Meyn Mamvro - No 061 - Autumn 2006

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 61, Autumn 2006, is a magazine dedicated to ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall. This issue marks the magazine's 20th anniversary, having first been published in December 1986. It features a special 4-page supplement on the history of the magazine and a themed issue focusing on the earliest inhabitants of Cornwall: the Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Early Bronze Age peoples.

Editorial Stance and Anniversary

The editorial, written by the Editor (CS), reflects on the 20 years of Meyn Mamvro, noting its longevity compared to other similar magazines that have ceased publication. The magazine has remained true to its roots in Cornwall, serving readers who love and care about the county's ancient sites. The Editor mentions personal projects over the years, including writing books, running a publishing business, tour guiding, and editing 'Goddess Alive!', but reaffirms that her heart remains in Cornwall and she will continue producing Meyn Mamvro.

The editorial also highlights significant developments, particularly the growth of CASPN (Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network) and its support group FOCAS (Friends of Cornwall's Ancient Sites). The Editor, as CASPN Chairwoman, is taking on the role of Project Manager for grant-funded outputs aimed at preserving megalithic sites in Cornwall.

Contents

The contents page lists a variety of articles and features:

• Editorial
• Cornish Earth Mysteries Group
• CASPN News Round-up
• Penwith Pagan Moot
• News:
• Mesolithic: Hunter-Gatherer Stations in West Penwith - Rory Te'Tigo
• Cornwall's Colourful Sites - Neolithic Dolmens
• Neolithic: Recent Cornish Neolithic Sites
• Late Neolithic/Early BA: Botrea Barrows: a ceremonial path
• Pathways to the Past: Trendrine Ley Walk - Cheryl Straffon
• Book Reviews
• The Pipers Tune

The issue also includes an extra 4-page pull-out centre section celebrating 20 Years of Meyn Mamvro.

News and Events

News section covers several local events and discoveries:

• 18th Annual Maypole Dance: Held on Carn Bosavern on April 30th, it attracted over 30 people despite mizzly weather.
• The Three Wells Walk: On May 8th, 19 people participated in a walk to The Three Wells, collecting water for a summer blessing.
• Summer Walks and Site Visits: On June 4th, a group led by Bart O'Farrell from the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group (CEMG) went Dowsing down the Lizard, visiting Dry Tree standing stone and a Bronze Age barrow.
• Treen Circular Walk: On July 2nd, Cheryl Straffon led 28 people on a walk linking lesser-known sites, including Treen Entrance Graves, Bosporthennis Beehive Hut, Bosporthennis Quoit, and Treen Circle. The group discussed the enigmatic Treen Circle, with one dowser suggesting it was built around 2500 BCE for ritual purposes.
• Next Issue: Reports on August (Tregonning Hill) and September (Holywell Cave) visits are promised.

CASPN News Round-up details the Adopt-a-Site Archaeological Monitoring Scheme, a new initiative by CASPN to recruit volunteers to monitor ancient sites. A database of sites has been created, and volunteers are briefed on what to look for. The scheme aims to cover all types of ancient monuments and is proving successful, though more volunteers are needed.

FOCAS Clear-ups reports on monthly clear-ups of ancient sites, including Boscawen-ûn Circle, Sperris Quoit, and Fenton Bebibell well. The Fenton Bebibell well, meaning 'well of the little people', was visited on Good Friday, and a tradition of baptising dolls in the well was revived.

Penwith Pagan Moot by Gemma Gary describes two recent rituals: a Beltane ritual at Boscawen-ûn stone circle to open the gates of Summer, and a Midsummer celebration on Sennen Beach involving a sun-disk ritual and a serpent dance.

News News News News News News News News News section reports on:

• Upset at Madron Well Improvements: Improvements to Madron Baptistry and Well, including a new pathway, caused local protest. Therese Clemo criticized the utilitarian nature of the pathway, while Ann Preston-Jones of HES defended the work as necessary for site improvement.
• Murder Trial of Paganism/Witchcraft: A 12-week trial involved Margaret James, accused of conspiring to murder Peter Solheim. Solheim was described as obsessed with the occult, and James was found guilty and sentenced to 20 years, though the actual murderers remain unknown.
• Rare Roman Burial Urns Excavated: Two Roman burial urns from the 1stC CE were found at Roseland Parc in Tregony, representing a rare find of early Roman remains in Cornwall. The urns are undergoing specialist tests.

