Meyn Mamvro - No 070 - Autumn 2009

Magazine Overview

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 70
Date: Autumn 2009
Price: £2.70
Theme: Ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall, with an etheric approach.

Editorial

The editorial section of this issue, titled "Meyn Mamvro", sets a tone of concern and frustration regarding the treatment of ancient sites in Cornwall. It highlights incidents of vandalism and inappropriate behaviour at sites like the Merry Maidens stone circle, where a stone was loosened and a tipi was erected, and Boscawen-ûn, where someone was seen climbing a leaning stone. The editorial criticizes "English Heritage" for not implementing entrance fees and facilities at sites like Merry Maidens, which could generate revenue and better manage visitors. It also points out the significant issue of accessibility for disabled visitors, specifically mentioning the stile at Merry Maidens and the lack of simple access at Lanyon Quoit. The editorial urges readers to write to the Tregothnan Estate, the National Trust, and English Heritage to advocate for improved accessibility and site management. It emphasizes that these sites could greatly enhance the lives of disabled people if made more accessible.

Dowsing News

This section details various dowsing activities that took place in early 2009. The Tamar Dowsers held talks on "Sun, Moon & standing stones" and "Orbs, lights and circles." On-site dowsing began in March with the West Cornwall Dowsers visiting Trencrom Hill, identifying energy lines and a vortex. They also dowsed Trink Hill and the Twelve O'Clock Rock, speculating about a line that might be a mineral lode or geological fault. The Tamar Dowsers visited Pencarrow House, finding a moved Celtic cross, and investigated an Iron Age 'Hill Fort,' suggesting human activity dating back to the Neolithic period. In a later outing, the West Cornwall Dowsers explored the Court-yard House settlement in West Penwith, identifying energy lines and investigating a possible fogou location. In April, the West Cornwall Dowsers visited Lanivet Church and Helman Tor, noting energy spots and potential excarnation sites. They also found an unrecorded standing stone. Celtic Dowsers visited King Arthur's Hall on Bodmin Moor, suggesting it was built by outsiders and used as a healing centre. In May, all three groups met at Trerose Manor and Mawnan Church, examining Iron Age habitation traces and medieval tunnels. The section concludes with a description of the "Spring into Summer 2009 Events," including a well-clearing ceremony at Fenton Bebibell Well, a Maypole Dance at Carn Bosavern, and various Pagan Moot celebrations and walks, such as the Three Wells Walk and the Penzance May Horns ceremony.

C.A.S.P.N News Round-Up

This section provides an update on the activities of the Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network (CASPN) and its affiliated groups, FOCAS (Friends of Cornwall's Ancient Sites) and LAN (Lizard Ancient Sites Network). The FOCAS group held a successful 3rd annual weekend of walks and talks in May, featuring local stories, legends, and discussions on standing stones and folklore. CASPN/FOCAS continued its monthly clear-up of ancient sites, with several sites cleared and more planned for Autumn. LAN, the Lizard Ancient Sites Network, has 15 site monitors and works closely with the Lizard National Nature Reserve and the National Trust, also conducting monthly clear-ups of sites on the Lizard peninsula. The section provides contact details for joining FOCAS, the Adopt-a-Site scheme, and reporting site damage for both CASPN and LAN.

News: Carwynnen Quoit & Treslothan standing stone

This article reports on the purchase of the Carwynnen Quoit site by the Sustainable Trust, which aims to eventually re-erect the monument. A geophysical survey has been conducted, suggesting the Quoit may have been moved and that a stone circle once existed nearby. Less than a mile away, a probable prehistoric standing stone has been newly identified in the woods of the Pendarves Estate. Identified by archaeologist Professor Charles Thomas, the 6ft granite menhir is studded with quartz pieces and has a unique appearance from different angles, resembling a hooded crone or a bear. Speculation exists about a sacred pathway connecting the stone to nearby natural rock formations and potentially to the Carwynnen Quoit.

Missing Menhirs - Cornwall's Lost Stones: 2: Helston Beacon

This article discusses a lost standing stone at Helston Beacon, which was recorded on the 1888 OS Map but was uprooted between 1888 and 1908. Charles Henderson recorded it as being 15ft high and built horizontally into a hedge. Investigations at the site found a piece of quartz that, when dowsed, indicated it was part of the original stone. The article also notes another "stone" marked on the 1888 map nearby, now occupied by a Catholic church, suggesting the area has long been considered sacred. The article includes a photograph of the quartz fragment and a map showing the location of the stone.

