Meyn Mamvro - No 038 - WinterSpring 1999

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 38, Winter-Spring 1999, is dedicated to exploring the ancient stones and sacred sites of Cornwall. The magazine features articles on the growing pagan and earth mysteries community, archaeological insights into ritual landscapes, and discussions on Arthurian connections to the region.

The Pagan and Earth Mysteries Community in Cornwall

The issue highlights the burgeoning pagan and earth mysteries scene in Cornwall, noting a significant increase in people moving to the area, contributing to a substantial sub-culture. Monthly Pagan Moots in Penzance and Truro/Falmouth are thriving, alongside celebrations at festivals like St. Nectan's Glen with the Pagan Federation. Events such as the Maypole Dance on Carn Bosavern and various drum and dancing circles bring pagans together. Local institutes in Penzance and Falmouth are even offering courses on earth mysticism. The article notes growing 'official' acceptance, citing an example where a 'Hedge Witch' event organized by Geraldine Andrew attracted over 60 people. The Cornwall Archaeological Society has invited editor Cheryl Straffon to lead a walk explaining the significance of West Penwith sites from a Goddess perspective, a first for the society. The upcoming Mazey Day celebrations in Penzance are also mentioned, with local pagans actively participating. The article concludes that the era of pagans hiding due to fear of persecution is long gone in Cornwall, marking a healthy development.

The pagan community is also preparing for the total solar eclipse on August 11th, 1999, with plans for celebrations and rituals at ancient sites. The next issue of Meyn Mamvro is announced as a special Eclipse edition.

Cornish Earth Mysteries Group Activities

The 'News' section details recent activities of the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group (CEMG). These included outdoor site visits and indoor talks. A stormy visit to Holywell Bay and St. Cubert's well on September 6th was eventful, with windsurfers swept out to sea and a boy washed into a cave, though all survived. A calmer visit on October 4th included the Witchcraft Museum in Boscastle, where owner Graham King's improvements were noted, and St. Nectan's Glen, meeting owner Barry Litton. The day concluded with a walk down Rocky Valley to see maze carvings.

The group returned to its 'home base', the Acorn Theatre in Penzance, after refurbishment for its indoor talks. The first talk featured artist and writer Chesca Potter on 'The Greenwood Tarot and the Wheel of the Year'. In November, feng-shui consultant Heather Campbell discussed 'Feng-Shui and the Penwith landscape', focusing on the energy of water and the concept of 'place of the ancestors', with St. Michael's Mount identified as a focal point. The year concluded with a winter solstice gathering at Chûn Quoit and Celtic storytelling.

Sacred Sites Network Group

This section outlines the activities of the Sacred Sites Network Group, whose members include various organizations such as the National Trust, Pagan Federation, and Cornwall Archaeological Unit. At Boscawen-un, the Countryside Stewardship Scheme has been deferred until after the eclipse. Restoration work at Sancreed Well is complete, and efforts are underway to establish a new permissive path. At Madron Well, drainage has been improved. The group is also involved in the scheduling of all ancient sites in Cornwall by English Heritage, with a focus on re-considering standing stones, wells, and crosses. The upcoming total eclipse on August 11th is a major focus, with a Code of Conduct being developed for site users and plans for public ceremonies.

Mazes and Labyrinths

Two reader contributions address mazes. Peter Herring expresses concern about the state of the Troy Town Maze on St. Agnes (Isles of Scilly), stating it feels 'wrong' and the path no longer works. He suggests it needs healing and questions the common explanation of it being made by a bored lighthouse keeper, citing its similarity to designs from Knossos.

The editor notes that the Troytown maze was 'restored' previously by dowsers, causing controversy and accusations of 'ignorant meddling'. The Cornwall Archaeological Unit (CAU) had even considered prosecution.

Jeff Saward, editor of Caerdroia magazine, discusses the mazes carved on the rock face at Rocky Valley near Tintagel. He believes they date to the 18th century, contemporary with the ruined mill house, based on evidence of blasting holes. He disagrees with theories linking them to the Bronze Age or Celtic periods.

Bodmin Moor: A Ritual Landscape

This article, based on a 1995 volume of Cornish Archaeology, explores the ritual landscape of Bodmin Moor. Christopher Tilley's work suggests that Tors were seen as sacred places by Neolithic and Bronze Age peoples, a practice possibly originating in the Mesolithic period. Places like Dozmary Pool held considerable sacred and symbolic significance, with Arthurian legends reinforcing this. Tilley posits that Tors were significant for their 'cosmological import' and were exploited in the early Neolithic, particularly Rough Tor, Stowe's Pound, and the Cheesewring, as places for ceremonial events. During the later Neolithic and Bronze Age, major ceremonial monuments like stone circles, rows, and cairns were built in relation to the Tors, emphasizing natural distinctions and cosmic significance. The article includes a table summarizing the relationship between stone circles and dominant tors.