Mesolithic: Hunter-Gatherer Stations in West Penwith

This article by Rory Te'Tigo explores Hunter-Gatherer Stations in West Penwith, dating from approximately 8000-4500 BCE. It defines these stations as campsites where humans gained sustenance through seasonal movements. Evidence found at these sites includes fire pits, dwelling platforms, and worked bone, deer antler, and flint. The article discusses the Mesolithic period, the semi-nomadic lifestyle, and the transition to farming. It suggests looking for stations near water and shelter, and speculates on social structures like 'The Band' and 'The Clan'. The average distance between stations in West Penwith is estimated at 800 yards. Some sites are larger and richer in flint, suggesting longer use or larger groups. The article also discusses the origin of flint, suggesting it primarily came from beaches, possibly from shipwrecks, and notes that natural flint sources are not found in West Penwith, with nearest geological sources in Devon and Portland.

Neolithic and Early Bronze Age Sites

• Cornwall's Colourful Sites - Neolithic Dolmens: This section is listed in the contents but not detailed in the provided pages.
• Neolithic: Recent Cornish Neolithic Sites: This section is listed in the contents but not detailed in the provided pages.
• Late Neolithic/Early BA: Botrea Barrows: a ceremonial path: This section is listed in the contents but not detailed in the provided pages.
• Pathways to the Past: Trendrine Ley Walk - Cheryl Straffon: This section is listed in the contents but not detailed in the provided pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Meyn Mamvro are the deep history of Cornwall, focusing on its earliest inhabitants and ancient sites. There is a strong emphasis on the preservation and understanding of these sites, as evidenced by the work of CASPN and FOCAS. Paganism and earth energies are also prominent, particularly in the reports on the Penwith Pagan Moot. The magazine maintains a commitment to providing fresh, original material rooted in Cornwall, serving a dedicated readership interested in the county's unique archaeological and cultural heritage. The editorial stance is one of passionate advocacy for Cornwall's ancient landscape and its protection.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 61
Volume: 61
Date: Autumn 2006

This issue of MEYN MAMVRO focuses on archaeological findings in Cornwall, particularly from the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age periods. It explores various aspects of ancient life, including resource distribution, settlement, ritual practices, and landscape use.

How was the flint distributed?

The article discusses three potential methods for the distribution of flint: trade between bands at annual clan meetings, transport by specialized flint traders using travois, or transport by boat. The latter, while risky, offered high profits, especially for supplying flint-less areas like West Penwith. Bartered goods, such as Cornish greenstone axe-heads, were used as payment, with these axes being high-status commodities found as far away as Germany.

What sort of shelter would the Hunter-Gatherers have used?

While little is known definitively, it is presumed that Hunter-Gatherers used structures resembling small Yurts – low, circular, tent-like constructions covered in animal hides. These could be erected or dismantled rapidly, possibly within half an hour.

What could a camp moving have looked like?

Camp moving days, likely predetermined by celestial or environmental events, would have been busy but potentially joyful occasions. The experience is likened to the excitement of the first day of a holiday, reflecting a semi-nomadic past. In areas like Kelynack, old camp moving routes are still reflected in modern roads and footpaths.

What religious and social structures may have existed among Hunter-Gatherers?

Sociological observations suggest Hunter-Gatherer groups often had shamanic faith structures, matriarchal societies, and female deities. Internecine strife was rare. They viewed themselves as 'of the land'. This perception shifted as the migratory cycle ended, with the land becoming 'of the people', leading to the rise of patriarchy and male gods. This period also saw the development of more complex religions aimed at explaining a lost paradise.

The author identifies as a 'Field Variation Sensitive' or 'Finder', regularly walking fields to discover flint and quartz crystals, and often stumbling upon Hunter-Gatherer sites. The close spacing of these sites is noted, with a mention that late Mesolithic to early Neolithic periods saw the advent of farming, potentially blurring the lines between late Hunter-Gatherer stations and early farmsteads.

