Meyn Mamvro - No 025 - Autumn 1994

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 25, Autumn 1994, is a magazine dedicated to exploring the ancient stones, sacred sites, earth energies, and folklore of Cornwall. The cover features the title 'meyN maMVRO' with the subtitle 'ancient stones and sacred sites in cornwall,' alongside an illustration of a stone circle and a central artwork depicting a multi-headed figure. The issue is priced at £1.50.

Contents and Key Articles

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles, including an editorial, reader contributions, news, and in-depth features. Notable articles include:

• "The Old Stones of Lamorna Plateau" by David Stringer: This article investigates a significant number of stones in the Lamorna Cove area, many of which are largely unrecorded and potentially overlooked by antiquarians. It discusses their possible functions as standing stones or rubbing posts and their alignments, referencing previous research by John Michell and John Barnett.
• "Fowey - a Goddess place?" by David Stringer: This piece explores the prehistory of Fowey, examining potential sites sacred to the Goddess. It delves into the etymology of place names and discusses how ancient sites were often situated near springs, linking them to pre-Christian Goddess worship.
• "Guide to Goddess sites": This section provides a guide to various sites in Cornwall associated with the Goddess.
• "Spirit Paths in Cornwall" by Paul Devereux: This article likely explores ancient routes and their spiritual significance within Cornwall.
• "Haunted Highways" by Cheryl Straffon: This feature delves into the folklore and mysterious aspects of Cornwall's routes.
• "Myths & Legends of Cornwall + competition": This section offers a collection of local myths and legends, accompanied by a competition.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The editorial on page 3 discusses the importance of protecting Cornwall's ancient sites from neglect and indifference. It highlights the case of the Eathorne menhir, which was damaged and subsequently moved, emphasizing the vulnerability of these sites to landowners. The magazine also announces a price increase for future issues, from £1.50 to £1.70 for the cover price and from £5 to £5.50 for annual subscriptions, to cover rising printing costs. Meyn Mamvro has been in existence for 8 years.

The publisher is Meyn Mamvro, with Cheryl Straffon serving as the Editor. Contributions are welcome and should be sent to her at 51 Carn Bosavern, St Just, Penzance, Cornwall TR19 7QX. The magazine is available in various outlets across Cornwall and England.

News and Group Activities

Page 4 features a "News" section covering activities of the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group. This includes the 6th annual Maypole Dance on Carn Bosavern, the 6th annual Three Wells Walk, and an investigation day at the Merry Maidens stone circle. It also mentions an Earth Mysteries investigation at Merry Maidens, filmed for a U.S.A. television documentary. The news also includes information about the Devon Earth Mysteries Group and their magazine "Wisht Maen."

Page 7 reports on the restoration of the Holy Well of St.Neot at Poundstock, made possible by a Rural Action Grant. However, it also details problems at St.Breock Downs, where a large windfarm has been built despite opposition from local councils and individuals, impacting a sensitive area with Bronze Age monuments. The section also highlights Kenny May's efforts to restore Carwynnen Quoit, a neolithic chambered tomb, which has received permission from English Heritage but faces a significant excavation cost.

Lost and Found Stones

Page 6 presents "Lost and Found" items. Rory Te' reports the discovery of a holed stone near Pendeen fogou. The article also discusses a lost stone row at Longstone Farm, east of Lezant, which was destroyed before being properly recorded. A humorous Q&A section clarifies that a standing stone on Kit Hill, initially identified as such, is actually a natural rock formation, though the CAU suggests it may have been venerated anyway.

Reader Contributions

"Readers Write" on page 5 includes contributions from:

• Kris Bond (Redruth): Notes a potential midsummer sunrise alignment running through various sites in Cornwall and beyond.
• Richard & Pat Bass (Derbyshire): Express disappointment over the closure of St.Nectan's Glen Waterfall to the public, citing a notice stating it is on private land.
• Myra Wendy (Delabole): Shares experiences of receiving written messages while at ancient sites and asks if others have had similar encounters or seen fairies.
• Adam Bear (Pendeen): Seeks individuals interested in esoteric, magical, and shamanistic beliefs to form a group in Penwith.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the study and preservation of Cornwall's ancient sites and folklore. There is a strong emphasis on Earth Mysteries, Goddess worship, and the spiritual significance of the landscape. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of protecting these sites from modern development and neglect, often expressing frustration with official archaeological bodies (CAU, English Heritage) and government decisions. The magazine acts as a platform for researchers, enthusiasts, and local communities to share information, discoveries, and concerns regarding Cornwall's rich heritage. The recurring theme is the connection between the land, its ancient inhabitants, and spiritual beliefs, particularly those related to the Goddess.