Leskernick: A Ritual Settlement

This section examines the Leskernick Hill settlement area, consisting of 51 circular stone houses. Archaeological analysis suggests that life in this settlement 4000 years ago was imbued with ritual, with a cosmological reiteration connecting house interiors to ceremonial monuments and the wider landscape. The ritual and knowledge were dispersed throughout the community, indicating communal rather than individual empowerment. While special ceremonies may have involved leaders, the overall sense was of a community connected to the natural world and spirit powers. Leskernick is described as the 'navel' of their world. The article notes that archaeological and 'earth mysteries' approaches to sacred landscape seem to be aligning, bringing the lives and beliefs of these ancient people to life. An exhibition and field trip related to the Leskernick work are announced.

The 'Arthur' Stone

This feature discusses the discovery of a 1400-year-old piece of slate at Tintagel inscribed with the name ARTOGNOV, which Geoffrey Wainwright of English Heritage identified as the Latin spelling of Arthnou, meaning Arthur. While Wainwright stressed there was no evidence linking it to a historical King Arthur, the media widely reported it as a significant discovery related to the 'once and future king'.

Professor Charles Thomas, an expert on Dark Age inscribed stones, provides an article titled 'Arthur? What Arthur?!' In it, he clarifies that 'Artognou' is not Latin for Arthur but is a (Late) British name, an ancestor of Cornish. He states that no other inscribed stones from post-Roman Wales and Cornwall bear a name remotely like 'Arthur'. He dismisses a supposed 'sword-shaped inscribed stone' found in Wales as a forgery. Thomas asserts that the Tintagel slate is not 'the find of a lifetime' and that the truly remarkable aspect is that it took so long to find evidence of contemporary literacy, given Tintagel's known occupation in the 6th century. He suggests that if a real Arthur existed, he likely operated in North Britain and had no known link to Tintagel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rich tapestry of ancient stones, sacred sites, and ritual landscapes in Cornwall, viewed through both archaeological and 'earth mysteries' perspectives. There is a strong emphasis on the continuity of tradition, the spiritual significance of the land, and the growing influence of pagan and earth-centered beliefs. The magazine appears to bridge the gap between academic archaeology and alternative interpretations, presenting them as complementary rather than conflicting. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to engage with these sites and their histories, and to share their own experiences and perspectives, as evidenced by the 'Readers Write' section and the invitation for contributions.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 38
Date: Winter-Spring 1999

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO delves into the rich historical and mythological landscape of Cornwall, focusing on its connections to King Arthur and the ancient significance of the hare.

Arthur at Tintagel: Fact vs. Legend

The articles challenge traditional narratives surrounding King Arthur and Tintagel. Geoffrey of Monmouth's 12th-century 'History of the Kings of Britain' is presented as a key source that placed Arthur's conception and birthplace at Tintagel. However, the magazine critically examines this, suggesting Geoffrey may have been influenced by his lord, Reginald, Earl of Cornwall, who built a castle there. The construction date of Reginald's castle is debated, with evidence suggesting it began later than Geoffrey's 'History' was written and that Richard Earl of Cornwall, not Reginald, built the significant medieval castle in 1230.

Archaeological findings at Tintagel are discussed, including evidence of Dark Age occupation from 475-550 CE, suggesting it served as a seasonal home for post-Roman kings. Excavations revealed buildings on the 'Island,' a defensive ditch dating to 450-500 CE, and a landing point from the same period. The sheer volume of imported pottery found at Tintagel indicates its importance as a trading and settlement site.

An inscribed stone, potentially dating to AD 400 and AD 550, is analyzed. The inscription includes names like PATERNI, COLI AVI FICIT, and ARTOGNOV. While 'FICIT' means 'has made' or 'has built,' and 'ARTOGNOV' is identified as a man's name meaning 'a bear, known-as,' the article firmly concludes that this discovery has no 'Arthurian' meaning whatsoever, criticizing English Heritage for commercializing the site.

Cornwall's Mysterious Places: Arthur's Footprint

The issue highlights 'Arthur's Footprint' on Tintagel Head, a natural rock formation. This site, first recorded in the 19th century, is presented as a place of ancient significance, possibly linked to inauguration ceremonies and the ritual crowning of kings. Similar footmarks in other Celtic regions are cited as evidence of this practice, suggesting Tintagel may have been a sacred site for kingship rituals, where rulers received 'permission' from the 'Goddess of the Land.'