The article lists 17 sites found by the author, 11 by Ian Blackmore, and 4 by Graham Hill, noting that the distribution map is weighted towards the south of West Penwith due to limited study in the north. It also acknowledges significant flint finds in the northern part of West Penwith.

CORNWALL'S COLOURFUL SITES: DOLMENS FROM THE NEOLITHIC

This section features photographic examples of Neolithic dolmens in Cornwall. Images showcase Lanyon Quoit, Mulfra Quoit, Zennor Quoit, Chûn Quoit, and West Lanyon Quoit from West Penwith, as well as Trethevey Quoit (nr. Liskeard), Carwynnen Quoit (nr. Camborne), Lesquite Quoit (nr. Bodmin), and Pawton Quoit (nr. Wadebridge) from the rest of Cornwall. All photos are credited to C.Straffon.

RECENT CORNISH NEOLITHIC SITES [4000-2500 BCE]

Evidence of Neolithic activity in Cornwall (4000-2500 BCE) is scarce, apart from Tor enclosures and scattered flint finds. The Neolithic period in Cornwall is seen as a transition between the Mesolithic hunter-gatherers and the settled Bronze Age societies.

Recent finds provide more credence to this hypothesis. On Stannon Downs, Bodmin Moor, archaeologist Andy Jones investigated a site with seasonal activity indicated by flint and pottery finds, possibly linked to clearings and pathways. The site is overlooked by Rough Tor, and it's suggested communities congregated there for ceremonial activity. Stannon Stone Circle was built towards the end of this period for ritual purposes.

At Tregarrick Farm, near Roche Rock, 10 Neolithic pits were discovered containing ritual deposits of pottery, flints, and stones. Three stone objects contained quartz, possibly associated with the human spirit, while a fourth, a quern, had symbolic qualities. Cole & Jones suggest these burials were sacrificial acts to propitiate spirits or gods dwelling within Roche Rock, which was perceived as a powerful liminal point.

Cole & Jones also suggest that the site at Stannon Down/Rough Tor was visited seasonally by small groups, possibly for ritual specialists to venerate the spirits of the Rock, with the ubiquity of hazelnuts indicating visits around Harvest time.

Oxford Archaeology discovered an early Neolithic wooden Henge at Deep Tye Farm, near Indian Queens, consisting of 10 post holes in an incomplete arch. This may represent an early form of timber sacred enclosure. Other henges in Cornwall include those at Castilly and the Stripple Stones on Bodmin Moor. Timber circles, not necessarily henges, are also known, such as the Caerloggas Barrows.

A site dating from the late Neolithic/early Bronze Age was found at Lower Boscaswell, West Penwith. A rare pit uncovered by SW Water contained pottery fragments, pebbles, and burnt rocks. Archaeologist Ann Preston-Jones suggests this might be evidence of a closing-down ritual, creating liminal boundaries with the surrounding land.

BOTREA BARROWS - A CEREMONIAL PATH ACROSS THE EARLY LANDSCAPE [LATE NEOLITHIC - EARLY BRONZE AGE 3000-1600 BCE]

The late Neolithic-EBA period saw the construction of stone circles and numerous barrows. Research is now focusing on placing these barrows within the context of a ritual landscape.

Andy Jones identifies the Botrea Barrow cemetery in West Penwith as an example of how Early Bronze Age ancestors carefully placed barrows in relation to surrounding hills and tors, forming a ceremonial pathway. The author walked this landscape, noting the prominent Dry Carn to the north and Botrea Hill to the south. A sacred pathway is suggested to have started at Dry Carn, descended into the valley, and ascended Botrea Hill, with kerbed platform barrows opening up sequentially. The first barrow at SW4032 3141 may have been designed to initiate this pathway. Excavations of a barrow at SW4031 3133 in 1826 yielded arrowheads, possibly sacred objects from hunter-gatherer days.