West Penwith Stones & Alignments - An Etheric Approach

Written by Pat Toms, this article explores an "etheric approach" to understanding ancient sites in Penwith. The author uses dowsing and other intuitive techniques to associate with the geometry of the landscape, topographical, and geological forms. This approach aims to explain the layout of ancient sites by considering how things "ray etherically" and how resonance creates "etheric currents." The article introduces terminology such as "association with form," "etheric influence," and "etheric intensities," which manifest as fields of form. It uses diagrams to illustrate concepts like protrusions and intrusions, and how etheric influence can be represented geometrically.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Meyn Mamvro revolve around the exploration, preservation, and understanding of ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on dowsing and the concept of "earth energies" or "etheric approaches" to interpreting these sites. The magazine also highlights the importance of local heritage and folklore, as well as the ongoing efforts of organizations like CASPN to protect these sites. A significant editorial stance is taken on the issue of accessibility for disabled visitors, with a clear call to action for readers to contact relevant authorities to improve access to historical locations. The magazine appears to advocate for a respectful and informed engagement with Cornwall's ancient landscape, while also addressing practical concerns about site management and preservation.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 70
Date: Autumn 2009
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Meyn Mamvro explores the concept of 'etheric resonance' and its manifestation in the landscape and ancient sites of Cornwall. It delves into the nature of etheric fields, their connection to living association and the human mind, and how they influence natural formations and human-made structures.

Etheric Resonance and Form

The lead article discusses how dowsing and intuitive techniques can reveal 'etheric resonance' as a field of form, characterized by rays and peripheral lines. This resonance is experienced as a current, with intensity and polarity dependent on the form and any intrusions. The concept of 'etheric' is distinguished from 'energetic,' emphasizing mindful experience and living intent rather than physical measurement. Etheric fields are seen as formative, influencing growth and change in living things, and can be used for locating hidden objects. Inappropriate associations with these fields can lead to discomfort or disease, termed 'geopathic stress.'

Carn Lês Boel and Ley Lines

The magazine features a personal account of a visit to Carn Lês Boel, a headland in Cornwall where the 'Michael line' and 'Mary currents' are said to commence. The author describes finding a standing stone and other large boulders that define a north-south line and a sixty-degree line, aligning with these serpentine energy currents. These stones are described as being 'enlivened etherically' by geological features and fissures, and their arrangement is thought to resonate with the Earth.

Huge Boulders and Natural Formations

Further exploration of natural formations includes observations of deliberately placed boulders in other locations, believed to create etheric currents. The article mentions a well on Trencrom Hill with boulders positioned to interact with fissures and emanate currents. At Zennor Head, a large boulder bridging a crevice is noted for accentuating etheric current flow. The Cheesewring, a natural stone stack, and a nearby stack with a boulder on top are discussed in relation to a north-south line that intersects with the Hurlers stone circles, suggesting a connection to the Michael and Mary currents and an alignment with Earth energy.

The Mên-an-Tol: Stone of the Hole

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the Mên-an-Tol, a unique holed stone in Cornwall. The article details its physical characteristics, including its size and the large hole, and discusses its potential original placement within a stone circle, possibly comprising 19 stones. Historical drawings by William Borlase are referenced, suggesting the stones may have been moved over time. The Mên-an-Tol's connection to astronomical events, particularly lunar standstills, is explored, with computer alignments suggesting it could have framed the moonrise. The stone is also linked to legends of healing and divination, having been known as the 'Crick stone,' and is still used for pagan and spiritual rituals.

The Dark Moon and Monument Attacks

Another article, 'DARK MOON' by Robin Ellis, revisits two major events in West Cornwall in 1999: a total solar eclipse and the firebombing of the Mên-an-Tol and Lanyon Quoit monuments. The solar eclipse is described as a powerful elemental force, potentially tapped by practitioners of ancient moon magic. The attack on the monuments, using home-made napalm, is presented as an attempt to remove or damage the Mên-an-Tol, which was seen as an obstacle to the manifestation of a 'Dark Moon Goddess.' The article also touches upon the vandalism of sacred wells during the summer of 1999 and the factional infighting within the West Penwith Pagan movement.

The Function and Significance of the Mên-an-Tol

The issue further speculates on the function of the Mên-an-Tol, comparing it to 'Hagg Stones' and 'Dobbie Stones' used for protection against negative forces. It is suggested that the Mên-an-Tol might have acted as a giant 'Dobbie Stone' to resist unbalanced energy. The cyclical nature of its function, possibly tied to an 18.6-year earth mound cycle and lunar standstills, is discussed. The article notes that after the Neolithic period, the stone was re-oriented to channel earth energy, replicating its original function.

Lanyon Quoit and Reconstruction

Lanyon Quoit, another ancient monument, is discussed in relation to the Mên-an-Tol. It is noted that both are reconstructions, with Lanyon Quoit having been damaged by a storm in 1815 and carelessly re-erected in 1824. Its current position is described as 'unplugged' from the energy web, potentially becoming a liability. The article suggests that the Mên-an-Tol, while no longer aligned to lunar energy in its present position, remains a powerful generator.

