Meyn Mamvro - No 073 - Autumn 2010

Magazine Overview

Title: Meyn Mamvro
Issue: No. 73
Date: Autumn 2010
Price: £2.70
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Theme: Ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall.

Contents

The Autumn 2010 issue of Meyn Mamvro (No. 73) delves into the rich tapestry of ancient stones, sacred sites, paganism, and folklore in Cornwall. The issue features a variety of articles, news round-ups, and publication announcements.

Editorial

The editorial section, marked as page 1, sets the tone for the magazine's focus on Cornwall's ancient heritage and the ongoing activities related to its preservation and exploration.

Dowsing News

This section details recent dowsing activities undertaken by various groups:

• West Cornwall Dowsers:
• March 2010: Visited the Four Lanes ceremonial complex at Highway Farm near Penventon, investigating a barrow, scattered stones suggesting incomplete stone rows, and a possible circle. They identified a prehistoric barrow and another ploughed-out barrow with powerful energy, noting the site lies on an energy line between Carnmenellis Hill and Carn Brea.
• April 2010: Met at Rosewall Hill near St.Ives. The hill was found to be 'buzzing with energy lines'. A strong line from Carn Brea was traced along a ceremonial path and through a 'natural' rock portal. They also identified sites of hut circles and discovered a fallen standing stone with cupmarks, measuring 18%ft long.
• End of April 2010: Returned to Carnmenellis Hill, exploring further and finding a power point node and two natural rock chambers identified as 'birth' and 'death' chambers used for shamanic practices in prehistoric times. Energy lines radiated towards Carn Brea and Carn Marth.
• End of May 2010: Joined Tamar Dowsers and Celtic Dowsers at St.Piran's Oratory & Church near Perranporth. They investigated the site of five churches and the original Iron Age site of St. Pirans Round.
• June 2010: Visited Kus-Skewes Farm at Nancegollan to investigate strong earth energy lines.
• End of June 2010: Went to Mulfra Courtyard House settlement, gathering information about the inhabitants' spiritual practices centered around ancestor worship. They also climbed Mulfra Hill and found traces of a cist grave, noting the original entrance and the capstone's use for excarnation.

• Tamar Dowsers:
• April 2010: Investigated Launceston Priory, finding a natural geological fault and a ley line. They also dowsed stone sarcophagi, tomb sites, and a church in the graveyard.
• End of May 2010: Met with West Cornwall Dowsers and Celtic Dowsers at St.Piran's Oratory & Church.
• June 2010: Visited Pentillie Castle near Saltash for dowsing of historic features.

• Celtic Dowsers:
• End of May 2010: Met with Tamar Dowsers and West Cornwall Dowsers at St.Piran's Oratory & Church.
• Due a week later: Planned to visit Bosporthennis Beehive Hut but due to difficult access, visited Towednack Church instead, finding it to have beneficient energy.

Spring into Summer 2010

This article covers a range of traditional events and activities in Cornwall during Spring and Summer 2010:

• Fenton Bebibell Well Clear-up: A well-clearing and blessing ceremony on Good Friday, where the source of the well was discovered. Phil Cope, author of a book on Cornish holy wells, participated.
• Beltane Festival: Included a Maypole Dance on Carn Bosavern, St.Just, and the Padstow Obby Oss festival, noted as the 25th consecutive year for the editor's attendance.
• Three Wells Walk: A walk from Sancreed to Chapel Euny wells and then to Madron well.
• Penwith Pagan Moot: Held Beltane celebrations at Crean Mill near St.Levan.
• Penzance May horns event: Included a maypole raising and a procession.
• Midsummer Events: Glorious weather for the Penzance Golowan festival. St.Johns Eve featured bonfires on hilltops, a torch procession, and the appearance of 'Penglaz'. The week culminated in a Serpent Dance.

Penwith Pagan Moot

By Eve Benney, this article details two key events:

• Beltane Celebration: Held near St Buryan with a focus on meditation, exploring creation, masculine/feminine energies, and abundance. 'Penglaz' joined the festivities.
• Midsummer Solstice: A large group celebrated at the Merry Maidens stone circle, involving saluting the stones, meditating on inner fires, and a ritual exploring the sacrifice of the Oak King. This was followed by a feast.
• Lughnasadh Festival: Celebrated on Sennen beach, focusing on the harvest of the sea. Despite mist and drizzle, participants engaged in cleansing rituals, found harvest objects, meditated in a sand labyrinth, and concluded with a feast.