The third barrow at SW4032 3121 contained a cist with an urn. The fourth barrow at SW4033 3107, 38 metres in diameter, also contained ashes, indicating use for both burial and ceremony. Reaching this barrow offers spectacular vistas of Sancreed Beacon, St. Michael's Mount, the Isles of Scilly, and Carn Kenidjack, described as an awe-inspiring climax to the walk.

Andy Jones states that the cemetery is of interest because it's situated within a wider ceremonial landscape of hilltop cemeteries and enclosures from the Later Neolithic/Early Bronze Age. Prominent hills and the sea likely held strong cosmological associations.

The barrow cemetery had a western arm of three ring-cairns (one destroyed), which converged with the eastern arm of barrows at the southernmost barrow. This western arm may represent a 'pathway of the dead spirits or ancestors'. The walking of these pathways was a means of ceremonially connecting with ancestors and sacred landscape features.

PATHWAYS TO THE PAST: The Trendrine Ley Walk

This article describes the third of three walks in the Gurnards Head-Zennor area of West Penwith, focusing on exploring lesser-known sites along a notable ley line. The walk starts at Gurnards Head and proceeds eastwards past Higher Kerrow Well, leading onto Lady Downs. A track points north to Zennor Quoit, which is visible on the skyline. The route also passes Treen Common Circle and offers an option to visit Mulfra Quoit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the deep history of Cornwall, particularly the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age periods. There is a strong emphasis on archaeological research, the interpretation of ancient landscapes as ritual spaces, and the connection between human activity and the natural environment. The magazine highlights recent discoveries and ongoing research, presenting them in an accessible format for enthusiasts. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting and disseminating knowledge about Cornwall's rich prehistoric heritage, encouraging exploration and appreciation of its ancient sites and the lives of its early inhabitants.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 61
Date: Autumn 2006
Description: This issue of Meyn Mamvro, a magazine focused on ancient stones and sacred sites, particularly in West Penwith, Cornwall, celebrates its 20th anniversary. It features articles on local archaeology, earth mysteries, paganism, and folklore, alongside book and CD reviews, and a noticeboard of events.

Zennor Quoit and Sperris Quoit

The issue details two significant megalithic sites in West Penwith: Zennor Quoit and Sperris Quoit. Zennor Quoit is described as the largest extant quoit in the area, with a large capstone and evidence of an antechamber. Its collapse is attributed to support failure, farmer intervention, and C19th blasting. Archaeologist John Barnett speculates that the facade and capstone may have been visible for ceremonies. Findings at the site include a whetstone and pottery with cord impressions, suggesting ritualistic use beyond burials.

From Zennor Quoit, the article describes a walk eastwards towards the ruins of an old building, then northwards towards Eagles Nest, and continues east to Sperris Quoit. Sperris Quoit is noted as being much smaller than Zennor Quoit, despite their close proximity. It is described as being in the remains of an oval barrow, consisting of one upright stone and three fallen stones. Excavation revealed a small cremation pit outside the chamber, possibly indicating a burial for a child, which might explain the presence of this smaller dolmen nearby.

A Walk Through the Landscape

The article guides the reader on a walk that begins from Sperris Quoit, heading east across moorland along indistinct paths. The route passes the remains of a settlement of hut circles. The walk follows one of John Michell's ley lines, which runs from Boswens menhir to Trendrine Hill barrows. Along the way, it passes a tumulus on Nine Maidens Downs, a stone at SW4448 3623, Zennor Quoit, and a distinctive rock outcrop. A stone structure with a large capstone is noted, recorded as a possible 'cist?' or pseudo-quoit, whose function is unknown but may have served as sightlines for solar alignments. This stretch of track was also where the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group heard an unexplained 'hummadruz' sound in July 1997.

The walk culminates at Trendrine Hill Barrows, which stand on the summit and consist of the remains of two barrows. The larger is a great cairn of stones, 62ft across and 8½ft high, and the smaller is 46ft in diameter and 6½ft high with a kerb surround.

From Trendrine Hill, panoramic views are available, including the breast-shaped mound of Trevalgan Hill, locally known as 'Buttermilk Hill', possibly a feature related to an Earth Goddess celebrated at the midsummer solstice.

