Meyn Mamvro - No 033 - Spring 1997

Magazine Overview

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, number 33, published in Spring/Summer 1997, is dedicated to exploring the ancient stones and sacred sites of Cornwall. The cover features an illustration of a stone circle or cairn and highlights key topics such as "CRAIG WEATHERHILL'S EPONA", "WELLS", "MYSTERIOUS PLACES", "STANDING STONES", "RITUAL SITES", and "FOGOUS". The price of the magazine was £1.70.

Contents

The issue includes an editorial, a section for reader contributions, and a variety of articles. Key articles cover:

• Editorial: Page 1
• Cornish Earth Mysteries Group: Page 2
• Lost & Found: Page 3
• Readers Write: Page 4
• In Search of Cornwall's Holy Wells - 5: By Cheryl Straffon, pages 5-10. This article details a journey to find various holy wells in Cornwall, including St. Kew's Well, St. Julitta's Well, St. Perran's Well at Trethevy, and St. Gennys' Well.
• Lesser-known sites in West Penwith: By Raymond Cox, page 12.
• Epona's Children: By Craig Weatherhill, page 14.
• Cornwall's Mysterious Places: Warleggan: By Andrew Hassel, page 18.
• Penrose Elementals: By Jean Harris, page 20.
• St.Levan Landscape Lion: By Elaine Gill, page 21.
• Cerridwen's Cauldron: By Caeia March, page 22.
• Book Review: Jo May's 'Fogou', page 23.
• The Pipers Tune: Page 24.

Editorial and Site Preservation

The editorial section on page 3 discusses the return of Spring and the associated annual events in Cornwall, such as the May Day Eve maypole dance and the Midsummer bonfires. It also addresses controversies that have marred previous summers, including the destruction of trees at Madron Well, an attempt to steal a Merry Maidens stone, and the controversial cutting of clouties and branches at Sancreed Well. The article highlights concerns from the Cornwall Archaeological Unit and English Heritage about the increasing activity at ancient sites, such as lighting fires and digging up turf. It emphasizes the need for respect and care for these sites, acknowledging that they were built for ritual purposes and continue to be used as such. The author stresses that all visitors, regardless of their background (archaeologists, researchers, pagans, New Age followers, tourists), should be accommodated and treat the sites with respect, avoiding any misuse or conflict.

Cornish Earth Mysteries Group Talks

Page 4 details the 1997 series of talks by the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group:

• January 30th: Jill Harris spoke on "Solar Games", discussing ritual games played out in the landscape and their connection to Arthurian legends.
• February 27th: Jackie Nowakowski, a field archaeologist, presented on "Aspects of Life and Death in Bronze Age Cornwall", based on her article in MM32. She discussed funerary and ritual monuments and how their significance changed over time from ritual to burial sites.
• March Meeting: Barry Reilly spoke on "Druidry and the way to the sacred space", exploring the meaning of Druidry, its spiritual journey, the triple order of bards, ovates, and druids, festivals, and the role of women.
• April Meeting: Terence Meaden discussed "Sexual Symbolism and Fertility Aspects of Megalithic Art and Monuments", focusing on the lost religions of megalith builders and their connection to the agricultural calendar.

Lost and Found: In Memoriam

Page 5 features two items:

• An inscribed stone: Discovered in West Penwith during the conversion of a cottage at Kerris, an upright stone with lettering was found. Professor Charles Thomas made a preliminary reading of the inscription, which appears to be a name, possibly "Macarius Carasimilius", from the 6th or 7th centuries. This discovery adds to a list of other inscribed stones in the area, suggesting early Celtic settlements.
• Don Wilkins: The article commemorates Don Wilkins, a Cornish character who died in January at the age of 69. He was an explosives expert, a successful water dowser, and a regular visitor to the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group. He was featured in a BBC TV series discussing his belief in the energy of standing stones for navigation.

"RITUAL PHOBIA" Article

Pages 6 and 7 contain an article titled "RITUAL PHOBIA" by Cheryl Straffon, which discusses the reluctance of some archaeologists to consider ritual explanations for ancient sites. The article references Jackie Nowakowski's work on Bronze Age Cornwall and Ralph Merrifield's observations on the "prejudice" against ritual interpretations. It highlights the case of "fogous", which were often interpreted as places of refuge or storage until recent research suggested otherwise. The article quotes Andrew Selkirk, editor of 'Current Archaeology', who criticizes the "obsession against anything ritual" among British archaeologists and calls for the re-admission of the term 'ritual' into archaeological vocabulary. It also discusses the interpretation of sites like Carn Brea, suggesting that the breaking of arrowheads might have had a ritual context rather than solely indicating conflict.

Readers Write

Page 8 includes two letters:

• Damage to Stone Circles: Ann Preston-Jones from the Cornwall Archaeological Unit expresses concern about increasing damage to stone circles and ritual monuments in West Cornwall, including fire pits and turf lifting. She emphasizes the importance of the below-ground component of these sites and the legal protection they have as scheduled monuments.
• Piskies, Ley-Nodes and Hotspots: Robin Ellis writes about an article on "piskey sites" in MM32, suggesting a connection to "hotspots" for paranormal phenomena. He references Stephen Jenkins' work and Colin Wilson's experience of disorientation at Boscawen-un stone circle, proposing that these hotspots might occur at the crossing point of ley lines and ley-nodes. He also mentions an alleged "spirit-path" at St. Leven and suggests research into dreaming and piskey sites.

