Meyn Mamvro - No 030 - Spring 1996

Magazine Overview

Title: Meyn Mamvro
Issue: No. 30
Date: Spring-Summer 1996
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1.70

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, a magazine focused on ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall, delves into various aspects of earth mysteries, archaeology, and folklore. The cover features a striking illustration of a stone circle under a night sky, with prominent articles on Ian Cooke's review of the Channel 4 'Time Team' program concerning fogous, Charles Thomas on the Boslow Stone, and topics such as mermaids, witchcraft, and alignments.

Contents and Key Articles

Editorial

The editorial sets a tone of engagement with contemporary archaeological practices and their intersection with earth mysteries research. It highlights a perceived shift in archaeological thinking towards ritual landscapes and ceremonial functions, aligning more closely with the perspectives of Earth Mysteries researchers.

Cornish Earth Mysteries Group (CEMG) Activities

• The magazine details the 6th season of Autumn/Winter talks organized by the CEMG in Penzance. These included:
• "Megaliths and Meanings" by Craig Weatherhill, who discussed the original Cornish language meanings of site names and how they have changed over time.
• "Reconstructing the Bronze Age" by Jacqui Wood, an experimental archaeologist who shared her work on recreating Bronze Age huts, including aspects of lifestyle, food, and textiles.
• "A Circle for Calanais" by Jill Smith, an artist and poet from the Isle of Lewis, who presented on the stone circle at Callanish.
• The annual visit to Chûn Quoit for the winter solstice alignment, followed by storytelling.

• In the New Year, talks continued with:
• Eddie Prynn on "Megalithic Mysticism", sharing insights into the power of stones and people's reactions.
• Jo May of CAER on "Fogou", discussing the Boleigh fogou and sharing channeled information and spiritual experiences.
• Cheryl Straffon and Caeia March on "Celtic Goddesses", detailing their research trip across England.
• Kelvin Jones on "Witchcraft in Cornwall", focusing on wise women, the tradition of charms and cures, and the case of Tamsin Blight.

Outdoor Events for Summer 1996

A schedule of upcoming site visits and trips is provided, including walks to sacred wells, visits to standing stones, a reconstructed Bronze-Age settlement, and legend walks.

Lost and Found: New Standing Stones

This section reports on the discovery of new prehistoric standing stones. Following previous reports of stones at Treburrick and Ennis Farm, another menhir-shaped stone was found at Newham Farm near Sancreed. This stone, measuring 6'4" high, was found in a hedge and is described as having a shaped side and a curved face. Its position suggests it may have been moved when the field was lowered in the 1920s. The article also notes other standing stones visible from the site and a potential ley line connection.

New Type of Megalithic Site Discovered: The Pseudo-Quoit

Archaeologist Peter Herring has identified a new type of megalithic marker on Bodmin Moor, termed a 'pseudo-quoit'. Located on Leskernick Hill, this structure consists of a flat stone supported by two boulders. It is positioned to allow the midsummer sun to set over it, suggesting it functioned as a landscape calendar. The discovery is linked to previous research on Bodmin Moor's alignments and the idea of ancient sites serving as calendars.

Total Eclipse of the Sun: Review of 'Time Team'

Ian Cooke reviews Channel 4's 'Time Team' program, "The Secrets of the Fogou," which focused on Boleigh fogou. Cooke expresses disappointment, criticizing the program for its approach, which he felt was an exercise in demolishing 'alternative' credibility. He notes that the program focused on finding an extension to the fogou and evidence of settlement, unearthing Iron Age pottery and a round house. However, he criticizes the exclusion of information on solar alignments and mineral lodes, and the lack of acknowledgement of his own research. The review highlights that the program failed to advance knowledge of fogous beyond previous publications.

