Meyn Mamvro - No 053 - WinterSpring 2004

Magazine Overview

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, number 53, published in Winter-Spring 2004, is dedicated to exploring "ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall." The cover features a price of £2.20 and highlights key locations and themes such as Chapel Carn Brea, Venton East, St.Just's Holy Well, Fogous, Sacred Sites, News, and "Cornwall's Colourful Sites."

Contents

The table of contents on page 2 outlines the diverse articles within this issue. It includes an "Editorial," a piece on the "Cornish Earth Mysteries Group," and "Penwith Pagan Moot." Several articles focus on specific sites: "Lost and Found" discusses archaeological discoveries, "FOCUS ON.. ST.JUST-IN-PENWITH" examines the area, "Venton East - the holy well of St.Just" by Rory Te'Tigo delves into a specific well, and "*Cornwall's Colourful Sites - events of 2003*" looks at local happenings. Other articles include "My Favourite Fuggy Holes: 2 Pendeen fogou" by Wella Penwrath, "Chapel Carn Brea: a ceremonial centre" by Paul Bonnington, "Bodean fogou excavated," and information on "Cornish Book Publishers - Mên-an-Tol Studio" and "The Pipers Tune."

The issue also includes contact information for contributions, with articles and artwork copyrighted by Meyn Mamvro or the authors. Cheryl Straffon is listed as the Editor, and thanks are given to Andy Norfolk for the front cover artwork. Contact details for Meyn Mamvro, including phone, website, and email, are provided. Additionally, an advertisement for "Liz Allmark Astrological and Numerological Services" offers services like Birthchart Printouts and Character Profiles.

Stones of Our Motherland

Page 3 features an article titled "Meyn Mamvro STONES OF OUR MOTHERLAND," which touches upon "EARTH ENERGIES ANCIENT STONES SACRED SITES * PAGANISM LEYPATHS CORNISH PRE-HISTORY & CULTURE * MEGALITHIC MYSTERIES* LEGENDS & FOLKLORE." The article discusses an incident in the late summer of 2003 where the Neolithic monument of Chûn Quoit was found to have been interfered with. Gaps in the stonework were filled with stones and vegetation, and a fire pit was built inside, raising concerns about potential damage and irresponsible actions. The author questions how to prevent such occurrences, noting that while no monuments have been destroyed beyond repair, past incidents like the Mên-an-Tol and Lanyon Quoit fire bomb incident in 1999, and minor damage to the Merry Maidens, highlight the vulnerability of these sites. The article suggests that while most visitors are responsible, "mindless vandals, or perhaps what is worse, well-meaning but ignorant 'New-Age' types" can cause damage. The idea of erecting educational boards is considered but dismissed due to potential unsightliness and vandalism. The article then shifts to a more positive note regarding the Bapistry or Well-Chapel at Madron, which has undergone repairs by the Historic Environment Service and is receiving attention from the Madron Community Forum for management works and water flow improvements.

News Page

Page 4 presents a "news page" from the "cornish earth Mysteries Group." It recounts the 5th Annual Trencrom Hill Lammas Picnic in August 2003, followed by a Pagan Moot Lammas ritual. The Summer activities concluded with a walk by Rory Te'Tigo on "Sacred Landscape, Holy Waters" on September 7th, which visited Chapel Carn Brea, Bartinney, and Carn Euny wells. The Autumn series of talks began on September 25th with a presentation by Julie Walker from the Isle of Man on "Manx Island Essences." On October 30th, Michèle Brown gave a presentation on "Shamanic Practices," discussing its use in healing and justice and connecting with spirits. On November 27th, Geraldine Andrew and Cheryl Straffon presented "Sacred Ireland," taking the audience on a geographical, mythological, and sacred journey through Ireland's sites.

Penwith Pagan Moot

Page 5 features an article by Sarah Vivian titled "Penwith Pagan Moot." The author addresses a reader's question about whether rituals are "homemade" or from books, emphasizing the importance of creating rituals that suit the people, occasion, and location. The article describes several "homemade" rituals: at Lammas on Trencrom, a cauldron of abundance was used; for Equinox, a black and white theme was adopted with a tug of war on Sennen beach; and for Samhain, a seven-turn maze was walked at Whitesands Lodge. The article also announces that the monthly moots take place on the second Tuesday of each month at Chy Gwella, 53 Morrab Road, at 7:15 PM. Contact information for local organizers Sarah Vivian and Andy Norfolk is provided.

