Meyn Mamvro - No 081 - Summer 2013

Magazine Overview

Meyn Mamvro, Issue 81, Summer 2013, is a magazine dedicated to exploring ancient stones and sacred sites in Cornwall. It features a cover illustration depicting figures interacting with a stone monument, with the prominent headline "ancient stones and sacred sites in cornwall". The issue costs £2.90 and is published by Meyn Mamvro.

Contents

The magazine's contents page lists a variety of articles and features, including an editorial, "Dowsing News", reports on "Moving Menhirs" and "Missing Menhirs", and specific site explorations such as "CASPN & LAN", "Into Alignment: Merry Maidens fallen menhir", "Home Sweet Ancient Home: Bosiliack", and "Ancient Tracks: Boscawen-ûn". Other articles cover "Penwith Pagan Moot", "Ashland Goddess Sanctuary / Wells Corner", "In Site: Tregeseal circle, barrows & holed stones", "Performance & Journeying - Jill Smith", "Fogous and transformation - Roger Farnworth", "Montol & Golowan/Historic Padstow Obby Oss film clip", and "Book Reviews". The issue also includes a look back "20 years ago: Carn Euny vision".

Editorial and Key Articles

The editorial section likely sets the tone for the issue, which appears to heavily focus on the discovery, identification, and preservation of ancient megalithic sites in Cornwall. The magazine highlights the ongoing discovery of standing stones, even after thousands of years, and expresses concern over the removal and destruction of these sites. The "Moving Menhirs" section discusses the Tristan Stone near Fowey, which faced relocation due to a housing development, sparking protests and debates about cultural integrity. Conversely, the "Rissick Stone Uprooted and Moved" article details the unfortunate removal of an unrecorded standing stone from Trevore Farm, which was subsequently used as gateposts, underscoring the vulnerability of un-scheduled sites.

"Dowsing News" reports on activities by various dowsing groups, including West Cornwall Dowsers, who explored sites like Alsia Well and Balowall Barrow, identifying energy lines and potential historical gathering places. Trencrom Dowsers organized a talk by Sig Lonegren on labyrinths, who then demonstrated creating one on a beach. Tamar Dowsers presented talks on Dowsing in Hypnotherapy and the Mary/Michael Pilgrim Route.

"Into Alignment: Merry Maidens fallen menhir" details the discovery of a newly found fallen menhir on an alignment that includes the Merry Maidens stone circle, suggesting a prehistoric line of standing stones. "Home Sweet Ancient Home: Bosiliack" explores a lost prehistoric village with a long continuity of occupation, dating back to the Bronze Age and Iron Age, highlighting its significance and the integration of natural boulders into hut structures.

Organizations and Protection Efforts

The "CASPN & LAN NEWS ROUND-UP" section details the work of the Cornish Ancient Sites Protection Network (CASPN) and the Lizard Ancient Sites Network (LAN). These organizations are actively involved in monthly clear-ups of ancient sites in West Penwith and on the Lizard peninsula, maintaining sites like Sancreed well, Madron well, and various settlements and barrows. The article also provides contact information for CASPN, FOCAS (Friends of Cornwall's Ancient Sites), and LAN, encouraging public involvement in site protection through Adopt-a-Site schemes and reporting damage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the importance of preserving Cornwall's ancient heritage, particularly its megalithic sites. The magazine expresses concern over the lack of protection for un-scheduled sites and the potential for their destruction or alteration. There is a strong emphasis on field research, dowsing, and the identification of new sites or previously overlooked aspects of known sites. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocacy for the protection of these ancient landscapes and a celebration of the ongoing discoveries and research within this field. The magazine also promotes a connection with nature and the past, as exemplified by Richard Dealler's quote about "nature cures" and reconnecting with the "still point of the turning world."

Title: MEYN MAMVRO
Issue: 81
Date: Summer 2013

This issue of Meyn Mamvro delves into ancient sites, pagan practices, and archaeological research within Cornwall, focusing particularly on the West Penwith area.