Readers Write

• This section features letters from readers:
• Rick Walker discusses the taboos in archaeology regarding clairvoyance, mysticism, and astrology, advocating for a synthesis of conventional and alternative perspectives.
• Aubrey Burl comments on the perceived gap between professional and alternative approaches, suggesting that in the center, conclusions often align.
• John Kennedy writes about Lower Leah Well, inquiring about its history and any devotional uses or cures associated with it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Meyn Mamvro consistently explores the intersection of archaeology, earth mysteries, and folklore, with a particular focus on Cornwall's ancient sites. There is a clear editorial stance that supports and validates the research conducted by Earth Mysteries practitioners, often positioning them as pioneers whose insights are gradually being accepted by mainstream archaeology. The magazine critiques what it perceives as the limitations and biases of conventional archaeology, particularly in its handling of topics like dowsing and ritualistic interpretations of ancient sites, as exemplified by the review of the 'Time Team' program. The emphasis on local discoveries, such as new standing stones and the pseudo-quoit, underscores a commitment to uncovering and disseminating knowledge about Cornwall's unique heritage. The inclusion of reader contributions further broadens the scope of discussion, reflecting a community engaged with these themes.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, number 30, published in Spring-Summer 1996, is dedicated to exploring the rich history, archaeology, and folklore of Cornwall. The magazine features articles on ancient sites, local legends, and historical beliefs, offering a deep dive into the unique cultural landscape of the region.

Iron Age Pub to Be Built!

The lead article reports on a controversial development at the Iron Age site of Penhale Round in Fraddon. A significant portion of the site has already been impacted by the construction of a new by-pass. Now, plans are underway to build a Whitbread Iron Age theme pub and a 40-bed motel. Despite some local opposition, developers express confidence, and suggestions for future developments are humorously solicited.

Own Your Own Iron Age Village!

Another article highlights the market listing of the Iron Age Courtyard House settlement village at Bosullow Trehillys in West Penwith. The site, which includes five courtyard houses, round houses, and a fogou, is being sold with 3.5 acres of land for approximately £50,000. The site was previously made out-of-bounds to visitors by its owner, John Lawry, with the backing of English Heritage, and it remains to be seen if the new owners will continue this policy.

Hilltop Fort Under Attack!

The ancient hill-fort of Carn Brea, a Neolithic and Bronze Age site near Redruth, is facing threats from erosion caused by visitors and their vehicles. A working group, including local councillors and the Kerrier Groundwork Trust, has been formed to create a Management Plan. This plan aims to control vehicle access by keeping them at the bottom of the hill and to manage the overgrown vegetation, while still allowing public access.

Cornwall's Ancient Sites Placed in Trust

Cornwall's Heritage Trust has entered into a five-year agreement with the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission to manage several of the Duchy's ancient sites. These include Dupath Well near Callington, the Hurlers stone circle at Minions, and Trethevey Quoit & King Doniert's stone near St.Cleer. The director of the Trust emphasizes the importance of local involvement in preserving these historic places.

Brane Barrow Transplant!

The entrance grave Brane Barrow, located near Carn Euny in West Penwith, has undergone renovation and reconstruction by the Cornwall Archaeological Unit, authorized by English Heritage. This site, previously suffering from erosion by cattle and gorse, has now been secured for the future.

The Boslow Stone

This detailed article by Professor Charles Thomas focuses on the Boslow (or Boslow Common) stone, an inscribed granite pillar located at St.Just, dating to approximately AD 700. The stone is noted for its rare attribute of still being in its original location. It features an inscription in 'book-hand' letters reading 'Taetuera', a peculiar human-like or forked cross shape, and a deeply cut equal-armed cross. The article discusses the deliberate placement of the inscription to be illuminated by the midday sun and the cross facing south. The stone is situated on a mound, likely covering an original stone-lined cist burial, making it a unique example of an untouched burial with a memorial still in place in Cornwall. The inscription's meaning is explored, suggesting a Primitive Cornish origin, likely commemorating a priest. The author stresses the importance of preserving this unique site.

Lesser-Known Sites in West Penwith

Raymond Cox explores several lesser-known ancient sites in the north-east area of West Penwith. He highlights the profusion of ancient sites in the region, many of which are infrequently visited. The article describes the Bishop's Head and Foot, a granite slab at a track intersection, formerly marked by a stone cross. It also details the Higher Kerrowe Well, a 'gem' located near a track, rising in a grotto within a sunken walled enclosure. The article also mentions the Mulfra Vean Courthouse Settlement and the Bodrifty Hut Settlement, an open, longer site with well-preserved Bronze Age dwellings. Finally, the Carfury Standing Stone is described as a beautiful and remote site, standing 10ft high in a low, undulating hedge.

Witchcraft in Cornwall: The Aftermath

This section, authored by Kelvin Jones, delves into the historical context of witchcraft in Cornwall, focusing on the period after the main persecutions. It discusses the varying conceptions of deities among practitioners, the influence of Christian concepts like the Devil, and the limited evidence for the Sabbat in English chronicles. The article suggests that the idea of witches flying on broomsticks is a commentator's invention and that some may have used hallucinogenic ointments. It notes that Cornwall appears to have had solitary witches or small groups, rather than large covens, and that accusations often targeted women from lower social strata. The piece highlights the patriarchal society's fear of women's independence and sexuality, linking it to prejudice against witchcraft.