Readers Write: Looking After Sacred Sites

Pages 6 and 7 contain "Readers Write" submissions concerning the care of sacred sites. Sheila Bright of Cornwall reflects on her experience over twenty years, noting a shift from seeking personal healing at sites to actively helping and protecting them due to increasing damage and threats. She mentions issues at Swallowhead spring, Madron Baptistry, Upper Boscaswell Well, Mên-an-Tol, and Silbury Hill. Stuart Jennings of Weston-Super-Mare also notes improvements in access but laments vandalism and overgrown sites, mentioning specific locations like Sancreed Well and Tregeseal Stone Circle. He contrasts this with the generally welcoming attitude of Penwith farmers. Emma Rawling of Devon writes "A PLEA FOR TOLERANCE," expressing shock at intolerance towards offerings left at sacred sites, such as Sancreed Well. She argues that offerings, even if not handmade or aesthetically pleasing, can hold deep meaning and that judging them is "mean-spirited and small-minded." She advocates for tolerance and responsibility within the pagan community, contrasting it with established religions. The editor notes that these letters raise important concerns about site management and welcomes further comments.

Lost and Found

Page 8 details archaeological finds by "Cornish ace treasure-finder Jonathan Clemes." His previous discoveries include a hoard of over 1000 Roman coins, a Viking silver coin, a Bronze-Age arrow head, and a Celtic brooch. In the current period, he found part of a Roman brooch and a Roman gold coin. The bronze brooch, dating from 55 BCE - 50CE, was found in St.Austell and still bears enamel decoration. The rare Roman gold coin, dated 65-88 BCE, is the only one of its period found in Cornwall and depicts Emperor Nero and the Roman god Jupiter. It is valued at £1200 and likely belonged to a centurion, raising questions about Roman presence in Cornwall. The page also reports on a "CELTIC METAL SPOON DISCOVERED AT CHYSAUSTER," a rare copper alloy spoon believed to be 2000 years old, found by workmen at the Celtic Iron-Age village near Penzance. Charlie Johns of the Historic Environment Service suggests it may have been used for eating shellfish.

Focus on St.Just in Penwith Area

Page 9 focuses on the St.Just in Penwith area. It highlights the "lost" holy well Venton East (discussed further on page 10), a major article on Chapel Carn Brea, and the "Fuggy Holes" article on Pendeen fogou. Recent publications have revealed new facts about St.Just, including a Bronze-Age Barrow on Carn Bosavern and the medieval Plen-an-Gwarry, which may have originally been an Iron-Age prehistoric Round. Recent fires on Kenidjack Common have revealed more of the original Bronze Age landscape, including stone patterns and enclosure walls. The article suggests a pattern of sacred hilltops with settlements below, looking up towards the hilltops as dwellings of gods and goddesses.

Venton East - The Search for the Enigmatic Holy Well of St.Just

Page 10 features an article by Rory Te'Tigo titled "VENTON EAST - THE SEARCH FOR THE ENIGMATIC HOLY WELL OF ST.JUST." The author, who describes himself as a "field variation sensitive" or "Finder," has found numerous standing stones, holed stones, altar stones, and cup-marked stones in West Penwith. The article discusses the search for Venton East, the Holy Well of St.Just, noting that it has allegedly not been seen for at least 100 years. Various locations are proposed, including Venton East Hill, Well Moor, and near the Vicarage Gardens. The article mentions that the well may have been contaminated by effluent from the church square and subsequently closed. New information received during the year has radically changed ideas and may have led to the discovery of the well's actual location.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of preserving and understanding Cornwall's ancient stones and sacred sites. There is a recurring theme of protecting these sites from vandalism and damage, coupled with a call for tolerance and respect within the pagan community regarding different forms of worship and offerings. The magazine actively promotes local archaeological discoveries and historical research, featuring articles by local experts and enthusiasts. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocacy for the preservation of heritage, coupled with an inclusive approach to pagan practices and beliefs. The publication serves as a platform for community events, discussions, and the sharing of knowledge related to Earth Mysteries and Cornish folklore.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 53
Date: Winter-Spring 2004

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO delves into the rich history and archaeology of Cornwall, focusing on ancient wells and ceremonial sites. It features detailed investigations into local folklore and historical records to uncover the significance of these locations.