ANCIENT TRACKS: 1: Boscawen-ûn farm to circle by Raymond Cox

This article introduces a new series examining pathways to ancient sites. It details the ancient trackway leading to the Boscawen-ûn stone circle in West Penwith, describing it as a church or field path from St. Buryan. The approach is noted for its atmospheric and secret quality, with the path crossing a stile to join an enclosed ancient pathway bordered by hedges. The central stone of the circle comes into view first, framed by the hedge. The article also lists several ancient sites along an alignment from west to east, including Bunkers Hill W, Boscawen-ûn stone circle, Trenuggo cross, and Tresvennack Pillar menhir. A guided walk along this pathway was scheduled for Sunday, May 26th, meeting at St. Buryan church.

PAGAN PAGES: Penwith Pagan Moot by Eve Salthouse

This section reports on the Penwith Pagan Moot's Samhain celebration, which was held at Sancreed Village Hall due to Sancreed House being under new ownership. The celebration focused on remembering and honouring the dead, aligning with traditions of Samhain as the New Year and a time when the veil between worlds is thin. The Moot decided not to hold a Yule ritual this year but celebrated Imbolc by walking to Sancreed Holy Well. Imbolc is celebrated as the time of the Cailleach's rebirth as the Maiden, honoured by names like Bride and Brigit, patron goddess of healing and creativity. The Moot's seasonal celebrations are open to all and are often held at ancient sites. They also meet monthly on the second Tuesday at the Admiral Benbow Inn in Penzance for discussions, guest speakers, and workshops.

PAGAN PAGES: ASHLAND GODDESS SANCTUARY

A new Goddess sanctuary is being created in north Cornwall, near Bude. With assistance from the Ashland Goddess Sanctuary in Oregon, USA, the sanctuary is being established on land owned by the Ash family. The land is dedicated to the healing of women, and the work includes the creation of a sacred pond and an 8-stone circle. The sanctuary will be available for Goddess Gatherings, retreats, sacred dance, music, and private bookings for healing and meditation. Contact details are provided for David Ash.

PAGAN PAGES: GODDESS IN CORNWALL 2013

This event, described as Cornwall's premiere spiritual event for women, was running for its seventh year at Boswedden House near St.Just from September 3rd-8th, offering a variety of workshops, ceremonies, and entertainment. Further details were available at www.goddessincornwall.co.uk.

WELLS CORNER: Tregellast well [SW5184 3440]

This new regular feature on Cornwall's holy wells highlights Tregellast well, located near Cockwells, off the A30. It was posted on the Holywells of Cornwall Facebook page by Jonathan Polkest. Unlike many other wells, Tregellast is not mentioned in Meyrick's book on holy wells and appears to be a utilitarian well situated at a crossroads. It is near the Collurian well, known for curing eye troubles. Tregellast was restored in 2002 but is now covered in moss.

IN-SITE: TREGESEAL CIRCLE & NEARBY SITES

This section focuses on the Tregeseal stone circle, located south of Carn Kenidjack. The circle, which has 19 standing stones, was disturbed in the past and re-erected in the 1920s and 1980s. The stones are of varying heights and equally spaced, with a gap on the south-western side. A former quarry encroaches on its western flank. There was formerly a second circle to the west, destroyed in the 19th century, and a third identified from crop marks. The area of Tregeseal Common is rich in legends of the Otherworld, including fairy folk, demons, and devils, and is considered a place of ceremony and ritual, possibly focused on Carn Kenidjack. It is suggested that Carn Kenidjack was a Tor Enclosure, possibly a separate sacred area or the dwelling place of ancestors or gods, with a ceremonial path connecting it to the circle(s).

OTHER SITES NEAR TO TREGESEAL CIRCLE

Tregeseal Barrows: North of the stone circle are several round barrows, part of a funerary complex. The two best-preserved are 12.2m and 14m in diameter, and about 1.5m high. One has part of its kerb remaining, and the other has the remains of a stone chamber. Another barrow is located south at Hailglower Farm.