The article further explores the idea of witchcraft as an ancient wisdom passed down through families. It describes accused individuals as often being undesirable neighbours, many possessing clairvoyant abilities and knowledge of healing. The decline of witch trials is noted, with the last execution in England in 1684 and the last conviction in 1712. However, folk fear persisted, and Methodism's influence in Cornwall is discussed in relation to ancient lore. John Wesley's diary entry from 1746 is quoted, describing a woman's experience of being 'bound' by Satan and her subsequent deliverance. The article suggests that 'new Christianity' acted to 'exorcise' perceived evil spirits. Belief in witchcraft continued into the 19th century, with instances of 'ill-wishing' and the use of protective charms like horseshoes. The text also details specific cases from the early 19th century, including a bewitched child and accusations of causing ill health and interfering with sexual relations. A case from 1841 in Tywardreath and another from 1887 involving epileptic fits are presented, illustrating the persistent fear and superstitions surrounding witchcraft.

Cornwall's Landscape Lion

Sheila Jeffries recounts her experience of receiving a vision of a 'Landscape Zodiac Lion' on the Lizard peninsula. This vision, channeled from an old woman named Matilda, outlines a shape formed by the landscape's features, including fields, lanes, paths, rivers, and ponds. Despite some issues with interpretation and an overtly Christian approach, the article finds the landscape alignments interesting. Jeffries describes the farmyard at Porthallow Vineyard as a sacred ground, emanating warmth and peace, and details her meditative experience there. The article then traces the 'Lion Line' and other alignments, such as the 'Dove Line' and 'The Path of the Shining Waters', which connect various ancient sites and natural features across Cornwall and into England.

Mermaids and Sea Goddesses

Cheryl Straffon explores the mythology of mermaids and sea goddesses in Cornwall. These creatures are depicted as powerful beings who control the seas and influence human destiny, rather than mere beauties. Examples include the mermaid at Lamorna who sang plaintively before bad weather and shipwrecks, and the mermaids at Seaton and Padstow who silted up harbours after being insulted. The article also recounts the legend of an old man named Luty who found a stranded mermaid and was granted three wishes, choosing the power to do good, break witchcraft spells, and charm away diseases. The mermaid Morvena attempts to lure Luty away, but he resists. Mermaids are presented as representing the Otherworld, akin to fairies and piskies, embodying the spirits of the world of Faery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently emphasizes the deep historical and mythological layers of Cornwall. There's a strong focus on archaeological preservation, with articles highlighting threats to ancient sites and efforts to protect them. Folklore and local legends, such as those concerning witchcraft and mermaids, are presented as integral parts of Cornish identity. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of celebrating and documenting these cultural elements, encouraging readers to appreciate and engage with Cornwall's unique heritage. The inclusion of articles on both ancient history and more esoteric topics like witchcraft and visions suggests an editorial interest in the intersection of the tangible past and the realm of belief and myth.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 30
Date: Spring-Summer 1996
Publisher: MEYN MAMVRO
Country: UK
ISSN: 0966-5897

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, a magazine focusing on earth mysteries, folklore, and paganism, features a deep dive into Cornish mermaid legends, explores Arthurian themes, and reviews several new books in these genres. It also includes personal accounts, archaeological findings, and a directory of related organizations and events.

Cornish Mermaid Legends

The issue begins by detailing the famous mermaid legend of Zennor, Cornwall. This legend tells of a mermaid who appears at the church, seduces the churchwarden's son, Matthew Trewella, and they both disappear into the sea. The legend is commemorated by a carving in Zennor church, which also features a plaque suggesting mermaids were originally pagan sea goddesses. The patron saint of Zennor, St.Senara, is presented as an example of how pagan goddesses were later Christianized, having been a pagan princess from Brittany.

The hamlet of Morvah is also discussed, with its name possibly linked to 'Morvech,' meaning sea-maidens. The article connects mermaids in folklore to the moon and the Goddess of love (Aphrodite), suggesting their shape-shifting into a fish-tail was an aid to escape the sun-god. The iconography of mermaids with mirrors and combs is interpreted as representing the full moon and its phases. A significant carving at Clonfert Abbey in Ireland is described, depicting a mermaid with a mirror and a circular object, possibly a sun or moon symbol, linking sea, moon, and goddess sexuality.