The Search for Venton East Holy Well

The lead article details the author's investigation into the location of Venton East Holy Well in St.Just. Initially approached by a local resident, Fiona O'Cleary, the author visited a site near Well Moor Field, which was assumed to have been filled in. However, a subsequent review of a 1857 map of Tin Mining Loads and Mining Claims revealed that the area had changed significantly. The map indicated that the well was located within an original, larger Well Moor Field and near a peculiar mineral rights boundary, suggesting its importance as a water source for tin mining. A later account from John Harry of St.Just, whose mother used an Iron Pump in the SW corner of Well Moor Field as a drinking water source in her youth, provided a crucial clue. This led to the probable identification of Venton East Holy Well in that corner, possibly accessed by an ancient footpath from the church. Plans are underway to seek permission to explore this area further. The article also mentions a separate, more utilitarian well, Well Moor Field Well, in the NNW corner, used by nearby cottages.

Chapel Carn Brea - A Ceremonial Centre

Authored by Paul Bonnington, Archaeological Adviser to the National Trust in West Cornwall, this extensive piece examines Chapel Carn Brea as a significant ceremonial centre. Situated in the south-west of West Penwith, the hill, described as Britain's 'first and last hill', rises over 200 metres and is visible from afar. A 1990 survey by the Cornwall Archaeological Unit for the National Trust identified numerous archaeological features, including prehistoric barrows, a medieval chapel site, and WWII installations. The article focuses on the foremost sites and their role in the Bronze Age ceremonial landscape.

The Barrows Described

The 1990 survey identified at least eleven barrows on Chapel Carn Brea. Seven remain, showing signs of intrusion. Notable sites include an Early Neolithic long-mound and a large Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age (EBA) summit cairn. The long-cairn, an 11m linear stone mound, is oriented NNW to SSE and may have had an internal structure. Radiocarbon evidence places it in the Early Neolithic period (c. 4400-3000 BC). The summit cairn, described as a 'prestige barrow', dates from the Late Neolithic/EBA periods (c. 2500-1500 BC). Excavated by W.C. Borlase in 1872 and 1879, it was found to be a large stone cairn (21m diameter, 5m height) with a stepped wall and three concentric walls, enclosing two stone-lined chambers or 'cists' containing pot sherds and cremated bone. Borlase reconstructed the mound to retain visibility for seafarers.

Further Barrows and Typology

Two other barrows are located near the summit cairn, and three on the lower western slopes. These are 'kerbed-cairns', small stone mounds with circular or oval kerbs, common EBA types. One example excavated in 1907 contained a stone-lined cist with an urned cremation burial and flint objects, suggesting it might have been a 'cemetery mound'. The article notes that while barrows are often assumed to be graves, over 45% of Cornish barrows excavated with modern techniques held no burials, suggesting their purpose was more symbolic, using human remains and other materials to culturally validate the monument.

Significance and Interpretation

The scale and complexity of the long- and summit-cairns suggest a tremendous human effort over many years. Ethnographic evidence indicates that the creation and development of such monuments were crucial for establishing and maintaining religious ideologies and power structures. The prominent positioning of these cairns served as a deliberate strategy to create a visible cultural presence in the landscape, strengthening community links and territorial roles. The article posits that the most compelling factor in their significance was their perception as an 'ancestral presence' by EBA people. The inclusion of local oral histories and legends would have further cemented their symbolic importance. The article concludes that these monuments, along with the hill itself, played a crucial role in how people explained their origins and the world around them, supported by archaeological evidence of long-term human activity in the area.