Holed stones: Continuing past the barrows leads to the Tregeseal Holed Stones. These are presumed to be contemporary with the stone circle and barrows, but their purpose is unclear. They have been re-erected and are about 0.8m to 1.2m high, with holes of varying diameters. Three are standing, with a fragment of one fallen. No.2 has the largest hole, 9cm in diameter. Another stone (no.5) has a horizontal fracture. These stones may have been aligned to view landscape features like Carn Kenidjack or Boswens menhir.

PERFORMANCE AND JOURNEYING: RITUALS AT CORNISH SITES IN THE 1970'S by Jill Smith

This article reflects on an exhibition of Bruce Lacey's work at the Newlyn Art Gallery in Penzance, which included his performance art at ancient sites in West Penwith in the 1970s. Jill Bruce (now Smith), Lacey's former wife and collaborator, writes about these rituals and ceremonies. They began as a Performance Art duo in the early '70s, evolving into outdoor, ceremonial performances. They discovered Neolithic and Bronze Age sites and sought to integrate their effect into their lives. Smith describes experiencing psychic memories and a calling from ancient ancestors. Their work involved journeying between ancient sites in a yellow truck, re-linking sites and re-awakening 'dreaming paths'. They viewed places as part of a living sacred landscape. Smith also collected sacred well water, including from Chalice Well and Brighde's well, and sometimes gave it to other sites as a gift or anointing. They carried a flame lit from the sun and performed dawn ceremonies at sites like Boscawen-ûn, Tregeseal, and the Nine Maidens circle. They were careful not to damage sites. Smith mentions a visit to Uluru in Australia in 1984, deepening her understanding of humans as links between earth and cosmos. She notes that while few people worked with ancient sites in this way then, it is more common now. Her understanding deepened over time, leading to a more profound connection with ancestors and spirits, eventually requiring no costumes or concept of performance. Her spiritual awakening began at Boscawen-ûn, leading to journeys that eventually took her to Callanish on the Isle of Lewis in 1982. Smith is the author of 'The Callanish Dance' and 'Mother of the Isles', and is working on a book about her landscape journeys in the early '80s.

FOGOUS AND TRANSFORMATION by Roger Farnworth

This article, published posthumously, presents Roger Farnworth's research on fogous, ancient structures found in Penwith and the Helford areas. Farnworth, a researcher of Cornwall's ancient sites and a member of the Cornwall Archaeological Society, suggests that fogous were not primarily for food storage or defence, but rather served as tools for resource extraction, specifically for making charcoal and smelting tin. He argues that the wealth generated would be reflected in the settlements. Farnworth outlines common features of fogous, including entrances facing the prevailing wind, a right turn in the passage, and a rise in ground level. He notes the presence of charcoal-rich sediment and heat-cracked stones at Carn Euny. He proposes that the transformation of rock into metal through fire was perceived as a ritual act. The round fogou at Carn Euny is described as the earliest, functioning as a primitive charcoal smelter. A later, streamlined version could capture abundant oxygen-fuelled wind for rapid charcoal production and tin smelting. The process involved intense heat and turbulence, creating a potent 'earth magic' and potentially inducing religious experience, leading to wealth and trade. Patricia Christie's excavation at Carn Euny found a significant layer of charcoal. The housing around fogous, like at Chysauster, is of higher status than in settlements without them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the rich history, archaeology, and esoteric traditions of Cornwall. There is a strong emphasis on ancient sites, stone circles, and pagan practices, including seasonal festivals and the use of holy wells. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep respect for these ancient landscapes and traditions, encouraging exploration, understanding, and participation. The inclusion of articles on performance art at ancient sites and speculative archaeological theories (like the function of fogous) suggests an open-minded approach to interpreting the past and its spiritual significance. The magazine aims to inform and engage readers interested in Cornwall's unique heritage, blending historical research with elements of folklore and contemporary spiritual practices.