The return journey retraces part of the route, passing Sperris Quoit and heading downhill towards Eagles Nest. The article suggests an alternative starting point from a layby on the B3306 road. The route then leads to Tregerthen Farm, where the Zennor Churchway path can be joined to return to Zennor, or continue to Gurnards Head. The possibility of using public transport via an open-top bus on the B3305 road between St. Ives and St.Just is mentioned. Refreshments are available at Zennor and Gurnards Head.

The article concludes by promoting the 'Pathways to the Past' series, with the next issue focusing on The Saint's Way trackway across Cornwall.

Book Reviews

This issue features reviews of two books by Cornish co-authors:

• The Green Man and the Dragon by Paul Broadhurst: Described as the more scholarly of the two, this book explores St.George, the Green Man, and the Knights Templar, ranging widely over legend and history from Cornwall to Egypt.
• In Search of the Southern Serpent by Hamish Miller & Barry Brailsford: This book is presented as two books in one, with Barry Brailsford writing about the Waitaha people of New Zealand and Hamish Miller detailing a dowsing travelogue. The review notes that the styles differ and could have benefited from a professional editor, but highlights the authors' shared love for the land and its legends.

CD Review

Yemaya by Danu Fox: This CD by local artist Danu Fox is reviewed as a beautiful spiritual journey inspired by the natural world. It features songs dedicated to the Yoruban sea goddess Yemaya, Orca, Eagle Calling, Great Spirit, Horse, Wairua, Mother of the Water, Thanksgiving, Full Moon, Wolf, and Golden Arrow. The ethereal vocals are accompanied by piano, flutes, percussion, drum, and violin, creating a meditative feel.

Noticeboard and Events

The magazine includes a comprehensive noticeboard with listings for:

• CORNISH EARTH MYSTERIES: Talks and a Yuletide Gathering are scheduled from September to December.
• WEST CORNWALL DOWSERS: A new group meeting monthly to explore sites.
• ANCIENT SITES CLEAR-UPS: Scheduled events for clearing ancient sites in September, October, November, and December.
• PAGAN MOOTS: Listings for Penzance, Earth Moot (Penzance), Redruth/Camborne, Bodmin Pagan Paths, and Bude.
• NINKA: Cornwall's 16th New Age Festival is scheduled for November 24th-27th.
• FAERY, ANGEL & HEALING FAYRE: An event on October 14th-15th.
• WEEKEND WORKSHOPS: On Witchcraft & Folklore with Steve Patterson.

An email group for the Pagan community in Cornwall has also been set up.

The Pipers Tune: Paganism and Representation

This section discusses the efforts of Pagans in Cornwall to gain representation on SACRE (Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education). Two applications have been submitted, including one from the Pagan Education Network (PEN). The article highlights prejudice encountered by one Christian minister but notes that the matter has been passed to SACRE for consideration. It argues that SACRE must reflect the relative importance of faiths, estimating between 600-750 pagans in Cornwall, making it the third or fourth largest religion.

Liz Allmark: Astrological and Numerological Services

This section advertises astrological and numerological services offered by Liz Allmark, including birthchart printouts, interpretations, and character profiles.

Exchange Magazines

A list of other magazines available for exchange or subscription is provided, categorized under 'Earth Mysteries' and 'Paganism'. Details include publication titles, publishers, prices, and website addresses.

20 Years of Meyn Mamvro

The final section reflects on the 20-year history of Meyn Mamvro, from its first issue in December 1986. It highlights the magazine's consistent focus on ancient stones and sacred sites of West Penwith, its editorial approach, and the wide range of respected writers and researchers who have contributed over the years. The article emphasizes the magazine's commitment to exploring the 'earth mysteries' and 'alternative archaeology' fields, its deep roots in Cornwall, and its dedication to uncovering unique information about the region's ancient sites and phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the archaeology and folklore of ancient megalithic sites in Cornwall, particularly West Penwith. There is a strong emphasis on 'earth mysteries', ley lines, and pagan spirituality, reflecting the magazine's long-standing focus. The editorial stance, as articulated in the 20-year retrospective, is inclusive, research-rooted yet open to speculation, and dedicated to exploring the unique spiritual and anomalous aspects of Cornwall's landscape. The magazine prides itself on providing original and uncommon approaches to its subject matter, fostering a connection between readers and the ancient sites.

