Meyn Mamvro - No 066 - Summer 2008

Magazine Overview

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: No. 66
Date: Summer 2008
Price: £2.50
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, a magazine dedicated to ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall, delves into a variety of archaeological and historical topics. The cover highlights key articles on 'THE HURLERS CIRCLES & ALIGNMENTS', 'CELTIC TOTEM ANIMALS', 'TIME TEAM', 'CASPN & FOCAS', 'DOWSING', and 'NEWS'. The magazine also notes that all photos are now in full colour.

Contents

The issue features an editorial, dowsing news, CASPN news, general news, and several in-depth articles:

• Editorial: Discusses the continuous flow of new discoveries and ideas about ancient sites in Cornwall over the magazine's 22-year history, highlighting the Hurlers stone circle and a new Roman fort discovery at Calstock.
• Dowsing News: Reports on site visits by the West Cornwall Dowsers Group to various locations including Crowan Beacon, Crowan Church, Men Amber, and Nine Maidens Stone Circle, detailing findings related to energy lines and stone alignments.
• CASPN News: Covers the Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network's activities, including organizing a 'Pathways to the Past' weekend, monitoring damage and vandalism at ancient sites, and practical site clearance work.
• News: Includes a report on the 'Tremethick Cross Hit & Broken' due to a lorry accident, and an announcement that archaeologists identify the Deep Tye Farm circle henge site as an astronomical observatory. It also details the discovery of a third Roman fort at Calstock, potentially near a silver mine.
• Time Team comes to Padstow: Chronicles the Channel 4 TV programme's investigation into a prehistoric trading site at Lellizzick near Padstow, revealing evidence of round houses, Iron Age and Romano-Celtic occupation, and trade links with the Mediterranean.
• Stargazing at the Hurlers: Explores new theories about the Hurlers triple stone circle, including Brian Sheen's hypothesis that they were built to observe Orion's Belt at the Winter Solstice. It also presents objections and alternative theories from researchers like Andy Norfolk and Roger Farnworth.
• The Hurlers - Sightlines to the Sun: Joanna Tagney details her research on sunrise alignments at the Hurlers central circle, identifying alignments for eight key points on the solar wheel of the year, despite the circle's restoration.
• In-Site: The Hurlers: (Referenced on page 12-13, content not provided in scan)
• Remote & Ancient Places in W.Penwith: (Referenced on page 14, content not provided in scan)
• Celtic Totem Animals: (Referenced on page 16, content not provided in scan)
• Penwith Pagan Moot: (Referenced on page 22, content not provided in scan)
• Book Review: (Referenced on page 23, content not provided in scan)
• The Pipers Tune: (Referenced on page 24, content not provided in scan)

Editorial Stance and Publisher Information

The editorial emphasizes the ongoing discoveries in Cornwall and encourages readers to submit their findings. It highlights the work of the West Cornwall Dowsers Group in identifying new sites and energy lines. The magazine also announces an increase in the annual subscription price from £7.50 to £8.00 due to rising postal rates, while the cover price remains £2.50. PayPal is now accepted for subscriptions via the website.

The magazine is published by Meyn Mamvro, with a contact address in St.Just, Penzance, Cornwall. It also lists contact details for dowsing groups and related organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reinforces Meyn Mamvro's commitment to exploring Cornwall's rich history of ancient sites, earth energies, and pagan traditions. There is a strong focus on archaeoastronomy, with detailed investigations into the astronomical alignments of megalithic sites like The Hurlers. The magazine actively promotes local research and dowsing activities, encouraging community involvement in uncovering and protecting these sites. The editorial stance is one of enthusiastic discovery and a desire to share new knowledge about Cornwall's past, while also addressing practical matters like site preservation and subscription updates.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, number 66, published in Summer 2008, focuses on archaeological and mythological sites, with a prominent feature on 'The Hurlers Stone Circle' in Cornwall. The magazine explores ancient alignments, Celtic beliefs, and the natural landscape.