CASPN & LAN News Round-Up

This section provides updates on the activities of the Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network (CASPN) and the Lizard Ancient Sites Network (LAN):

• Pathways to the Past 2010: The 4th annual weekend of walks and talks in West Penwith (May 29th-30th). Events included a walk led by Barry Reilly ('Morning with Bran'), a talk by archaeologist David Giddings on Bosporthennis, a photographic account of excavations by Paul Bonnington, an illustrated talk by Steve Hartgroves ('Cornwall from the Air'), a walk led by Paul Bonnington to Foage and Zennor, and a talk by Anna Tyacke on the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
• CASPN Clear-ups: Monthly clear-ups at sites like Portheras Barrow (cleared of thick gorse, revealing a large barrow with a central cist and kerb stones), Treen Circle, Sperris Quoit and Roundhouses, Nine Maidens Downs barrows, and Boscawen-ûn stone circle.
• LAN Clear-ups: Activities on the Lizard peninsula included uncovering The Three Brothers of Grugwith, Croft Pascoe barrow, Carminoe Mill, and Poldowrian hut circle. LAN also visited Kynance Gate settlement multiple times, clearing huts and the area around a central rock feature.

Remote & Ancient Places in West Penwith: 6: Bosence Chapel

By Raymond Cox, this article recounts a midsummer legend from William Bottrell about a man named Uter Bosence encountering supernatural beings near the ruins of Bosence chapel. The article contrasts this legend with a sunny afternoon visit to the chapel, noting its atmospheric and mysterious quality despite its proximity to a farmhouse. The foundations of the chapel are described as a rectangle of drystone walling, utilized as a field boundary.

Publications

The magazine also advertises several Meyn Mamvro Publications:

• Pagan Cornwall: Land of the Goddess (1993/2002, 120pp, £9.95)
• Megalithic Mysteries of Cornwall (2004, 88pp, £9.95)
• Fentynyow Kernow: In Search of Cornwall's Holy Wells (Revised ed. 2005, 76pp, £7.50)
• Earth Mysteries Guides to Ancient Sites:
• Vol 1: West Penwith (Revised, £5.95)
• Vol 2: Bodmin Moor & North Cornwall (o/p Photocopy available, £4.00)
• Vol 3: Mid-Cornwall & the Lizard (o/p Photocopy available, £4.00)
• Vol 4: Isles of Scilly (£2.95)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration, preservation, and spiritual significance of ancient sites, stone circles, and megalithic monuments in Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on pagan traditions, dowsing practices, and local folklore. The editorial stance appears to be one of active engagement with these sites, promoting their protection through organizations like CASPN and LAN, and encouraging public participation in events and clear-up activities. The magazine also highlights the importance of respecting these sites and avoiding inappropriate decorations or vandalism, as evidenced by the 'Graffiti Grannys' incident and Martin Cleaver's statement.

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 73
Volume: Autumn 2010
Date: Autumn 2010
Publisher: Meyn Mamvro
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Meyn Mamvro delves into the rich history and folklore of Cornwall, exploring ancient sites, Roman influences, and the enigmatic figure of Helena/Elen.

Bosence Chapel and Botrea

The issue begins with a description of Bosence Chapel, a structure with late 15th or early 16th-century stones but potentially much older walls. Charles Henderson suggests it could have been a Celtic hermitage or a medieval domestic chapel. R.J. Mercer notes that stone mouldings are held by local farmers. The chapel is located near Botrea, a hamlet that also features carved window heads and other carved stones. The area around Botrea is noted for its mix of historical periods, including Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age structures, and medieval remains.

A solitary standing stone near Botrea, identified by its grid reference SW4305 3051, is discussed. Although possibly used as a gatepost, it dowsed as a genuine Bronze Age menhir and is situated on an energy line. Its location on Botrea Hill, near an Iron Age Courtyard House and Bronze Age barrows, adds to its significance.

The Romanisation of Cornwall

This section examines the extent of Roman influence in Cornwall. Excavations at Calstock cemetery revealed a 1stC CE Roman fort and furnace, suggesting Roman copper smelting. The fort was larger than Restormel Fort and may have been positioned for control and mineral extraction. The discovery of the Calstock site casts doubt on the theory that Roman forts were solely managed by native people.

