Meyn Mamvro - No 037 - Autumn 1998

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 37, Autumn 1998, is a magazine dedicated to exploring ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall. It is published by Meyn Mamvro and priced at £1.90. The cover features artwork depicting a windswept tree and stone ruins under a moonlit sky, with the magazine's title and thematic keywords.

Editorial and Contents

The issue begins with an editorial and a table of contents listing articles on various aspects of Cornish earth mysteries, sacred sites, and folklore. Topics include the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group, Cornish Sacred Sites Group, reader contributions, straight lines and crooked ideas, a search for a 'quaint' stone, holy wells, lesser-known sites in West Penwith, the Goddess Sillina, mysterious places on the Rame Peninsula, book reviews, and a piece titled 'The Pipers Tune'. The magazine also includes advertisements for related books and services, such as The Quay Bookshop and a shop selling organic herbs and essential oils.

Key Articles and Features

Arthur's Stone Discovered at Tintagel

This article reports on a sensational archaeological discovery at Tintagel: an inscribed stone dating from the 6th-7th century bearing the inscription ARTOGNOU, identified as Latin for ARTHUR. This find is described as 'the find of a lifetime' and has significant implications for Arthurian studies, potentially identifying a historical Arthur rather than the mythical one. Chief archaeologist Geoffrey Wainwright is quoted, suggesting the inscription refers to a high-status individual. The article notes that this discovery will likely lead to increased attention on Tintagel and Arthurian studies.

Cornish Earth Mysteries Group News

This section details recent activities of the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group, marking its 10th year. Events included a May Day Eve Maypole Dance on Carn Bosavern and the Three Wells Walk, both blessed with good weather and attended by numerous people. The countryside was noted for its beauty with carpets of bluebells. Subsequent events included a visit to Richard Webb's garden in Porthcurno, exploring energy lines and the supposed site of St. Levan's grave, and a 'Well Sprung Walk' led by Rory Te Tigo, visiting seven wells and two springs in the St. Just area. A Lammas day walk covered lesser-known sites in West Penwith, including Carfury standing stone, Bolisiack menhir, Nine Maidens stone circle, and Fenton Bebibell well.

Sacred Sites Network Group

The Sacred Sites Network Group, comprising representatives from various organizations including the National Trust, Pagan Federation, and Cornwall Archaeological Unit, continues its work. Discussions have focused on Boscawen-ûn stone circle, Sancreed Well, and Madron Well, with efforts to improve access and address issues like flooding. The group is also addressing the condition of other sites, such as the Merry Maidens stone circle and the Nine Maidens Circle at Boskednan, identifying needs for restoration. The recent purchase of Chûn Castle and Downs by the Wildlife Trust is highlighted, secured through local donations and a Heritage Lottery Fund grant. A significant concern for the group is the forthcoming 1999 Total Eclipse of the Sun, with predictions of a surge in visitors and potential strain on resources. The group is working on a Code of Conduct for sites during the eclipse and planning coordinated public ceremonies.

Lanlivery's Holy Well

This reader's contribution from Alex Stone provides background information on St. Bryvyth's Holy Well at Lanlivery. The well is located within the grounds of Churchtown Outdoor Centre, and is dressed annually with flowers and candles. The writer describes personal experiences at the well, noting a mixture of attraction, respect, and fear, and mentions hearing hoof-beats near the stream. The article also touches upon a hedge maze, outdoor musical instruments, and a willow arch known as the 'moon gate' located near the well.

Into Alignment

Kris Bond submits observations on potential alignments concerning the Bosiliack menhir and other sites in West Penwith, including Carfury menhir, Watch Croft menhir, Pennance entrance grave, Treen Common enclosure, and Gear Farm stones. These alignments are presented as possibly relevant if the monuments are authentic.

Straight Lines & Crooked Ideas!

This article critically examines the concept of 'straight lines' in Earth Mysteries research, referencing the work of Alfred Watkins, John Michell, and Alby Stone. It discusses 'ley lines', 'dead-straight' coffin paths, and 'spirit paths', questioning the prevalence and significance of straightness. The author analyzes Alby Stone's book 'Straight Track Crooked Path' and discusses examples of supposed straight-line paths in West Cornwall, such as the Zennor churchway and the St. Levan mythic pathway, concluding that they are often meandering and not truly straight. The article also mentions a Bronze-Age death-road trackway from Penzance to Lanyon, questioning its straightness and the validity of its claimed alignments.

In Search of a "Quaint" Stone

Written by Andy Norfolk, this article investigates the 'Cuntestone', a boundary marker stone near Fowey. The name's etymology is explored, with possibilities including Cornish 'koynt' (strange, quaint) or 'kuntell' (to gather), and Old Cornish 'cant' (district, border). The article references historical documents, including the Bruton and Montacute cartularies, which detail land grants and boundaries involving the stone. The location of the stone is debated, with suggestions pointing towards Bodmin Moor. The article also discusses the Dewey River and boundary stones in the Hardhead Downs area, speculating that the 'Cuntestone' might be found there or at Patrieda Barn.