The Hurlers Stone Circle

The Hurlers stone circle is presented as a complex site with three main circles arranged in a NNE/SSW direction on Bodmin Moor. The southernmost circle is largely ruined, while the central circle is the best preserved, originally having 29 stones, similar to the northern circle. Excavations in 1935 revealed a floor of quartz crystals in the central circle, with modern dowsers also suggesting this for other stone circles. Quartz may have been considered sacred and its piezo-electric qualities potentially known to builders.

Astronomical Alignments

The issue details numerous astronomical alignments observed at the Hurlers, particularly focusing on sunrise points for the solstices and equinoxes, as well as cross-quarter days like Beltane and Samhain. A notable phenomenon occurs at Beltane sunrise, where the sun's disc aligns precisely with the dip in stone 16, seventeen minutes after sunrise. This alignment involves stone 5 and the upright centre stone, and is described as a beautiful spectacle.

• Alignments are meticulously recorded for various dates:
• Summer Solstice (June 21st 2004): Stone 6 - centre post - stone 17 - horizon point.
• Lammas (Aug 8th 2006): Stone 5 - recumbent centre stone - horizon point.
• Autumn Equinox (Sept 21st 2005): Stone 3 - centre post - stone 14 - horizon point.
• Samhain (Nov 5th 2006): Stone 1 - left edge of recumbent centre stone - stone 12 - horizon point.
• Winter Solstice (Dec 22nd 2003 & Dec 21st 2004): Stone 27 - centre post - stone 11 - horizon point.
• Imbolc (Feb 4th 2007): Stone 1 - left edge of recumbent centre stone - stone 12 - horizon point.
• Spring Equinox (Mar 21st 2007): Stone 3 - centre post - stone 14 - horizon point.
• Beltane (May 6th 2006): Stone 5 - recumbent centre stone - horizon point.

Alignments on 'halfway points' between solstices and equinoxes are noted as being stronger than those on the first of the month. For instance, on November 1st, stone 1 aligned with the centre upright and sunrise point, while on November 5th, stone 1 aligned with the recumbent centre stone, stone 12, and the sunrise point, creating a four-point alignment.

Historical Context and Theories

Norman Lockyer's work is cited, suggesting that early British circle builders (around 2200 BCE) honored a 'May-year' rather than a 'solstice-oriented year', which became prominent around 1600 BCE. The Hurlers, potentially dating to the 3rd millennium BCE, could therefore be a 'May-year' temple. The alignment along the embanked avenue on west Craddock Moor, linking to the Hurlers, is reputedly the line of the Samhain/Imbolc sunrise and also the Beltane eve sunset.

Processional Routes and Landscape Connections

John Barnatt's research suggests a processional routeway from the Hurlers circles, via Rillaton Barrow, to Stowe's Hill. A sunken 'green-lane' pathway also connects the southern Hurlers circle to Craddock Moor. The distance from Stowe's Pound to the northern Hurlers circle is similar to that from Craddock Moor stone circle to the southern Hurlers circle. Speculation exists about signaling the start of processions by fire on Stowe's Hill and gathering in the central circle for celebrations.

The Hurlers-Craddock Moor complex is described as having many stories yet to be unravelled, with its history preserved despite centuries of mining and quarrying.

The Pipers and Potential Fourth Circle

To the west of the Hurlers complex are two outlying menhirs known as The Pipers. While their originality is debated due to their shape, solstical alignments have been proposed. Archaeologist Peter Herring suggests the possibility of a fourth, smaller circle lying northeast of the existing three, with remains of stones indicating a potential circle or cairn circle. The proximity of this potential circle to the northernmost Hurlers suggests a possible fifth circle might have existed between them.