Paganism and Future Events

The issue raises questions about the dark purpose behind the 1999 events, suggesting that some within the traditional shamanic witchcraft of West Penwith may have sought to access ancient power and transform the energy matrix. The possibility of a bid for power within the modern Pagan movement is considered. The article concludes by noting that the 'Dark Moon' will return to Cornwall on September 23rd, 2090, and June 4th, 2160, implying a cyclical or recurring influence.

Pathways to the Past: Tamar to Lands End

A concluding section details a 100-mile walk through Cornwall from the River Tamar to Pendeen, undertaken by Cheryl Straffon to celebrate her 60th birthday. The walk traversed green lanes, footpaths, and farm tracks, visiting ancient and sacred sites. The narrative covers various locations, including Wheal Rose, Portreath, Tehidy Woods, and Godrevey headland, mentioning Bronze Age barrows, Romano-Celtic settlements, and early Christian chapels. The author highlights the rich prehistory of the area, often overlooked by tourists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of earth energies, ley lines, sacred sites, and ancient megalithic structures, particularly in Cornwall. There is a strong focus on intuitive and spiritual interpretations of landscape features and historical monuments, often drawing on concepts like 'etheric resonance' and 'energy currents.' The editorial stance appears to be one of investigating and presenting these often-mysterious phenomena, encouraging readers to consider alternative perspectives on history, spirituality, and the natural world. The issue also addresses contemporary events, such as the 1999 monument attacks, within this broader framework of earth mysteries and ancient traditions.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 70
Date: Autumn 2009
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0966-5897

This issue of Meyn Mamvro, a magazine focused on earth mysteries, folklore, and paganism, delves into the rich heritage of West Penwith in Cornwall. It features personal accounts of walks, explorations of ancient sites, discussions on pagan traditions, book reviews, and tributes to influential figures in the field.

The Walk: Days 14-16

The issue details the final days of a 100-mile walk across Cornwall. Day 14 involved walking from Riviere Towans to Hayle, passing by the historic holy well associated with Erasmus Pascoe. Day 15 saw the journey continue to Lelant Downs, Gorran, and along a green lane flanking Trencrom Hill, with views of St. Michael's Mount. The walk progressed towards Lady Downs and the Tinners Way, with a notable encounter with the ancient monument, Zennor Quoit, described as a dramatic sight on the West Penwith Moors. The day concluded with reaching the meeting point of three parishes and finding accommodation.

Day 16, the final day, was joined by Sheila. The walk followed the Tinners Way, passing Mulfra Hill and the Nine Maidens Boskednan stone circle, described as one of the loneliest spots on the moors. The route continued past the Mên-an-Tol and towards Chûn Castle & Quoit. The journey concluded with a stop at Higher Boscaswell well for a blessing, and finally reaching the author's home in Cornwall, marking the end of a significant personal journey.

Sancreed's Wells - Old 'Crone' & Newly Uncovered

This article addresses a misconception regarding Sancreed Holy Well, which has been erroneously referred to as 'the Crone well' in recent publications. The author traces the origin of this attribution to hearsay, possibly from a 'lady with a child', and notes that early folklore collectors did not use the term 'crone', preferring 'old dame'. The piece highlights how such notions can gain spurious credibility through repetition. It also mentions a recently uncovered well on the land of Plan-it Earth, which, like Sancreed well, rises from a spring and has a deep structure, though no specific history or legends are recorded for it.

Penwith Pagan Moot

Authored by Eve Benney, this section describes the rituals of the Penwith Pagan Moot throughout the summer. The Beltane ritual, focused on fertility, involved a maypole made from a garden trellis, adorned with greenery and ribbons, and flanked by altars. The ceremony included self-purification and meditation on the masculine principle. The Midsummer celebration at Ballowal was a fire ritual, calling upon the Sun King and creating a 'sun disc' from a wooden wheel adorned with wishes. The Lughnasadh ritual, held after a wet July, focused on the stories of Demeter and Lugh, with attendees making corn dollies and playing a tug-of-war. The issue concludes with sharing home-brewed barley beer and Lammas bread.

Book Review: Cornovia: Ancient Sites of Cornwall & Scilly

This review discusses Craig Weatherhill's book 'Cornovia: Ancient Sites of Cornwall & Scilly 4000 BC-1000 AD'. The reviewer praises Weatherhill as a respected 'amateur' archaeologist and highlights this new edition as a revised and fully updated version of his earlier works. The book is described as a valuable reference, featuring a 'time line' introduction and a gazetteer of principal sites. While the reviewer suggests that 8-figure map references and more detailed maps would be beneficial, they conclude that it is the standard reference book for visiting and learning about ancient sites in Cornwall and Scilly.

