a prominent conical hill off the coast near Marazion. According to legend, two giants, a husband and wife named Cormoran and Cormelian, constructed the mount by carrying huge blocks of white granite. The story details Cormelian's attempt to ease her labor by collecting greenstone, which angered Cormoran, leading him to kick her and break her apron strings, causing the rock to fall. This event is linked to a solitary greenstone rock at the start of the causeway, known as Chapel Rock. The article highlights the emphasis on white granite, noting its association with quartz and its perceived magical and electromagnetic properties. The 'broken apron strings' motif is identified as common in giant-lore across cultures. The legend also mentions the discovery of a giant skeleton buried within the hilltop church, which was rebuilt in the fourteenth century on older foundations. This skeleton, measuring about eight feet tall, is thought to be Cormoran's. The issue notes that the Christianization of St. Michael's Mount has not erased its pagan sanctity and giant imagery.

Book Review: Cornwall's Archaeological Heritage

A book review of "Cornwall's Archaeological Heritage" by Nicholas Johnson & Peter Rose is presented. While acknowledging the booklet's up-to-date research and coverage of 88 accessible sites, the reviewer expresses reservations about its introductory essay. The reviewer criticizes the reluctance to attribute public performance of ceremonial and ritual to megalithic sites, dismissing standing stones as mere markers. It is argued that this interpretation contradicts ley and astro-archaeological research, citing Ian Cooke's work on fogous being oriented to solar events. The reviewer laments the exclusion of the relationship between ritual monuments and the seasonal round, and the lack of consideration for how ancient peoples viewed the earth as a living being. The review concludes that while the guide is useful, it lacks real perception until archaeologists can embrace a broader understanding of the sites' meanings.

Events and Noticeboard

The "Noticeboard" section lists various groups and their activities, including the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group planning talks in Penzance, the West Penwith Pagan Group meeting for discussions and workshops, and the Mid-Cornwall Pagan Network aiming to bring people together for sharing and learning. The "Events Diary" details upcoming lectures and classes on topics such as Stonehenge, Cornish landscape, Neolithic archaeology, and women's studies in archaeology, primarily in Cornwall.

The Pipers Tune

An extract from the London Earth Mysteries Journal, titled "The Pipers Tune," describes a field trip to West Penwith, Cornwall. The account details visits to sites like Zennor Quoit, Tregeseal stone circle, Chûn Castle, Chûn Quoit, Mên-an-Tol, and Boscawen-un Circle. The author notes the challenging weather conditions and the atmospheric quality of the sites. The extract touches on the feeling of sites being 'dead' at certain times and the sense of being outsiders in the landscape, despite the partial yielding to exploration. The piece concludes with a reflection on the enduring mystery of the land and the feeling of being '20th Century townies'.

Midnight Books and Other Listings

A listing for "Midnight Books" offers secondhand books on paranormal subjects, UFOs, Fortean phenomena, and earth mysteries. The magazine also includes a comprehensive list of "Exchange Magazines," featuring numerous publications related to Earth Mysteries, Sacred Sites, Paganism, and other esoteric topics from the UK and USA, along with their subscription details. It also lists "The Quay Bookshop" in Penzance, offering a wide range of books on philosophy, esoteric subjects, and earth mysteries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of mythology, folklore, and archaeology, particularly in the context of Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on interpreting ancient sites not just as historical artifacts but as places imbued with ritualistic, geomantic, and possibly energetic significance. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and less conventional approach to understanding these sites, often criticizing mainstream archaeological perspectives for their perceived limitations. The editorial stance seems to favor a blend of scholarly inquiry with an appreciation for the esoteric and the 'earth mysteries' perspective, encouraging readers to engage with these concepts and local traditions.