The question of how Romanised Cornwall was is explored. Previously, it was thought that Cornwall had little Roman influence due to the lack of Roman towns, villas, or temples. However, the increasing number of discovered forts, along with finds like coins, brooches, and a jar of 1000 Roman coins near Lerryn, indicate a more widespread and earlier Roman presence than previously believed. Anna Tyacke, Antiquities Finds Officer for Cornwall, suggests these finds increase the evidence of an early Roman presence.

Missing Menhirs - Cornwall's Lost Stones: The Third Piper

This article discusses the well-known Pipers standing stones and the legend of a 'Third Piper'. Ashley Rowe reported a family tradition of a third stone located in line with the two Pipers. Vivien Russell listed a stone at SW4360 2490, but no trace remains. Vivien Russell herself doubted its existence. The article also mentions a fallen standing stone listed by Vivien Russell and John Barnett at SW4382 2479, which was found recumbent and covered in ivy. This stone, if it was the 'Third Piper', would have formed a triangle with the other two. Another fallen menhir was reported near the site of the lost Tregurnow stone circle.

Merry Maidens Circle

The Merry Maidens Circle, a well-preserved Bronze Age site with 19 standing stones, is described. It features an entrance gap on the north-east side, with stones varying in height. Two buried stones to the south-east may have been part of a processional way. The article notes the presence of other ancient features in the landscape, including the Pipers standing stones and the Boleigh circle. A standing stone at Gûn Rith is identified as part of an alignment that runs through the Merry Maidens Circle, the site of the destroyed Tregurnow circle, and ends at Borah Farmhouse. This alignment is suggested to be a 'via sacra' or sacred way. The site's Bronze Age date is supported by antiquarian T.C. Lethbridge's dowsing.

Anomalous phenomena at the Merry Maidens Circle are detailed, including radiation counts, electromagnetic energy discharges, strange lights (BOLs), and unexplained voices and sounds. Hamish Miller recorded spiral energy patterns emanating from the stones. The magnetic field was measured, but no significant ultrasound noises were detected. Five leys, or ancient site alignments, are noted as crossing the circle.

The Many Faces of Helena

This extensive article by Alex Langstone explores the figure of Helena/Elen, a goddess with multiple identities and associations. Initially brought to modern consciousness in the early 1980s, Elen is linked to various legends, including the Mabinogion's 'Elen of the Hosts' and St Helena of Constantinople. The article traces the confusion and blending of these figures over centuries.

Elen is described as a magical road builder, guardian of Britain, and a goddess of sovereignty. She is also associated with the green lady of the woodland and reindeer tracks. As Elyn, she is linked to farming, death, rebirth, and the sea. In Welsh traditions, she is the wife of Merlin.

The author suggests Elen may be an ancient Brythonic Cornish Goddess with links to Cape Cornwall, North Cornwall, and Lundy. Her connection to Welsh saints who settled in North Cornwall is explored, particularly the link between St Endellion and Elen. The article discusses the possible confusion between Helena of Constantinople, Elen of Caernarfon, and the Cornish Elen.

Personal experiences of the author with Elen are recounted, including a vision of a 'glowing white lady' in northern Cumbria and a powerful vision of a horned goddess at Slaughter Bridge. The article also explores the 'Arc of Elen', a concept linking sacred sites across Cornwall, Wales, and England, with Lundy being a central point. The river Camel is identified as Elen's sacred river, significant for its wildlife and its historical names.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the deep history and layered mythology of Cornwall. There's a strong focus on archaeological evidence, from ancient standing stones and circles to Roman occupation. The magazine also explores folklore, legends, and the spiritual significance of the landscape, particularly through the figure of Helena/Elen. The editorial stance appears to be one of uncovering and presenting these historical and mystical layers of Cornwall, encouraging readers to engage with the region's past and its enduring mysteries. The inclusion of UFO/UAP phenomena at the Merry Maidens Circle suggests an openness to unexplained events alongside historical and mythological interpretations.

MEYN MAMVRO, Issue 73, Autumn 2010, is a magazine focused on earth mysteries, archaeology, folklore, and paganism, with a particular emphasis on Cornwall and the surrounding regions.

The Call of Helena

This article recounts the author's unusual move to a house near Helland, Cornwall, which felt divinely engineered. On May 22nd, 2009, the author experienced a vivid dream of Helena pointing to the ground, leading to the discovery of a silted-up spring by a woodland edge. While no historical records of a holy well in Helland parish exist, the author believes this spring might be the 'lost well of Helena,' especially as the dream occurred on the feast date of Elen. The author feels this spot is powerful for meditation and imagery, and reflects on Helena's multifaceted nature as a saint and goddess.