In Search of Cornwall's Holy Wells - 7

This installment continues the series on Cornwall's holy wells, focusing on those near the River Tamar. It describes Dupath Well, a well-house with a legend of a duel, and St. Indract's Well at Halton Quay, which was restored but has since fallen into disuse. The article notes the historical significance of these sites and their settings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the study of Cornwall's ancient sites, folklore, and earth mysteries. There is a strong emphasis on local history, archaeology, and the spiritual significance of the landscape. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and inquiry, encouraging readers to engage with these topics and contribute their own findings. The magazine also shows an interest in broader themes such as Arthurian legend, paganism, and the potential impact of significant astronomical events like the 1999 eclipse. The articles often blend historical research, personal experiences, and speculative interpretation, reflecting a commitment to uncovering the hidden narratives within Cornwall's ancient heritage.

MEYN MAMVRO | 37 | Autumn 1998

This issue of Meyn Mamvro focuses on exploring the ancient holy wells and pagan sites of Cornwall, with a particular emphasis on the West Penwith area and the legends of the Maiden Goddess. The magazine features articles by Raymond Cox, Chris Jenkins, and Mary Coombs, along with a review by Cheryl Straffon.

Holy Wells of Cornwall

The issue begins with a detailed account of a journey to several holy wells in Cornwall. The author describes visiting Landulph holy well (SX428 614), which is now overgrown and its structure lost. The holy well of St. Mary the Virgin (SX405 614) in Botus Fleming is found to be barred by an iron gate and dry, with a statue of the Virgin present. At Markwell, the author investigates a mystery surrounding a well possibly dedicated to St. Mark, noting the presence of an old well house and evidence of a nearby chapel. The journey continues to Sheviock to find Lady Well (SX374 547), which, contrary to previous descriptions of ruin, is discovered as a beautiful vulva-shaped, slate-lined well. Another well visited is St. Julian's Well (SX447 521) at Maker, a 14thC building that is now almost dry and situated in a gloomy wood.

Lesser-Known Sites in West Penwith

Raymond Cox contributes an article on lesser-known ancient sites in West Penwith. He discusses Ballowall Barrow near St.Just (SW356 312), a large cliff-top barrow from the middle Bronze Age, which must have had ceremonial use and is associated with legends of dancing small people. Excavations revealed urns and bones, and the site was reconstructed in the Victorian era. Cox also describes Portheras Common Barrow (SW391 332), a forlorn round barrow with a well-preserved cist grave. He then details Lower Boscaswell Well (SW377 346), a holy well named 'hesken' (sedge), located near bungalows, tin mine ruins, and an Iron-Age fogou, highlighting the mix of habitation, industry, and culture in the area.

Traces of the Goddess Sillina

Chris Jenkins explores the legends of the Goddess Sillina and the 'Maiden' aspect of the Cornish Goddess trinity (Maiden, Mother, Crone). He recounts a tale from Robert Hunt about Selina Pennalunna, a figure with mermaid tendencies who takes revenge on her lover. Jenkins links this to the 'Merry Maidens' stone circle, where 19 maidens were said to have been transformed into stones. Other sites associated with the Maiden aspect include Chapel Carn Brea and Sennen Cove, known for mermaid legends. The article also touches upon the Greek Moon Goddess Selene and her connection to the Cornish name.

The Mother and Crone Aspects

The article continues to explore the Mother and Crone aspects of the Goddess. Madron is mentioned as a healing well where mothers brought sickly children and young ladies sought divination about marriage. The Tolvan Stone in the Lizard area is described as a 'Mother' site where mothers passed children through its orifice for healing. The Crone aspect is represented by legends of witch crones and wreckers, such as Maggy Figgy, who was said to call up storm spirits. Mermaid Rock is also linked to the Crone, with mermaids appearing before storms.

Goddess Sites and Connections

A diagram illustrates connections between various sites and potential Goddess cults, including Sithney, St.Levan, Rospletha, Zennor, Sennan, and St.Burien. The article discusses the possible masculinisation of female deities by Christianity and notes that St.Levan's Church was a noted witchcraft centre, famed for its mermaid effigy. Sennan is linked to the Irish Goddess of the river Shannon, and St.Burien is identified as a Mother church to St.Levan.

The Rame Peninsula

Mary Coombs writes about the Rame Peninsula, describing its defensive history from the Iron Age to World War II. Rame Head is crowned by a ruined chapel dedicated to St. Michael. The author recounts personal experiences on the Mount Edgcumbe estate, including observing an exceptionally tall figure amidst the trees and finding a traditional stone cottage.