Caradon Hill Alignments

Another observation is that the southernmost Hurlers circle is aligned with the Craddock Moor stone circle, indicating the Samhain sunrise or Beltane sunset. The circles are also aligned with barrows on Caradon Hill to the southeast. Christian O'Brien proposed that an observer in one of the Hurlers circles between October and February could watch the sun rise behind successive barrows on Caradon Hill, marking the start of the process and allowing daily monitoring of the sun's progress.

Remote & Ancient Places in West Penwith: Chyenhal Moor

Raymond Cox's article explores Chyenhal Moor in West Penwith, describing it as a naturalist's paradise and a wetland area. Despite its remote feel, several alignments cross or border the moor, suggesting subtle human influence. Three alignments are noted as crossing the moor:
1. West Lanyon Quoit - Ennis Farm menhir - Chyenhal menhir.
2. Missing stone - Boscawen-un stone circle - Trenuggo cross - Tresvennack Pillar menhir - church at Perranuthno.
3. Trevervan menhir - Kerris menhir - Stones at Faughan.

Two additional lines border the moor:
1. Chyagwens menhir - Tresvennack Pillar menhir - Stones at Faughan.
2. Cairn on west coast - Carn Green - The Blind Fiddler menhir - Tresvennack Pillar menhir - Roskilly Rocks.

The article includes a map illustrating these locations and alignments.

Celtic Totem Animals

Cheryl Straffon and Gloria Falconbridge discuss the deep connection between Celtic peoples and the natural world, particularly animals. Animals were believed to inhabit both the mundane and Otherworld, acting as mediators and teachers. The Gundestrup Cauldron panel, depicting the horned God Cernunnos surrounded by animals, illustrates this connection.

Animals in Celtic Tales

While Christian monks rationalized animal roles in tales, the underlying mythological significance remains. Stories from the Welsh Mabinogi, Irish mythic cycles, and Arthurian legends, as well as collections by William Bottrell and Robert Hunt, reveal the importance of animals. These tales often involve shape-shifting and the embodiment of animals, reflecting shamanic practices and the cycles of life and rebirth.

Horses in Celtic Mythology

Horses are prominent symbols of power and the Celtic Otherworld. The horse Goddesses Epona, Rhiannon, and Macha are discussed. Horses were revered for their ability to travel between worlds, opening gates at Beltane and carrying souls to the Underworld at Samhain. Cornish tales feature spirit-horses and shape-shifting into horses.

Cows and Bulls in Celtic Culture

Cattle symbolized wealth and power, as commemorated in 'The Cattle Raid of Cooley'. To the Celts, the cow represented the sacredness of motherhood, with milk symbolizing the life force. Milk from a sacred cow was a form of communion with the Goddess, and Saint Bridget was nourished by a cow from the Otherworld.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of ancient sites, landscape, and mythology. There is a strong emphasis on astronomical alignments in megalithic structures and the enduring influence of Celtic beliefs and symbolism, particularly concerning animals. The editorial stance appears to be one of scholarly inquiry and appreciation for the rich history and potential mysteries of these ancient sites and traditions. The publication encourages investigation and celebrates the enduring connection between humanity, nature, and the spiritual world.

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, number 66, published in Summer 2008, focuses on themes of Celtic mythology, folklore, animal symbolism, and pagan practices, with a particular emphasis on Cornwall.

Animals in Celtic Mythology and Folklore

The magazine explores the deep significance of various animals within Celtic traditions. Cows are presented as symbols of supernatural nourishment, appearing in Cornish tales and associated with the Little People. Bulls are linked to deities of poetry, healing, and the Underworld, featuring in Irish creation myths and Cornish stories.

Deers, including White Does and Stags, are depicted as frequent visitors from the Otherworld, often leading people to mystical encounters. The story of Robert, Earl of Cornwall, recounts an encounter with a black goat and an apparition of William Rufus, linking both to the Otherworld.

Pigs and boars are recognized as symbols of strength and power, revered as sacred animals of Mother Earth and associated with the Underworld, serving as guides for shamanic journeys. In Welsh myth, the Goddess Cerridwen's cauldron is linked to the Underworld and regeneration.