Cornwall's Colourful Sites

• This section features photographic highlights of ancient places and events from 2003. Images include:
• Snow falls at the Mên-an-Tol in January, photographed by Cheryl Straffon.
• Padstow's colourful maypole on Obby Oss Day, photographed by Sheila Bright.
• The Lady of the Flowers at Midsummer Bonfire on Chapel Carn Brea, photographed by H. Davies.
• A standing stone being replaced at Gûn Rith in the Summer, photographed by Ann Preston-Jones.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of local history, folklore, archaeology, and landscape in Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on uncovering hidden histories and the significance of ancient sites, often through detailed research and the integration of oral traditions with archaeological evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep appreciation for Cornwall's heritage, aiming to educate readers about its rich and complex past, particularly concerning prehistoric ceremonial practices and the enduring presence of ancient sites in the modern landscape.

MEYN MAMVRO | 53 | Winter-Spring 2004 is an issue dedicated to exploring ancient sites and landscapes, primarily in Cornwall, with a focus on archaeological significance, spiritual connections, and pagan traditions. The magazine features articles on ceremonial landscapes, prehistoric monuments, and unique underground structures known as fogous.

Chapel Carn Brea as a Primary Foci in the EBA Ceremonial Landscape

This article posits that Chapel Carn Brea was a significant focal point in the Early Bronze Age (EBA) ceremonial landscape. It highlights the presence of Britain's most westerly known long-cairn and the foundations of the region's largest round-barrow on the hill. The author discusses how the arrangement of post-Neolithic monuments surrounding Chapel Carn Brea reflects its importance. Numerous local sites, including disc-barrow clusters on Bartinney and Caer Bran, and EBA kerbed-cairns like the Carn Creis cemetery mound, are cited as examples of sites deliberately positioned to have a clear view of Chapel Carn Brea. This pattern is compared to similar phenomena observed around Stonehenge and Cranbourne Chase in Wessex, and Carn Galva in West Penwith. The conclusion emphasizes that Chapel Carn Brea, imbued with myth and legend, was a symbolic resource that played a crucial role in shaping the ceremonial landscape, influencing the creation and significance of monuments built on and around it.

My Favourite Fuggy Holes: 2: Pendeen Fogou

Authored by Wella Penwrath, this piece describes a personal visit to the Pendeen fogou, a type of underground structure also known as a 'fuggy-hole'. The author details the approach through a muddy farmyard and the striking position of the fogou, imagining it as part of a Celtic Courtyard House settlement. Upon entering, there is an abrupt change to darkness and stillness. The passage is described as being about 5ft high, with cold granite slabs. A distinctive quartz stone is noted at a sharp turn to the north-west, which the author speculates might have been a signal or a deliberate alignment. A smaller, lower entrance, about 1.5ft high and 2ft wide, leads to a 'creep passage' which requires crawling. This passage, approximately 25.5ft long, is described as a claustrophobic experience in the dark. The article suggests that this creep passage might have been the original entrance, deliberately aligned to face the rising Midsummer solstice sun, allowing initiates to follow the sun into the fogou. The author posits a ritualistic scenario where initiates would wait for the sunrise, crawl into the fogou, and later turn into the NW passage to witness the sunset. The experience of leaving the fogou is likened to returning from another dimension. The article also mentions Dr. Borlase, an antiquarian who once lived at the nearby Manor House.

Bodean Fogou Excavated

This section reports on a fogou site newly discovered in 1991 on the Lizard Peninsula, near Manaccan, which is now being excavated by a team from the Historic Environment Section. This is noted as the first newly-discovered fogou site to be excavated using modern methods. The site was first mentioned by Polwhele in the 19th century. An exploratory trench and magnetometer survey revealed a passage of about 85ft, oriented north-easterly. The fogou appeared to be within a rectangular enclosure and may have been part of an Iron-Age settlement. Further results are anticipated.

Genius Loci - The Spirit of Place

This is an advertisement for a project promoting the sacred landscape of Cornwall through art, music, crafts, and teachings. It lists several individuals and organizations involved, including Sue Aston, Cassandra Latham, Gaia's Garden, Jack Hemming, Sarah Vivian, and others. It also mentions images of Sacred Cornwall, poetry, and folklore, with a significant online presence (over 500,000 hits per month).