MEYN MAMVRO | Issue 25 | Autumn 1994

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, a Cornish pagan magazine, features articles exploring the rich tapestry of ancient beliefs, sacred sites, and folklore in Cornwall. The content delves into pre-Christian traditions, Goddess worship, mythic routes, and accounts of spectral phenomena on old roads.

Pagan Sacred Sites and Place Names on the Peninsula

The article "Looking at the map" examines two significant clues to pagan sacred sites on a Cornish peninsula: MENA-BILLY, possibly related to standing stones or stone circles, and COVINGTON WOODS on St. Catherine's point at the end of Lover's Lane. The name 'Covington Woods' is explored for its potential Saxon or Wiccan origins, suggesting the headland above the sea was an ideal position for moon rituals and reverence for the sea Mother Goddess, Mara. The original purpose of 'Lover's Lane' is theorized to have been a track for devotees to Goddess rituals, potentially leading from sacred groves of Lankelli and the settlement of Langurthou. The atmosphere of the headland, with views towards the moon, Orion, and Sirius, is felt to be conducive to such purposes. Sites in the Menabilly Estate might have been linked with Polkerris and the western side of the peninsula, mirroring the parish structure of having its own sites.

The Goddess Tour of Cornwall

Cheryl Straffon recounts the "Goddess Tour of Cornwall" undertaken in the summers of 1993 and 1994. Organized by singer/songwriter Julie Felix, the tours involved groups of women journeying around sacred sites in England, Wales, and Cornwall to discover the Goddess in the landscape. The tour began at Rocky Valley near Tintagel, with a walk to ancient mazes carved in rock walls, symbolizing a journey into the inner self. The journey continued to West Penwith, described as an ancient, wild, and elemental landscape. Sites visited included Sancreed Well for a blessing ritual, Carn Euny Courtyard House settlement for meditation, and the Merry Maidens stone circle where women danced a spiral dance. Madron Well was a site for hanging cloth offerings, and at Mên-an-Tol, participants crawled through the holed stone chanting. The tour concluded with a visit to Women's Land and a landscape maze, culminating in a candlelit ceremony inside Boleigh Fogou, described as the 'body of the Goddess herself,' fostering a deep connection with the earth and each other.

Goddess Sites in Cornwall

This section explores Cornwall's connection to Goddess worship, noting the absence of direct Goddess figurines or place names but highlighting a wealth of legend and folklore. It discusses how ancient peoples viewed the earth as imbued with the Goddess's spirit. Stone circles, such as the Merry Maidens and Nine Maidens, are examined for their alignment with 'holy hill' sites and their potential connection to ancient rituals involving dancing women honoring the moon Goddess. The significance of 19 stones in many circles is noted, relating to the moon's 18.6-year cycle.

Holed Stones

Holed stones are discussed for their traditions associated with healing. The Mên-an-Tol stone is described as a place where children were passed through for healing, and it's considered a possible entrance to the womb of mother earth. Other holed stones, like those at Tregeseal and near the Merry Maidens, are suggested as sites where women and children may have formed lines to pass psychic or spiritual energy.

Fogous

Fogous, unique to Cornwall, are described as potential Iron Age versions of burial chambers, possibly based on ancestral memories of cave-dwelling people who worshipped the Goddess. Cornish fogous are oriented towards the sunrise and have associated folklore. Boleigh Fogou is linked to a legend of witches holding a sabbat, and Pendeen Fogou has a legend of a woman in white, possibly a folk memory of an Earth or Moon Goddess.