Wolves and dogs are seen as companions of deities like Cernunnos and as spirit guides for shamanic journeys. They are also connected to the Otherworld and act as guardians. Hounds, once companions of heroes, later became associated with the Devil and the Wild Hunt.

Hares and cats held sacred status, with hares invoked by Queen Boudica and cats linked to oracular shrines. Both animals later became associated with witches and wise women, appearing in numerous Cornish tales as familiars or shape-shifters.

Birds, including eagles, ravens, hawks, owls, cranes, geese, and swans, were particularly sacred. They were often seen as embodied spirits or emissaries from the Otherworld, capable of transforming or carrying messages. The Morrighan, an Irish triple Goddess of death, appears as a battle crow, and the Celtic God Bran's name means 'raven'. Magpies were believed to bring good or bad luck and could converse with humans. Special mention is given to the cuckoo, crane, and swan, with the swan representing the transition of the soul.

Overall, these animals were not only symbolic but also served as crucial links to the Otherworld, acting as helpers, teachers, and protectors guiding humanity towards spiritual enlightenment.

Book Review: The Tregerthen Horror

A book review of Paul Newman's "The Tregerthen Horror" (Abraxas Editions, 2005) is presented. The book is described as a non-fiction investigation into "Aleister Crowley and a Mysterious Death in a Haunted Cottage in Cornwall." The reviewer notes that the book covers a wide cast of characters, including D.H. Lawrence, Katherine Mansfield, and Peter Warlock, and meanders through various occult and historical threads. While some parts are considered fascinating, others are deemed tedious and speculative. The review concludes that while Newman's "Solution" to the mystery is not definitive, he thoroughly explores the subject.

Archaeological Findings: The Pipers Tune

This section details further information about mysterious "swan pits" discovered at Jacqui Wood's experimental archaeology site at Saveock. These feather-lined pits, approximately 42cm long x 35cm wide x 17cm deep, were found to contain white feathers laid skin-side out, a swan pelt, and stones. Eight more pits were excavated, with one containing the bodies of two magpies and over 55 eggs of various sizes, some with fully formed chicks. Radiocarbon dating places one pit at 1640CE, during the Civil War. Jacqui Wood suggests the pits were used for pagan ritual purposes, possibly as offerings to St. Bridget, and speculates that their use by young brides seeking pregnancy might explain the lack of written records due to the Puritanical climate of the time.

Paganism and Spirituality Events

The magazine highlights pagan activities and events. The "Penwith Pagan Moot" is described as holding seasonal ritual celebrations for the eight festivals of the year, monthly moot meetings, and outings for ancient sacred site clearances. Specific rituals for Yule, Imbolc, and the Spring Equinox in Sancreed are detailed, involving processions, offerings, and symbolic cleansing fires. The St.Clether Holy Well Chapel's Spring Equinox and upcoming Summer Solstice celebrations are also mentioned.

A Radio Cornwall faith programme featuring a debate on spirituality in Cornwall, including Celtic Christianity, Buddhism, and Paganism, is noted as being positive and civilized.

Noticeboard and Exchange Magazines

The "Noticeboard" section lists various upcoming events related to Beltane/Summer, Cornish Earth Mysteries, Ancient Sites Clear-Ups, Pagan Moots, and Magic, Mystery & Folklore Walks across Cornwall. An "Exchange Magazines" section provides subscription details for various publications related to Earth Mysteries, Paganism, and Arthurian topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rich tapestry of Celtic mythology and folklore, the symbolic power of animals, and the vibrant practices of modern paganism, particularly within the Cornish landscape. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and documentation of these traditions, presenting them as integral parts of cultural heritage and spiritual practice. The magazine acts as a platform for sharing local folklore, archaeological discoveries, and contemporary pagan activities, fostering a sense of community and interest in these subjects.