Book Review: The Earth Goddess

Cheryl Straffon reviews 'The Earth Goddess: Celtic and Pagan legacy of the Landscape'. The book is described as a guide to traditional lore and tales related to sites, providing factual and informative content that encourages exploration of the landscape's legacy. It is highly recommended for those interested in native spirituality and alternative views of history.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient Cornish sites, particularly holy wells and prehistoric monuments, and the investigation of pagan beliefs and Goddess worship. The magazine adopts an informative and folkloric approach, presenting historical accounts, legends, and archaeological findings to shed light on the spiritual and cultural heritage of Cornwall. The editorial stance appears to be one of appreciating and documenting these ancient traditions and sites.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 37
Volume: 37
Date: Autumn 1998
Publisher: meynmamvro.co.uk
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0966-5897
Price: £6.00 (inc p&p) for 3 issues

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO delves into a variety of esoteric and local interest topics, with a strong focus on Cornwall. It features personal narratives, book reviews, and information on pagan and Earth Mysteries events and organizations.

Personal Accounts and Local Lore

The issue opens with a personal account of unsettling experiences in the Barn Pool area of Cornwall, where the author describes recurring instances of finding themselves in unexpected locations, attributing it humorously to 'pixies'. This is followed by another personal narrative about a feeling of being watched in the woods near 'The Ruins' and a subsequent inexplicable fear experienced when crossing the Deer Park on October 31st (Halloween/Samhain). The author notes that this fear was not present before this incident.

The area around the Deer Park is explored for its historical significance, with the name 'Maker' linked to 'old walls' and potential ancient stockades or watchtowers. The proximity of St. Mary and St. Julian's church and a holy well suggests early Celtic-Christian reverence, possibly predating Christianity.

Sacred Sites and Healing

Two articles focus on experiences at Cornish holy wells. Jo Pacsoo recounts visits to Madron Baptistry Well, describing the offerings left there and the search for the water's source amidst a swampy environment. She also describes a visit to Holywell, a natural well in a cave on the beach, highlighting its magical atmosphere and the healing experienced there, attributing it to the place itself rather than the water.

Bridget Stevens shares her experiences at Holywell, noting how visits while feeling unwell resulted in feeling wonderful. She also recounts a visit to Sancreed Well, where she bathed and felt a profound sense of freshness and initiation. She reflects on the power of these places and the potential fear of explaining such experiences.

Book Review: The Goddess on the Mount

A book review by 'CS' discusses 'The Goddess on the Mount' by Kelvin I. Jones, published by Oakmagic Publications. The review highlights that the book is an original work of research exploring the significance of St. Michael's Mount as a place of Christian antiquity. It links the Mount to Mont St. Michel in France and suggests the existence of pagan celibrant groups worshipping the Earth Mother. The review notes the significance of St.Keyne and the old name 'din-sul' for the Mount, linking it to the Goddess Sul(is). The book concludes that the Mount was a major centre of Goddess worship before its Christianization. The reviewer considers the work a valuable contribution to reclaiming the pre-Christian significance of ancient Cornish sites.

Paganism and Earth Mysteries in Cornwall

'The Pipers Tune' article discusses recent features in The Cornishman newspaper about pagan customs and stones in Penwith. It highlights the growing number of people identifying as Druids, pagans, or members of Earth Mysteries groups who celebrate old earth traditions. The article mentions interviews with Cheryl Straffon and Cassandra Latham, and a local pagan couple, Ian and Sarah Cipsher, who wrote to Prince Charles about restoring pagan sites. The article also notes a response defending the Pagan Federation from criticism.

Another section reports on the Museum of Witchcraft in Boscastle, under new owners Graham King and Liz Crow. It mentions a new gallery, a guide to the museum, and new acquisitions, including an altar belonging to Alex Sanders and the tools of a country witch. The skeleton of Joan Wytte is mentioned as being removed from display pending a decision on burial. A 'Friends of the Museum' group is also noted.

Community and Events

The issue includes a call for Cornish pen-pals from Lee Taylor, a 30-year-old white witch. It also lists various exchange magazines related to Earth Mysteries, Celtic/Arthurian themes, and Paganism, providing contact details and prices.

A 'NOTICEBOARD' section provides a comprehensive list of upcoming events in Cornwall, including visits to Earth Mysteries sites, talks on tarot and Feng-Shui, Celtic story-telling, workshops on ancient mysteries, modern dreams, crop circles, and lunar zodiacs. It also lists weekend events focused on women's mysteries, shamanism, and sacred sites, as well as workshops on skydancing tantra and fogou.

Events related to the New Age and Pagan communities are also listed, such as the Cornwall's New Age Festival, Penwith Pagan Moot, Kettles Pagan Group, Truro Pagan Moot, Open Circles, Harmony Pottery events, Kali Women's Workshops, Women's Earth Mysteries meetings, Moonlodge Women's Drumming Group, and events at The Wellbeing Centre.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are paganism, Earth Mysteries, folklore, sacred sites, and local history, with a particular emphasis on Cornwall. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and documentation of these traditions and phenomena, encouraging community engagement through event listings and contact information. There is also a subtle undercurrent of personal experience with the unexplained, including hints of UFO sightings and a sense of the uncanny in natural landscapes.