Wells

Ancient peoples used wells for healing and divination, integrating with the Goddess as the spirit of the universe. Later, these spirits were re-christened after saints. Wells were visited by maidens for rituals, and offerings like 'clouties' (cloth pieces) were hung for healing. Specific wells mentioned include Madron Well (possibly named after Goddess Modron), St. Warna's Well (associated with a Sea Goddess), Fenton Luna well ('well of the moon'), the well at Roche Rock (ebbing and flowing with the tide), and Holywell Bay well (in a cave). Other wells named after Goddesses include one in Whitstone (resembling Goddess Anu) and St.Bridget's Well (named after Goddess Bride).

Saints and Mermaids

Many Celtic saints in Cornwall may have originally been Goddesses. Legends associated with figures like St. Agnes, St. Buryana, St. Newlyna, St. Columb, and St. Senara hint at pagan origins. Cornish legends of mermaids or 'merrymaids' are suggested as possible memories of sea-goddesses, and tales like Tristan & Iseult might relate to Goddesses of the Land.

Spirit Paths in Cornwall

Paul Devereux's article "Spirit Paths in Cornwall" explores churchways, which were medieval communications between churches and farmsteads, also known as 'death roads' or 'corpse ways.' However, elements like unusually straight lines, extension to prehistoric sites, and folklore suggest deeper, pre-Christian roots. Cornwall is rich in these remnants, with granite styles, field names, and old crosses marking their courses. "Coffin lines" is a term used for these churchways, hinting at alignments rather than just tracks. Chapel Street in Penzance is cited as a segment of a churchpath that aligns with Madron Church and the Neolithic dolmen of Lanyon Quoit, resembling a Watkins ley line. A legend about a changeling under a stile hints at unexpected pagan associations with churchways.

Craig Weatherhill's work is cited, tracing a churchway near St. Ives that passes three parish churches and is associated with wayside crosses, suggesting a transition from pagan to Christian traditions. This route is linked to witchcraft and older religions. The churchway from Rospletha to St. Levan's church is described as atmospheric and mythic, with a legend about grass growing greener where the priest trod. The site of St. Levan's church itself is believed to have been built with supernatural aid, and a split boulder in the churchyard, Christianized as St. Levan's Stone, has a prophecy about the end of the world.

Haunted Highways

Cheryl Straffon's article "Haunted Highways" discusses tales of strange and ghostly sightings on old tracks and roads in Cornwall, many featuring straight lines, possibly connected to ancient ghost roads or spirit paths. Reports include phantom hoofbeats heard on old roads, sightings of a man on horseback at inns, and phantom coaches and horses. Specific ghostly encounters include a vanishing figure on the Bodmin-Camelford road, a disappearing cyclist, and a ghostly blacksmith. The faceless monk-like ghost in Little Petherick is also mentioned. Other sightings involve ghosts on paths superseded by modern roads, such as Dorothy Dinglet near Launceston and William Penvoun, the vicar of Poundstock. The ghost of Kate Penfound is said to appear at Penfound Manor on April 26th.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring presence of ancient pagan beliefs and Goddess worship in Cornwall, the significance of the landscape as a sacred space, and the rich vein of folklore and legend that permeates the region. The magazine highlights the continuity of these traditions, often overlaid or reinterpreted by Christianity, and explores the spectral and uncanny aspects of Cornwall's ancient routes and sites. The editorial stance appears to be one of uncovering and celebrating this hidden heritage, presenting it through scholarly articles and personal accounts.

Title: Meyn Mamvro
Issue: 25
Date: Autumn 1994
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0966-5897

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, dated Autumn 1994, delves deeply into the rich tapestry of Cornish folklore, myths, and legends. It features a prominent review of the book "Myths and Legends of Cornwall" by Craig Weatherhill and Paul Devereux, which serves as a central theme for much of the content. The magazine explores various aspects of Cornish supernatural lore, including ancient paths, spirit roads, ghost sightings, and mysterious phenomena.

Articles and Features

Ancient Paths and Spirit Roads

The issue begins by exploring the concept of underground passages and ancient paths, suggesting they might be folk memories of ghost paths or ley lines. An anecdote recounts a sighting of miners with old-fashioned hats disappearing into a hedge, a phenomenon reported by multiple witnesses. The article links these occurrences to ancient spirit paths or ghost roads that can be triggered in certain circumstances, particularly for individuals with paranormal abilities. The author invites readers to share their own experiences.