Further examples of water deities are explored, including river goddesses. The article notes that while not tolerated under Christianity, these deities often persisted by going 'underground' or into rivers and lakes. Examples include a mermaid in the River Lugg in Herefordshire who possessed the church bell, and a mermaid on the moors above Buxton and Leek in Staffordshire. These stories are presented as reflecting the conflict between Christianity and older pagan traditions, where goddesses were transformed into saints, giantesses, or mermaids.

The article emphasizes that belief in mermaids was not mere fancy but rooted in ancient traditions and respect for the power of nature, suggesting a connection to the 'Other World' that lies beyond human perception.

Personal Experience: Cerridwen's Cauldron

Jean Harris contributes a personal account of a strange experience at the ancient site of Boscawen-un circle. During a visit on her friend Miriam's birthday, Harris experienced a vision of a space-craft hovering over the site, looking down on a distressed cargo ship in Mount's Bay. Later, when Miriam was diagnosed with advanced cancer, Harris experienced a similar vision of a distressed ship, which she felt was a premonition. After Miriam's death, Harris had a vision of a brilliant light at Boscawen-un, which she interpreted as taking Miriam to her new life. She concludes with a farewell ritual for Miriam at the site.

Book News: Arthurian Legends and Celtic Tales

This section reviews several new books on King Arthur and Arthurian themes:

• "King Arthur's Britain" by John Matthews & Michael J Stead (Blandford, 1995): A photographic book exploring sites associated with Arthur, with a focus on Cornwall.
• "King Arthur and the Grail Quest" by John Matthews (Blandford Paperback, 1995): Weaves together Arthurian material to present a coherent account of Arthur and the Grail legends.
• "The Unknown Arthur" by John Matthews (Blandford, 1995): Retells tales from obscure sources, including the Cornish Tristan and Isolde material.
• "Arthurian Myth and Legend" by Mike Dixon-Kennedy (Blandford, 1995): A comprehensive A-Z encyclopedia of Arthurian legend.
• "The Quest for King Arthur" by David Day (De Agostini, 1995): Traces Arthur's evolution from historical records to the romantic figure of today.

Additionally, the cassette "The Celtic Quest for the Grail" by Caroline Anne Maria Clarke is recommended. It features retellings of Celtic mythology stories interwoven with music.

Another book, "The Book of Celtic Saints" by Elaine Gill, illustrated by Courtney Davis (Blandford, 1995), is reviewed. It retells the lives of a dozen legendary Celtic saints, with a focus on Cornish saints.

"Stone Crosses in East Cornwall" by Andrew Langdon is also mentioned as a guide to stone crosses.

Archaeological Finds: Foundation Offerings

A fascinating discovery at Nanjulian, Cornwall, is reported: a pair of children's shoes from the 1840s found in a cloam oven. This is the third such discovery in Cornwall, with others found at Luxulyan and Polperro. These shoes, along with other examples of dead animals bricked up in houses, are thought to represent offerings to the spirits of the house for well-being and good fortune, or possibly to aid passage to the afterlife.

Fair Exchange: New Magazines

Two new magazines are introduced:

• AT THE EDGE: Replaces Mercian Mysteries, covering folklore, legend, ritual, and sacred landscape. It is a quarterly publication.
• WHITE DRAGON: Takes over the coverage of the Mercian/Midlands area, focusing on witchcraft, occultism, and earth mysteries.

Directories and Notices

The magazine includes extensive listings for:

• Exchange Magazines: Annual subscription prices for various publications related to earth mysteries, Celtic/Arthurian themes, and paganism.
• Noticeboard: A calendar of events in Cornwall and beyond, including May Day celebrations, pagan moots, psychic research group meetings, UFO watch meetings, workshops, and antiquities walks.
• Cornwall Archaeological Society: Information on talks and site visits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the deep roots of folklore, particularly Cornish legends, and their connection to ancient pagan beliefs and goddess worship. The magazine highlights the transition and conflict between paganism and Christianity, showing how older deities and myths were reinterpreted or integrated into the new religious framework. There is a strong emphasis on the spiritual significance of landscape, ancient sites, and natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of valuing and preserving these ancient traditions and exploring their relevance in contemporary life, as evidenced by the promotion of related books, magazines, and events. The inclusion of personal spiritual experiences and archaeological findings further reinforces this perspective.