A note at the end of this section clarifies that the Dandelion Trust did not purchase St. Nectan's Glen, and negotiations have fallen through, leaving the site for sale again, though the waterfall is open for 1997.

In Search of Cornwall's Holy Wells - 5 (Continued)

Pages 9 and 10 continue Cheryl Straffon's article on holy wells:

• St. Kew's Well: Described as a small roofed building in a corner of the old Rectory grounds, with clear running water. St. Kew is suggested to have been a Goddess.
• St. Julitta's Well: Located in a hollow under a large tree, this well is described as an "exquisite small roofed building enclosing clear still water", evoking a sense of a "pixie house".
• St. Perran's Well at Trethevy: Found near the walk to St. Nectan's Glen, this well is described as being in a sorry state, with crumbling masonry and dumped iron, and a locked gate.
• St. Gennys' Well: Found buried in overgrown wilderness near St. Gennys, this well is described as charming but neglected, lamenting the "decline and fall" of the well.

Advertisements and Other Content

The magazine also includes advertisements for "THE QUAY BOOKSHOP" in Penzance, offering a wide range of books on earth mysteries, mythology, and alternative health. Another advertisement promotes "THE EARTH MYSTERIES GUIDE TO MID-CORNWALL AND THE LIZARD", a revised edition with expanded sections. The back cover likely contains further content or advertisements not visible in the provided scans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration and preservation of Cornwall's ancient sites, the interpretation of their historical and ritualistic significance, and the intersection of archaeology with earth mysteries and pagan beliefs. The editorial stance is one of advocacy for respectful engagement with these sites, challenging conventional archaeological interpretations when they seem to dismiss ritualistic or spiritual aspects, and promoting a holistic understanding of the landscape and its history. There is a clear emphasis on the spiritual and mystical dimensions of Cornwall's heritage.

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO, number 33 from Spring 1997, delves into the mysterious and ancient sites of Cornwall, with a particular focus on its wells, standing stones, and rich Celtic mythology. The magazine explores local legends, historical figures, and the enduring influence of ancient beliefs.

Ancient Wells of Cornwall

The issue details a journey through Cornwall, visiting several significant wells. The first stop is at Poundstock to find St.Neot's Well, described as the largest well encountered, featuring a substantial building and an enclosed area. Following this, the exploration leads to Launcells to discover St.Swithin's Well, noted for its excellent preservation and a unique step-down entrance resembling a tunnel. Further north, near Morwenstow, St.John's Well is found nestled among trees, a picturesque structure unfortunately padlocked. The journey culminates with St.Morwenna's Well, a remarkable well hewn directly into a cliff face overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, accessible only by a challenging path.

Standing Stones of West Penwith

The article "Lesser-Known Sites in West Penwith" by Raymond Cox explores various enigmatic standing stones in the south-east area. The Drift Stones, a pair of tall stones near the A30, are described as appearing and disappearing through mist. The article also examines sites like Kerris, with stones integrated into a wall and marking an Iron Age Roundago, and Redhouse, featuring dissimilar stones. Further explorations include Boscawen-Ros, known for its standing stones, and Castallack, which boasts a Roundago and standing stones with cup-and-ring marks. The author notes the prevalence of 'leys' (lines of energy) passing through these sites and the speculative nature of their original purpose, with some possibly serving as entrance stones or portals.

Epona's Children: Horses in Celtic Mythology

Authored by Craig Weatherhill, this section delves into the profound significance of horses in Celtic culture and mythology. The horse goddess Epona, revered throughout Britain and Gaul and adopted by Rome, is highlighted for her association with fertility, virility, and solar symbolism. The article recounts ancient Celtic king-making rituals involving horses, such as the symbolic mating of a king with a white mare. It explores the role of horses in Celtic mythology, referencing figures like Pegasus and Sleipnir, and mentions Welsh and Irish myths featuring equine heroes like Liath Macha. Supernatural equine figures such as the Kelpie and the 'white horses' of the sea are also discussed. The article touches upon the Padstow Obby Oss, a fertility symbol with possible water horse origins, and the reverence for horses as sacred creatures among Cornwall's 'Small People'. Legends of night-ridden horses, spectral steeds, and the devil riding black horses are recounted, alongside the story of Hector, a devoted steed of a ghost-layer. The enduring connection between humans and horses is emphasized, suggesting a partnership based on understanding and communication.