Cornish Book Publishers: Men-an-Tol Studio Publications

This feature introduces Men-an-Tol Studio Publications, the publishing arm of Ian McNeil Cooke, author of many books on ancient sites. The studio is located near the Mên-an-Tol. The article lists several available books by Ian McNeil Cooke, including guides to various Cornish sites, 'Journey to the Stones: Ancient Sites and Pagan Mysteries of Celtic Cornwall', and 'Mother and Son: The Cornish Fogou'. Prices for these books, including postage and packing, are provided. The section also lists reprints of antiquarian works and provides contact details for The Mên-an-Tol Studio.

The Pipers Tune

This article discusses a Cornish Bronze Age barrow that was put up for sale by rock musician Nic Potter. It was offered at auction in London with a reserve price of £20,000, but the highest bid was £17,000, leading to its withdrawal from sale. Nic Potter had originally listed it online for £150,000 and expressed relief that it wasn't sold, stating the barrow was 'beyond value' and a place of peace and inspiration. The barrow, approximately 4000 years old, lies on land owned by Potter near Nancledra and is believed to be the largest barrow in Cornwall. The article also mentions the sale of Rosemerryn at Lamorna, which includes the Celtic Iron-Age fogou of Boleigh and has been a centre for spiritual courses. The property is listed for £525,000, with additional land and buildings offered for £175,000. The fogou was investigated by 'Time Team' and revealed evidence of two Iron Age round houses, indicating over 2000 years of occupation.

Exchange Magazines

This section provides a directory of various magazines related to earth mysteries, paganism, folklore, and ancient sites, along with their subscription prices and website details. It includes titles such as Northern Earth, Touchstone, FOGS, Caerdroia, RILKO, Celtic Connections, Pendragon, The Cauldron, Wood and Water, Quest, The Silver Wheel, The Hedgewytch, Pagan Dawn, Pentacle, Cornish Pagan Wheel, and Goddess Alive!

Noticeboard

The Noticeboard section contains listings for upcoming events and activities:

• Cornish Earth Mysteries: A Winter/Spring Programme 2004 featuring talks on topics like 'The Chakras and Cundalini' and 'Chapel Carn Brea'. Membership details for CEMG are provided.
• Pagan Moots: Listings for regular pagan meetups in Penzance, Truro/Falmouth, St.Austell, and Bude, with contact telephone numbers.
• Friends of the Witchcraft Museum: Information about regular events and gatherings at the museum in Boscastle.
• PF Devon & Cornwall Spring Conference: Details of a conference in Kilkhampton, N.Cornwall, with speakers on Celtic Gods & Goddesses, The Moon, and Sacred Sites.
• Beltane Celebrations: A schedule of events including a Maypole Dance, Obby Oss Day, Pagan Moots, Helston Flora Day, and a Three Wells Walk.
• Earth, Health & Mystic Fayre: An event in Penzance with workshops and talks.

News Page

This section summarizes recent events and activities:

• Summer 2003: The 5th Annual Trencrom Hill Lammas Picnic and Pagan Moot Lammas ritual are mentioned, along with a walk by Rory Te'Tigo on 'Sacred Landscape, Holy Waters', visiting Chapel Carn Brea, Bartinney, and Carn Euny wells.
• Autumn Talks: A presentation by Julie Walker from the Isle of Man on 'Manx Island Essences' is described, involving a guided pilgrimage on a map.
• Shamanic Practices: A presentation by Michèle Brown on 'Shamanic Practices', covering origins, healing, justice, and connecting with spirits and ancestors.
• Sacred Ireland: A slide presentation by Geraldine Andrew & Cheryl Straffon on sacred sites in Ireland, including stone circles, dolmens, and wells.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an interest in ancient British, particularly Cornish, heritage, focusing on archaeological sites, their historical and spiritual significance, and their connection to pagan and earth-based traditions. There is a strong emphasis on the landscape as a living entity, with articles exploring the spiritual and mythological dimensions of these places. The editorial stance appears to be one of celebrating and preserving this heritage, encouraging exploration and understanding of these ancient sites and their associated belief systems. The inclusion of event listings and publisher information further supports this focus on community and continued engagement with the subject matter.