Meyn Mamvro issue 81, Summer 2013, is a publication focused on Cornish culture, folklore, and ancient sites. The magazine explores the complexities of traditional festivals, the historical uses of ancient structures, and reviews significant books on the subject.

Fogous: Ancient Smelting Sites and Sacred Spaces

The issue delves into the function of 'fogous,' ancient Cornish structures, examining their use in wind-driven smelting. At Pendeen Vau, the owner described how prevailing north-westerly gales were used to create low pressure, sucking wind through the fogou entrance. Similar technical variants of smelting are noted at Boscaswell. Halligye Fogou is described as having two passages, allowing for wind smelting from different directions, with a central stone doorway that shows signs of intense heat, suggesting ore melting. The article notes dark fire marks and deformations on stones, indicating the heat involved.

Boleigh fogou, facing south-west, is discussed in the context of receiving south-westerly winds. The article speculates that if it was used as a fiery furnace, the appropriate god to carve on the entrance would be Jupiter or Taranus, the Celtic conflated form, often depicted with a thunderbolt and metalwork. A carving at Boleigh fogou entrance is compared to the indistinct carving at the south-east entrance, noting Taranus's beard and hair resembling a hood.

The use of fogous is suggested to have occurred over a short period in the autumn, after farmwork. Charcoal would be made, and then the year's streamed ore smelted at once during a gale. This process would leave most of the year for other activities. The article posits that after these 'fire rites,' the fogou would become a sacred space for rites of passage, from youth initiation to cremation. It is suggested that liminal contact with the underworld would have made ceremonies to acknowledge the entry of solstice light appropriate, making fogous the most sacred place within settlements.

Montol & Golowan Update

This section reports on the Penzance midwinter festival, Montol, and its ongoing controversy. The retirement of the original 'Penglaze' led to the creation of two new 'Osses.' One was created by Cassandra Latham-Jones and her supporters, and the other by the Golowan & Montol Committee. The new director, Andy Hazlehurst, banned the Latham-Jones 'Oss, which was later renamed Penkeyyll and now visits other events. The Montol Committee decided to dispense with Penglaze altogether, disappointing many who enjoyed its 'dark and edgy feel.'

In protest, Simon Reed, a former organising team member, created a satirical mock 'Oss named Pencrap from old materials. The article notes that under the new Director and organising team, both Golowan and Montol have distanced themselves from pre-Christian or pagan elements, resulting in a 'weak, watered-down version' of the original festivals.

Simon Reed's core themes for the festivals included darkness, mockery, Cornish customs, sound research, open participation, misrule, and spontaneous creation without money. The new organisers are accused of not understanding or deliberately suppressing these elements, effectively killing the meaning and energy of Montol. Current organiser Helen Musser is quoted suggesting future events might focus on an indoor 'cabaret' as a 'family event.'

The Golowan festival has also suffered, with Penglaze making only one appearance and its dancing and crowd participation being strictly controlled. The Serpent Dance no longer has an 'Oss' to lead it. The article concludes that what was once an exciting, on-the-edge event is in danger of becoming just another 'civic Festival.'

Simon Reed is quoted discussing the revival of ancient customs in Cornwall, stating that Montol is an 'interpretation of themes from the past' and that events should be based on good research, community involvement, and should bring people together and make them happy.

Historic Padstow Obby Oss Film Clip

A historic film clip of Padstow's Obby Oss from 1930 is available online. The 40-second clip, though silent, shows a different Obby Oss event, with the teazer dressed as a woman and musicians in costume. It is suggested the musicians might represent characters mentioned in a 1935 book. Interestingly, a clip from 1932 shows the event looking much like it does today.