The Pipers Tune

This article recounts the events of the Mazey Eve celebrations in Penzance, focusing on the rivalry between the two Obby Osses: the Golowan Penglaze (male) and the Penglaz (female). The Golowan Penglaze had appeared at the Torchlight Procession earlier in the week. On Mazey Eve, the Penglaz danced through the streets, and was unexpectedly joined by the Golowan Penglaze. Their spontaneous dance was described as a 'tender mating dance', but the male Penglaze ultimately left the Penglaz to continue the dance alone, leaving her followers feeling sidelined. The article anticipates future events at Montol in December.

Hugh Miners 1915-2009

This is a tribute to Hugh Miners, a significant figure in Cornish heritage. The author recounts meeting Miners in 1986 while he was leading a walk along the Tinners Way, a route he had researched and rediscovered. Miners contributed to the first issue of Meyn Mamvro and continued to support the magazine over two decades. He is remembered for his love of Cornwall, his promotion of its traditions, and his contempt for those who were insensitive to its history. The tribute includes a quote from Miners describing Cornwall in his boyhood as isolated and possessing a rich spiritual milieu blended with Celtic paganism and Methodism. His legacy includes the popular Tinners Way and the preservation of knowledge of old Celtic customs. Miners passed away peacefully in February 2009 at the age of 94.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the exploration and preservation of Cornwall's natural and cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on ancient sites, folklore, pagan traditions, and walking routes. There is a clear appreciation for the unique spirit of places like West Penwith and a critical stance towards modern materialism that threatens to erode historical and spiritual connections. The editorial stance supports local traditions, archaeological research, and personal journeys of discovery within the Cornish landscape. The inclusion of various pagan rituals and discussions on ancient wells suggests an openness to and interest in alternative spiritualities and historical belief systems.

MEYN MAMVRO | Issue 70 | Autumn 2009

This issue of Meyn Mamvro features an article titled "THE LAND'S END" by John Michell, excerpted from his 1974 book 'The Old Stones of Land's End'. The magazine also includes a tribute to John Michell, who passed away in 2009.

The Land's End by John Michell

John Michell describes the Land's End district, also known as West Penwith, as a country of unique character. This isolated granite plateau, connected to the rest of Cornwall by a narrow strip of marshland, is characterized by its rocky terrain and ancient stone monuments. Michell highlights the area's magnetic attraction, which he suggests is not solely due to its mineral resources and scenery, but a quality of the land itself that historically drew people, including ancient giants according to old English histories.

The article delves into the religious history of Britain, emphasizing the notable part played by the Land's End peninsula from the earliest times. Michell notes that the monuments left by the ancient inhabitants, such as cairns and tors, remain in the landscape. He suggests that annual assemblies at local spirit shrines were once vital to the economy, providing a calendar for activities regardless of prevailing religious systems.

Michell explains that sacred territory belongs to the land rather than its inhabitants, with native gods remaining constant. He identifies the western end of Cornwall as a place of ritual magic and invocation long before it became a sanctuary for Celts, Druids, and Christians. The parish of St.Buryan is singled out for its high concentration of stone crosses and megalithic monuments, erected by a people who occupied the area over two thousand years before Christianity. These ancient stones, though many have been replaced by Christian structures or repurposed, still indicate the extent to which they once dominated the landscape. Michell concludes that West Penwith, like Carnac in Brittany, was dedicated by its megalith builders to the purpose for which the stones were erected.

John Michell 1933-2009

This section is a tribute to John Michell, described as one of the great icons of the 1960s and a popularizer of 'Earth Mysteries'. His work, including books like 'The View over Atlantis' and 'City of Revelation', explored the idea that number and geometry were earthly manifestations of divine creation, encoded by ancient astronomer-priests in megalithic monuments. The author notes that many ideas in Earth Mysteries that emerged later were presaged by Michell's early books.

The tribute emphasizes Michell's deep love for the stones and sites, particularly in West Penwith, Cornwall. It recounts his research and writing of 'The Old Stones of Land's End' and personal memories of expeditions with Michell to find stones and alignments, often following ley lines. The author recalls Michell's modesty, kindness, and loyalty as a friend, and his consistent promotion of the Meyn Mamvro magazine.

A talk given by Michell to the Cornish Earth Mysteries Group in 1993 is mentioned, and his continued subscription to the magazine until his death. The author shares a final memory of Michell at a railway station, still full of ideas for preserving ancient stones and confident in the accuracy of the alignments he found in West Penwith. The tribute concludes by stating that the world is a poorer place without Michell's enthusiasm, wit, ideas, and warmth, and his respect for megalithic sites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly focuses on the intersection of ancient history, archaeology, and esoteric beliefs, particularly concerning megalithic sites in Cornwall. The editorial stance appears to be one of reverence for these ancient sites and the knowledge they represent, as exemplified by the admiration for John Michell's work and his dedication to preserving and understanding these places. The magazine promotes the exploration of 'Earth Mysteries' and the historical and spiritual significance of ancient landscapes.