Cornwall's Mysterious Places: Warleggan Revisited

Andrew Hassall revisits the enigmatic location of Warleggan, following a previous article by Robin Ellis. The article describes Warleggan as a lonely hamlet on Bodmin Moor, associated with an aura of dread and mystery. It mentions the eccentric behaviour of Reverend Frederick Densham and the historical figure Ralph de Tremur. The author recounts an unsettling experience near the River Bedalder, involving an invisible web-like sensation, and notes the existence of a nearby circle. The piece questions the 'sinister' nature of the place, with a local woman suggesting that an obsession with negative manifestations leads to imbalance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores themes of ancient mysteries, folklore, and the supernatural within Cornwall. There's a strong emphasis on the spiritual and historical significance of natural sites like wells and standing stones, and a deep dive into the mythology and symbolism surrounding horses in Celtic culture. The editorial stance appears to be one of reverence for ancient beliefs and an open-minded investigation into unexplained phenomena and local legends, encouraging readers to appreciate the deep historical and mystical layers of Cornwall.

MEYN MAMVRO, Issue 33, Spring 1997, is a magazine focused on earth mysteries, folklore, and spirituality, particularly within Cornwall and the West Country of the UK. The issue features articles on local legends, paranormal experiences, landscape zodiacs, and seasonal celebrations.

Warleggan: A Place of Mystery

The issue opens with an exploration of Warleggan, a location described as an "inexplicable enigma." The article touches upon the history of St. Bartholomew's Church, which suffered damage from lightning in March 1818, and the eccentric Reverend Densham, whose spirit is said to haunt the area. A woman recounts a frightening experience of feeling "something in the car" near Warleggan. The text suggests that the land itself may interact with those sensitive to natural rhythms, and mentions the prehistoric landscape of Carburrow Tor as a place where older practices are rumored to have occurred. The author revisited Warleggan with a third party, observing a subjective malaise, alienation, and hopelessness, leading to a vow never to return.

The Penrose Elementals

This section features a personal account by Jean Harris about her childhood experiences at Penrose Manor in Cornwall. She describes a strange atmosphere and a feeling of being in a timeless world. Harris recounts an incident where she awoke to hear child-like voices and was carried downstairs by "two little people," who were joined by others. These figures, dressed in white, were mischievous and playful. As an adult, Harris believes these were 'elementals' or 'Faery Folk' and that these experiences, along with periods of trance, were a way for her to maintain a connection to the spiritual dimension.

The St. Levan's Lion: A Landscape Zodiac

Following a previous mention of a zodiacal landscape lion on the Lizard peninsula, this article by Elaine Gill introduces a similar feline figure in the Penwith peninsula, near St. Levan. The "Penwith Lion" is traced on a 1:25000 map and is described as a mirror image of the Lizard cousin, facing east. Its features are delineated by field shapes and watercourses. The article details specific locations that form parts of the lion's anatomy, such as Tregothal Farm (brow), Skewjack Surf Village (head), and Nanjizal (back). It also explores potential links to Cornish and Celtic mythology, including Beli, the Celtic god of the sun, and the Lion of Judah, a title for Jesus Christ.

Cerridwen's Cauldron: Beltane Celebrations

This contribution by CAEIA MARCH describes the Beltane celebrations in Cornwall, a festival marking the Eve of Summer. The author's women's group observes eight rituals throughout the year, including Beltane. The celebration involves a ritual at a stone circle or dolmen at sunset on the night before May Day, symbolizing fertility and creativity. Participants leap over a Beltane fire to leave behind what they wish to discard. The article also mentions the group's participation in the Obby Oss festival in Padstow on May Day. A recipe for "Beltane Bake" is provided, featuring ingredients like onion, mixed beans, vegetarian cheese, and three-cornered leeks.

Book Review: Fogou: A Journey into the Underworld

This section reviews Jo May's book, "Fogou: A Journey into the Underworld." The review describes a fogou as a Cornish underground passage or cave. The book is praised as a "remarkable book by an extraordinary man" who has experienced a deep connection with the Celtic structure of Boleigh fogou. It is said to open up to voices from "deep within Mother Earth" and explores the history of the fogou and its effect on people.

The Pipers Tune: Monument Placement Issues

This article details the challenges faced by sculptor Rory Te Tigo, who built a replica Mên-an-Tol monument on Cam Bosavern in St.Just. Local residents objected to the siting, fearing an influx of tourists. The landowner withdrew permission, leaving Rory with a monument without a home. The monument was then offered to St. Just Town Council, and after negotiations, a site by the entrance of St. Just Library was proposed. This location is convenient as the magazine's editor, Cheryl Straffon, is the librarian there. The move is expected to happen later that summer, making the library potentially the only one with a modern megalithic monument outside its door.

Noticeboard and Publications

The magazine includes a "Noticeboard" section listing various upcoming events in May, June, July, and September 1997, related to May Day celebrations, Beltane, Midsummer, Tinnners Track walks, and archaeological field days. It also lists workshops and events at the Wellbeing Centre. Additionally, there is a section for "Exchange Magazines" and "1997 Publications" from OAKMAGIC PUBLICATIONS, offering books on Cornish folklore, superstitions, and characters. The magazine itself, MEYN MAMVRO, is available via annual subscription.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of local folklore, ancient sites, and unexplained phenomena, particularly within Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on the spiritual and mystical aspects of these locations and traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and sharing these aspects of local heritage and mystery, encouraging reader engagement through event listings and publication recommendations. The magazine acts as a conduit for information on earth mysteries, Celtic traditions, and paganism.