Cornwall and Arthur: Tracing the Legend

This section explores the historical and linguistic connections between Arthur and Cornwall. While Geoffrey of Monmouth strongly linked Arthur to Cornwall, the earliest material about Arthur seems to place him in the north of Britain. The article discusses the etymology of 'Cornwall' and its Celtic names, suggesting a possible link to the Cornovii tribe. It posits that tales of Arthur may have originated in the north and spread to Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany through bards.

The influence of Geoffrey's patrons, particularly Robert, Earl of Gloucester, and Breton families settled in Cornwall, is examined as a potential reason for his strong association of Arthur with the region. Names used in Geoffrey's work are noted as often being of Breton rather than Welsh origin.

The Sacred Hare in Cornwall

This part of the magazine shifts focus to the folklore and religious significance of the hare in Cornwall. A ceramic statue of a hare, unearthed in West Penwith, is presented as evidence of the widespread worship and veneration of the hare in West Cornwall.

Celtic religion held the hare as sacred, linking it to fertility goddesses like Eostre and Freyja. The hare was considered a taboo animal, and its flesh was believed to cause melancholy. It was also associated with divination, with its movements interpreted to predict outcomes. Stories are recounted, including Boudicca using a hare's movements to divine success before battle.

Numerous superstitions surrounding hares in Cornwall are detailed, such as portending fire or causing hare-lip in unborn children. The belief that witches could shapeshift into hares is explored, with the example of Isobel Gowdie. Folklore also includes tales of hunters discovering they had killed witches in hare form, and stories of ghost hares.

Fishermen and miners in Cornwall held a deep fear of hares, considering them bad omens. The hare was seen as a powerful object, connected to goddesses and divination, and eating it was akin to cannibalism. Witches could transform into hares for protection, only vulnerable to a silver bullet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions traditional narratives by presenting archaeological evidence and historical analysis that often contradicts or refines popular legends, particularly concerning King Arthur. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing historical fact from folklore and myth. The magazine appears to advocate for a critical, evidence-based approach to understanding historical and legendary figures, while also celebrating the rich tapestry of local folklore and ancient beliefs, such as the veneration of the hare in Cornwall.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 38
Date: Winter-Spring 1999
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0966-5897

This issue of Meyn Mamvro delves into various aspects of paganism, earth mysteries, and Arthurian lore, with a strong focus on Cornwall and its sacred sites.

Cerridwen's Cauldron

This article by Cheryl Straffon recounts a ritual performed at Alsia Well on Imbolc (February 1st). The well, a beautiful remote sacred site in Cornwall, was found to be blocked by a fallen old hawthorn tree, which the author refers to as the 'Cailleach tree'. The group, unprepared with tools, used their bare hands and collective effort to clear the obstruction. They then re-positioned a newly growing hawthorn tree and gave thanks to the old tree for its guardianship. The ritual symbolized the transition from the Cailleach to the Goddess Bride, with the group decorating the well with candles and incense, reading poems, and planting daffodils. The experience left them feeling the presence of the Goddess in the land and within themselves.

OOR OAMA: A Mystical Experience on Rough Tor

Written by Monica Sjöö, this piece describes her experiences on the moors of Southwest England, particularly Rough Tor on Bodmin Moor. Having previously facilitated an Ancient History camp on Dartmoor, she was familiar with the awe-inspiring tors but hadn't fully explored them. Sjöö reflects on the ancient primeval powers and hauntings associated with these sites, viewing them as gateways to other realms. Her personal pilgrimage to Rough Tor in November 1997, with a friend, turned into a profound experience. Despite windy and rainy conditions, the land was golden with autumnal colors. Upon reaching the higher Tor, they entered a space of utter silence, surrounded by dark rock-walls. This experience left them awe-struck, feeling they had to speak in whispers to avoid offending the spirits. The author felt empowered and exhilarated, drawing the cheesewring-type formations on the summit. This powerful experience brought back memories of similar encounters with Earth's wild, sacred, natural powers at other sites in Yorkshire and the Outer Hebrides.