Book Reviews & News

Celtic Cornwall: Nation, Tradition, Invention by Alan M. Kent

This book is described as a superb, beautifully produced work by Cornish writer Alan Kent, featuring stunning colour photographs. It attempts to showcase the breadth of Cornish culture from prehistoric times to the present day, with 500 entries arranged by district and category, covering holy wells, playing places, hill forts, enclosures, fogous, round houses, Cornish language, literature, Arthuriana, folklore, and contemporary features. Each entry includes an OS map reference and site details. The book is a large 'coffee-table' type reference book, praised for its astounding variety of information and Alan Kent's impeccable research. The reviewer notes learning much from dipping into the book and highlights examples like the entries for Camborne and Redruth.

Alan Kent's introduction discusses what makes Cornwall Celtic, suggesting that its recognition of 'Celticity' and its drive to make its heritage known are key. He posits that not having 'nation' status has paradoxically heightened its Celticity. The book provides a succinct, non-whimsical background to Cornwall's Celtic identity, emphasizing present-day research and interpretations. Kent's work is seen as teasing out the themes and traditions that form the 'warp' of Cornwall's rich history and its recreation for the present day.

A Witch's Natural History by Giles Watson

This book by Giles Watson, based on essays for 'The Cauldron' magazine, explores the lore, legends, and life-histories of animals, birds, and plants used as motifs in witchcraft. It covers creatures like reptiles, amphibians, crows, rats, spiders, insects, slugs, snails, and spore-bearing plants. Watson's knowledge of the natural world is highlighted, and the book aims to reclaim often-maligned creatures, asking for understanding, tolerance, and respect for these 'creatures of the Goddess.' The final chapters present imaginary rambles exploring ecosystems. The book is described as unusual and of interest to anyone interested in natural history and its impact on folkloric beliefs and practices.

Between the Realms: Cornish myth and magic by Cheryl Straffon

A forthcoming book by Cheryl Straffon is announced, exploring the Celtic Otherworld through the writings of folklorist collectors, oral tradition, and prehistoric sacred landscapes.

20 Years Ago: Carn Euny Encounter

This section revisits an article from Meyn Mamvro (Summer 1993) about a 'close encounter' at Carn Euny fogou, reported by reader Jackie Sutton. Sutton described visiting Carn Euny with her fiancé, and while he cooled off in the fogou, she felt she 'shouldn't go in.' While sketching the entrance, she felt watched and experienced a 'time shift' or 'altered state of consciousness,' possibly exacerbated by her creative act. Her fiancé felt or saw nothing. Sutton described a pleasant feeling of saying goodbye to a friendly community upon leaving.

The article connects this experience to similar reports from others who have experienced a 'vision' or a feeling of peace and welcome at Carn Euny, sometimes hearing voices or sensing being watched over by friendly people from the past or the spirit world. Carn Euny is described as a 'portal' between this world and the Other World, with a pagan group using it regularly for Samhain rituals for 20 years, speaking of its power as an interface.

Exchange Magazines and Meyn Mamvro Folders

The issue lists various exchange magazines related to Earth Mysteries and Paganism, providing subscription details and website addresses. It also promotes Meyn Mamvro folders for storing the magazine and Earth Mysteries Guides.

Noticeboard

The noticeboard section lists upcoming events, including Beltane/Summer Events, Ancient Sites Clear-Ups, Pathways to the Past, and Pagan Moots across Cornwall. It also lists regular site visits and talks by West Cornwall Dowsers, Trencrom Dowsers, and Tamar Dowsers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of ancient Cornish sites, particularly fogous, and their potential uses. There is a strong focus on Cornish folklore, festivals like Montol and Golowan, and the debate surrounding their evolution and commercialisation. The issue also highlights books related to witchcraft, natural history, and Celtic culture, reflecting an interest in the esoteric and the historical roots of Cornish identity. The editorial stance appears to favour a deeper, more authentic engagement with tradition and heritage, as evidenced by the critique of the perceived watering-down of the Montol festival and the celebration of Alan Kent's research into 'Celtic Cornwall'. The magazine also promotes community engagement with ancient sites and traditional practices through its noticeboard and listings.