Meyn Mamvro, issue 61, published in Autumn 2006, is a magazine dedicated to exploring ancient sites, particularly those in Cornwall, with a focus on both their archaeological and spiritual significance. The publication is celebrating its 20th anniversary, having been in production since 1986.

Artistic Contributions

The magazine has consistently featured artwork on its covers. Initially, Sue Bayfield (née French) produced carefully drawn covers from issue 7 to 12. Following her, Andy Norfolk took over cover duties from issue 13 and has contributed nearly 50 covers to date. Other artists who have provided specially-drawn work include Ian Cooke, the late Penny Harris, Geraldine McCarthy (née Andrew), the late Monica Sjöö, and Sarah Vivian. Notably, Sarah Vivian's 'Honey Down the Stone' was the first colour picture featured in the magazine (issue MM46), paving the way for the popular centre-page spreads of sites in colour, first introduced in the special 50th issue.

Production and Content Philosophy

Meyn Mamvro is produced by a local printer, PlusPrint, which has been involved for 14 years. The magazine is described as not being high-tech or glossy, with the centre colour spread being the extent of its glossiness. While acknowledging that the quality of ordinary photographs can sometimes be wanting and that marks may appear in the text, the editors believe the content is paramount. The magazine's philosophy prioritizes content over glossy appearance, and it is loved by its readers for what it is and what it does.

Spiritual and Holistic Approach

A significant aspect of Meyn Mamvro is its focus on the spiritual dimension of ancient sites, extending beyond mere archaeology and earth mysteries. This 'holistic' approach distinguishes it from other Earth Mysteries publications. While not promoting any single spiritual path, the magazine is sympathetic to paganism and the concept of sacred Land and Mother Earth. It posits that the builders of these sites had sacred reasons for their construction, involving ceremony and ritual. Therefore, the magazine advocates for considering sites in relation to the spirit manifested in the Land. It notes that people continue to visit these sites for spiritual purposes or peace of mind, and Meyn Mamvro aims to preserve and enhance the specialness of these sites, having campaigned for their protection.

Reader Engagement and Community

Readers are highlighted as essential to the magazine's existence. The identity of the first-ever subscriber is mentioned: an American man who subscribed in 1986 and continues to receive the magazine. Subscribers form the backbone of the readership, with over half of the print run going to them. The magazine is sold in shops in Cornwall, and many visitors who purchase an occasional copy become subscribers, some even becoming friends and moving to Cornwall permanently. The magazine values the notes, comments, and letters received with subscriptions, finding the correspondence and ideas received via post and email to be fascinating and rewarding. It describes the readership as feeling like an extended family united by a love for ancient sites, respect for the Land, and fascination with Cornwall's past.

Editorial Perspective and Evolution

The magazine aims to cater to both newcomers and those familiar with ancient sites, providing a mixture of articles and keeping readers updated on news and research. While not possessing the detailed archaeological rigor of publications like 'Cornish Archaeology', Meyn Mamvro is considered unrivalled as a vehicle for staying current with discoveries, research, and background information. The editors note with amusement how concepts once considered 'lunatic fringe', such as alignments and sacred landscapes, are now widely accepted by archaeologists. The past 20 years have also seen a significant growth in the pagan community in Cornwall. The editor, now 20 years older than when she started, expresses an undiminished love for the sites and a passionate desire to protect them. She hopes to continue producing the magazine as long as there is readership and contributions, emphasizing that Meyn Mamvro has produced a wealth of writing and research on Cornwall's sites and prehistory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the enduring significance of ancient sites, the integration of archaeological and spiritual perspectives, the importance of artistic representation, and the value of a dedicated readership. The editorial stance is one of passionate advocacy for the preservation and understanding of these sites, emphasizing their sacred nature and connection to the Land, while acknowledging the evolution of thought in the field and celebrating the magazine's long-standing contribution to the discourse.