Uncovering the Lizard: 1: The Three Brothers of Grugwith

This section begins a series exploring the megalithic sites of the Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall. The first site discussed is 'The Three Brothers of Grugwith' (also known as Grugith or Grougath). The monument is described as a potential cromlech or burial cist, though some suggest it's a natural stone formation. It features a large capstone balanced on two parallel stones, forming a chamber. Distinctive elements include cup-marks on the capstone and one side stone, and a free-standing stone with a 'shelf' on the approach. The stones are made of local gabbro and are located on Crousa Common. The article notes that the site was first mentioned by William Borlase in 1758 and sketched by W.C. Borlase in 1872. The name 'Grug(w)ith' is explored, with a theory linking it to 'Crug Wedh' (trees barrow) or a Scottish word for a female spirit associated with milk libations. A local legend involving St.Keverne and St.Just is also mentioned in relation to standing stones on Crousa Common. The author concludes that while the evidence is not definitive, the unique features of the site suggest it is a genuine monument. The site was cleared of gorse in early 2010, and a hibernating lizard was found and replaced.

Book Reviews

Holy Wells: Cornwall by Phil Cope

This review discusses Phil Cope's book, 'Holy Wells: Cornwall,' which is presented as a new, photographically-oriented exploration of Cornwall's holy wells. The reviewer declares a personal interest, having contributed to the foreword. The book is praised for its research into the history and dedications of the wells, combined with original colour photographs. Cope's approach is thematic, grouping wells by saints or linked themes, rather than strictly by locale. The book features about 60 wells, representing Cope's personal selection, and includes photographs of nearby sacred sites. It is described as a 'personal odyssey' rather than a conventional guide, rich in historical accounts and contemporary poetry.

John Michell: from Atlantis to Avalon by Paul Screeton & Hamish Miller: a life divined by Nigel Twinn

This section reviews two tribute books published following the recent deaths of prominent figures in the 'earth mysteries' field, John Michell and Hamish Miller. The books are described as not being conventional biographies but rather focusing on their subjects' work and influence. Paul Screeton's book on John Michell benefits from his early acquaintance with Michell, providing anecdotal stories, archival photos, and insights into Michell's development as a writer and his interest in ley research. Nigel Twinn's book on Hamish Miller is based on extended recorded conversations and benefits from Twinn's own dowsing expertise, offering insights into dowsing and Miller's impact. The review notes that both books cover the controversy between 'ley hunters' and 'energy dowsers' in the 1970s and 1980s, though it is somewhat glossed over. Both books are recommended for their detail and philosophical depth.

20 Years Ago: Delving into the pages of MM from the past

This feature revisits an article from MM11 (Spring 1990) reporting the discovery of a stone row on Highertown Beach, Isles of Scilly. The row consisted of three stones, one triangular and grooved, and another with cup markings. At the time, it was seen as an exciting find, especially with other Bronze Age stone rows being identified on Bodmin Moor. However, a 2007 book by Gary Robinson, 'The Prehistoric Island Landscape of Scilly,' cast doubt on this identification. Robinson suggested the 'stone row' was the same as two parallel rows of stones discovered during a 1949 excavation of a prehistoric house by B.H. O'Neil, which were interpreted as field boundaries. The article concludes that while it may not be a stone row, the site remains atmospheric and shape-shifting.

Exchange Magazines and Websites

This section provides a list of other magazines and websites related to 'Earth Mysteries,' 'Paganism,' and 'Alignments in the Land's End Peninsula,' including subscription prices and web addresses.

Noticeboard

The Noticeboard lists upcoming events, talks, workshops, and site visits organized by various groups such as West Cornwall Dowsers, Tamar Dowsers, Celtic Dowsers, Ancient Sites Clear-Ups (West Penwith and The Lizard), Helston Weekend, Kernowkopia, and Pagan Moots in various locations across Cornwall.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the 'earth mysteries' genre, exploring ancient sites, folklore, mythology, and esoteric beliefs, particularly within the geographical context of Cornwall and the Southwest of England. There is a strong emphasis on personal discovery, spiritual connection to the land, and the investigation of historical and legendary figures. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and a celebration of the rich, often elusive, history and landscape of the region, encouraging readers to engage with these sites and traditions.