Book Reviews

The magazine features a section of book reviews covering a range of topics:

• "Secret Camelot: the lost legends of King Arthur" by John Matthews is a follow-up to "The Unknown Arthur," exploring lesser-known Arthurian tales and early versions of known ones.
• "Arthurian Myth & Legend" by Mike Dixon-Kennedy is followed by his new book "Heroes of the Round Table," which offers a historical overview and examines knights in detail.
• "Arthur: the legend unveiled" by Christopher Johnson & Eve Lung suggests a link between the Mother Goddess belief and Arthurian legend, with Christianity re-writing the Grail story.
• Oakdragon Publications offers reprints of three booklets on Cornish Arthurian material: "Arthur's Lost Land" by J.C. Walters (legendary sites), "King Arthur in Cornwall" by Henry Jenner (history of Tintagel Castle and place names), and "The story of King Arthur in Cornwall" by L.J. Dickinson (a summary of the myth in Cornwall).
• "It's Not Too Late" by Hamish Miller, a co-author of "The Sun and the Serpent," distills his experience and philosophy on life cycles, symbiotic relationships with Earth, and communication with the universe. It explores energy patterns at Merry Maidens stone circle and the 'real dance of the stones'.
• Mên-an-Tol Studio Publications by Ian Cooke has produced several new books: "Standing Stones of the Land's End" examines menhir identification and function. "Illustrations of Stone Circles, Cromlechs etc" by William Cotton, first published in 1827, has been reprinted. Forthcoming titles include "Sun Disc to Crucifix - The Cross" (pre-Christian origins of the cross) and a reprint of "Specimens of Ancient Cornish Crosses, Fonts etc" by F.C. Hingston.

The Old Book Shop

An advertisement for "The Old Book Shop" in New Eltham, London, specializing in esoteric, New Age, spiritualism, witchcraft, earth mysteries, and natural magic books, also buying and selling old and second-hand books.

The Piper's Tune

This section reports on the creation of a new stone circle at Lower Treave, West Penwith, commissioned by Margaret Booth. The stones were sourced from a nearby farm, and the trilithons are noted as not being native to Cornwall. The piece also recounts the final resting place of the skeleton of Joan Wytte, a Cornish witch who died in prison in 1775. Her skeleton, after being on display at the Witchcraft Museum in Boscastle for 40 years, was given a secret burial ceremony in 1998.

Mail Order and Services

Advertisements for "Adventur-ine Mail Order" offering oils, burners, incense, crystals, candles, and tarot, and for "Liz Allmark" providing astrological and numerological services. Details are provided for ordering charts, analyses, and predictions.

Exchange Magazines and Publications

A comprehensive list of magazines available for exchange or annual subscription is provided, categorized under "Earth Mysteries," "Sacred Sites," "Celtic/Arthurian," "Paganism," and "Overseas." Publications include "The Ley Hunter," "Northern Earth," "Touchstone," "FOGS," "The Right Times," "Walking the Talk," "Source," "Caerdroia," "Rilko," "Dalriada," "Celtic Connections," "Pendragon," "The Cauldron," "Quest," "The Silver Wheel," "Wood and Water," and "The Dragon Chronicle." Overseas listings include "Power Trips" and "Goddessing."

Meyn Mamvro itself is available on annual subscription, with a special "Total Eclipse of the Sun in Cornwall" edition planned for MM39.

Noticeboard

The noticeboard section lists upcoming events and activities:

• Cornish Earth Mysteries: Winter talks at the Acorn in Penzance featuring speakers on various topics related to living in time, stone circles, folklore, and the future.
• Cornwall Archeological Society Goddess Sites Visit: A guided visit to sites including Merry Maidens, Boleigh fogou, Madron well, Mên-an-Tol, and Boscawen-ûn.
• Beltane Celebrations 1999: Events include a Maypole Dance at Carn Bosavern, Obby Oss day at Padstow, celebrations at Harmony Pottery, and a Three Wells Walk.
• Pagan Moots: Regular meetings in the Penwith and Truro/Falmouth areas.
• Open Circles: Events held at St. Nectan's Glen for festivals like Imbolc and Beltane.
• Friends of the Witchcraft Museum: Occasional events, gatherings, and talks at Boscastle.
• The Wellbeing Centre: Workshops and events at Illogan, Redruth.
• Research and Enlightenment Centre: Monthly talks and healing sessions at St. Austell.
• Women Only Spring Equinox Celebration: A retreat on the North Cornwall coast.
• Women's Earth Mysteries: Monthly meetings in mid-Cornwall.
• Moonlodge: Women's Drumming Group meetings in West Penwith.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are deeply rooted in earth spirituality, pagan traditions, and the exploration of ancient landscapes and myths, particularly within the context of Cornwall. The editorial stance appears to be one of reverence for nature, ancient sites, and spiritual practices, encouraging readers to connect with the land and its energies. There is a strong emphasis on the Goddess, Celtic traditions, and Arthurian legends, presented through personal experiences, historical accounts, and practical information about events and resources. The magazine serves as a platform for a community interested in these subjects, providing a mix of reflective articles, practical information, and book reviews.