Animal Sightings and Geomantic Significance

Three interesting animal sightings are presented as hints of the geomantic significance of ancient paths:

• Ghostly White Hare: Reputed to run from Talland to Looe and vanish at the Jolly Sailor Inn, believed to be the spirit of a girl who died by suicide. This legend may hark back to a pre-Christian spirit path, as hares were sacred to the Goddess.
• Spectral Dog: Seen at the old Dog and Dragon restaurant in Porthtowan, often on May Eve (Beltane). This relates to an old legend of a dragon that haunted the neighborhood until driven off by a dog, possibly representing pre-Christian telluric currents.
• Eerie Fox-like Creature: Seen on the walls of an old ruined chapel near Tregerthen, between Zennor and Wicca. Craig Weatherhill comments that this stretch of path retains a strong sense of otherworldliness.

Book Review: Myths and Legends of Cornwall

The bulk of the magazine is dedicated to a chapter-by-chapter overview of "Myths and Legends of Cornwall" by Craig Weatherhill and Paul Devereux (£6.95).

• Chapter 1: The Giants: Discusses giants of Cornish cliff castles and hill forts, potentially echoes of Iron Age chieftains or earlier Gods and Goddesses. Examples include the giants of St. Michael's Mount and Cormoran.
• Chapter 2: The Races of Faerie: Explores Cornish faerie folk, including the piskies of East Cornwall, the wilder spirits of the west, the 'little people' (pobel vean) of the moors, the goblin-like Spriggans guarding giant's treasure, and the mine-dwelling Knockers. Bucca, a sea-spirit, is also mentioned.
• Chapter 3: The Saints: An alphabetical listing of Cornwall's saints, many linked to Celtic myths. Examples include St. Endellion, St. Gwinear, St. Wylloc, Gerant, and St. Petroc.
• Chapter 4: Church Legends: Covers ancient origins of Cornish churches, such as St. Buryan's oval 'lan', and legends of rectors using occult symbols, like Parson Woods of Ladock.
• Chapter 5: Legends of the Mines: Details supernatural inhabitants of old mines, including white hares forewarning of accidents and ghosts of dead miners. Mentions ancient mines like Ding Dong and Ballowall.
• Chapter 6: Mystery Lights: Examines strange lights (or faery lights) seen at sites like The Gump, Carn Kenidjack, and Ballowall Barrow, potentially unexplained natural phenomena or 'earth-lights'.
• Chapter 7: Legends of Arthur: Recounts stories of Arthur's birth at Tintagel, the role of Gorlois and Igraine, and the association of places like St. Nectan's Kieve with the Grail Knights' quest.
• Chapter 8: Witchcraft: Focuses on the parishes of Zennor and St. Levan, known for witches who met at Burnt Downs. It describes three types of white witches: Charmers, Wise Men/Women, and pellars/Conjurers.
• Chapter 9: Ghosts and Demons: Categorizes spirits into 'bucca-gwidn' (benign) and 'bucca-du' (malevolent), mentioning Tregeagle, Nancy Trenoweth, and Frank Lanyon. It also notes 'lane-dogs' in East Cornwall and legends of the devil on Carn Kenidjack.
• Chapter 10: Sacred Waters: Discusses the significance of natural wells and springs for healing and oracular properties, mentioning Madron Well and Venton Bebibell.
• Chapter 11: Lost Lands: Covers stories of lost lands like Lyonesse, Langarrow (covered by sand at Penhale Sands), and Conetconia (a buried town at Gwithian).
• Chapter 12: Legends of the Sea: Mentions the sea-god Bucca and the possible origin of mermaids from marine goddesses. It also notes sightings of supernatural or 'death ships'.
• Chapter 13: Monumental Mysteries: Discusses legends surrounding megaliths, including the bronze-age barrow at Tuban Broaze and rocking stones like the Twelve O'Clock stone.
• Chapter 14: Leys, Churchways, Spirit Lines & Mythic Routes: Briefly mentioned with a reference to pages 15-17.

The Pipers Tune

This section presents preliminary results of an archaeological excavation at the A30 Indian Queens-Fraddon by-pass scheme. The most interesting finding was the Bronze Age Little Gaverigan Barrow, which was built on a pre-existing sacred space defined by a circular ditch. The site appears to have been used for a considerable period before the barrow was constructed, with evidence of pits and post holes possibly for stone menhirs or timber posts, suggesting a 'totemic function'. The enclosure was later deliberately abandoned, and a turf mound was built in the center. A pit on the mound contained the upper half of an urn, possibly representing a votive offering. Nearby, the Highgate Ritual Enclosure and cup-marked slate suggest a significant ritual center.

Archaeology and Landscape Preservation

An article highlights an interview with County Archaeologist Nick Johnson, featured in the Daily Telegraph, discussing the rapid disappearance of Cornwall's ancient landscape. Johnson explains how modern farming practices have 'disassembled' the landscape, making it difficult for archaeologists to 'read' its history. The article cites examples like Chysauster, an Iron Age village near Penzance, where modern fields have encroached and field patterns have been bulldozed. The Council for British Archaeology's work is mentioned, along with a plea for better conservation grants, control of tree planting, and review of planning law to protect the vanishing ancient landscape.

Book Reviews (Continued)

Several other book reviews are included:

• "ANGELS & GODDESSES: Celtic Christianity & Paganism in Ancient Britain" by Michael Howard (£9.95): Praised for its detailed examination of the interaction between early paganism and Celtic Christianity, particularly in Celtic lands.
• "STONE CROSSES IN MID CORNWALL" by Andrew Langdon (£4.95): A guide to Celtic crosses in the region, the second volume in a series.
• "AT THE CENTRE OF THE WORLD" by John Michell (£14.95): Discusses omphalos or ritual centers, with a less convincing section on Cornwall. It mentions the omphalos at Lanivet and Sancreed Church.
• "NAENIA CORNUBIAE - THE CROMLECHS AND TUMULI OF CORNWALL" by William Copeland Borlaise (£9.95): A facsimile reprint of an 1872 book.
• "SHAMANISM AND THE MYSTERY LINES" by Paul Devereux (£7.95): A comprehensive account of spirit lines and roads of the dead worldwide, relevant to an article by Devereux in this issue.

Exchange Magazines and Paganism Resources

The magazine lists various exchange magazines related to "Earth Mysteries & Sacred Sites" and "Paganism," providing contact details and subscription prices. These include "The Ley Hunter," "Northern Earth," "Mercian Mysteries," "The Cauldron," "Wood and Water," "Dalriada," "Deosil Dance," and "Moonshine."

Noticeboard

The noticeboard section lists upcoming events and groups:

• Cornish Earth Mysteries Group: Talks on Runes and Connecting with Ancient Sites in Penzance.
• Research & Enlightenment Centre: Monthly talks and discussions in St. Austell, including one on the "Pre-Christian Origin of the Cornish Saints."
• Cornish Crop Circles Group: Site visits and sessions.
• Cornwall New Age Festival: A four-day event in Perranporth with talks, demonstrations, and workshops.
• Harmony Pottery: Wheel of the Year celebrations.
• The Wellbeing Centre: Regular workshops and events in Illogan.
• Caer Rosemerryn: Workshops, including "Hidden Chambers."

Advertisements

An advertisement for "Adventur-ine," a shop selling gifts of healing, love, magic, and beauty, including crystals, incense, and books, located in Penzance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Meyn Mamvro are deeply rooted in folklore, mythology, ancient history, and the supernatural. There is a strong focus on Cornwall's unique heritage, exploring its legends, sacred sites, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt an open and inquisitive stance towards these subjects, encouraging reader participation and sharing of experiences. The editorial stance seems to favor the preservation of ancient landscapes and traditions, as evidenced by the article on archaeological concerns. The emphasis on pre-Christian beliefs, paganism, and earth mysteries suggests a niche audience interested in alternative spirituality and historical mysteries. The inclusion of numerous book reviews and listings of related organizations and events further solidifies its position within the earth mysteries and pagan community.