Wisht Maen - No 3

Magazine Overview

WISHT MAEN DEVON EARTH MYSTERIES MAGAZINE, Issue N.3, is a publication dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of Earth Mysteries, folklore, mythology, and ancient sites within Devon and surrounding areas. The magazine features a blend of scholarly articles, reader contributions, and artwork, aiming to connect readers with the spiritual and historical landscape of the region.

Editorial and Production Notes

The editorial begins with an apology for the tardy appearance of this issue, attributing it to technical difficulties with an old computer. The editor explains the shift to a numerical order for future issues rather than solsticial/equinoxial order. The magazine maintains its A5 format due to rising paper prices, though the editor notes that Anna Clarke's artwork would be better appreciated in a larger format. Plans are mentioned for a Devon E.M. Moot the following year, with hopes of attracting notable speakers. The editor expresses disappointment at the lack of interest in Totnes, a place described as the 'New Age capital of the South West', and contrasts this with the editor's personal enjoyment of researching at Exeter Library. A distinction is drawn between 'New Age' interests and the broader scope of Earth Mysteries, suggesting little crossover in evidence from Devon.

Articles and Features

Tintagel & The Arthurian Mythos

Authored by Paul Broadhurst, this article explores the legends surrounding Tintagel and King Arthur. It posits that the name 'Arthur' was a title of kingship rather than a single individual, and that places bearing the name were significant power sites. The article delves into the importance of celestial events, particularly the Midwinter solstice, in ancient rituals of initiation and empowerment, linking them to the concept of a divine god-king. Tintagel is highlighted as a dramatic and brooding location, its castle built not for military but magical strategy, acknowledging its connection to ancient British psyche and power. Geoffrey of Monmouth's account of Arthur's conception and Merlin's role in constructing Stonehenge and facilitating Arthur's birth are discussed. The article connects Stonehenge's solstice alignment to other prehistoric sites and the Cerne Abbas Giant, symbolizing the Sun God. It also examines King Arthur's Footprint at Tintagel as a place of ritual initiation and the island's sacred character, evidenced by an ancient chapel and rock-cut features. Archaeological findings of Dark Age pottery suggest royal celebrations. The article traces a solstice alignment from Tintagel across Bodmin Moor, passing through Stowe's Hill and The Cheesewring, to Plymouth Hoe, where the turf-cut figure of Gogmagog is discussed as a symbol of a shift from nature-worshipping to solar-based religion. The axis links the Sun's rebirth with the initiation of a Divine priest-king at Tintagel. The narrative extends to Brutus, the legendary founder of Britain, and his connection to Totnes. The article suggests that Geoffrey's writings reflect a time when the landscape mirrored celestial energies and human consciousness shifts. Sir Francis Drake's role as M.P. for Bossiney and Tintagel is noted, linking him to Arthurian ideals and the Elizabethan expansion of the British Empire, influenced by John Dee. The article concludes by referencing Geoffrey's 'The Life of Merlin' and its evocative description of Britain.

The Tinner's Rabbits: A Dartmoor Mystery

By Jeremy Harte, this article investigates the curious motif of three rabbits joined by their ears, found in the carved bosses of 15th-century waggon roofs in several Dartmoor churches, including Widecombe. The article notes that tin was a significant product of the region and that the white metal of tin was associated with alchemical symbolism. It mentions the Benedictines of Tavistock and their potential connection to alchemical mysteries. The triple rabbit motif is found at churches like Chagford, Cheriton Bishop, and North Bovey. Despite local speculation, the article states there is no proven connection between the triple rabbits and tinners, alchemy, or the Trinity. It traces the motif's origin to Buddhist monasteries in Touen-houang, China, and its subsequent spread westward, possibly via Islamic art. The article discusses the rabbit's introduction to England as a domesticated animal and its association with fecundity and burrows, leading to colloquial uses. It dismisses a direct link to tin mining or alchemy, suggesting the symbol might have been adopted by tinners as a badge, representing their communal work and burrowing. The distribution of the motif coincides with tin production areas, and at Widecombe, tinners are known to have funded the church tower.

Plymouth's Ancient Trackways

Authored by Mary Coombs, this article explores the network of ancient trackways around Plymouth. It highlights the significance of the rivers Tamar and Plym as natural boundaries and their connection to ancient routes like the Fosse and Icknield Ways. The east-west link formed a crossroads at Torr, and a north-south route connected to these. Placenames like 'Ryggewey Strete' suggest a Roman road, likely built upon an existing British trackway. Notable sites along these routes include the Norman castle at Plympton Erle, Dorsmouth Rock, and the Roman Road leading towards Kings Tamerton. The name 'Tamara' is linked to a Roman signal station. The article discusses the River Tamar's folklore, its association with the nymph Tamara, and the presence of giants in local legends. It notes the river's demand for sacrifices and the inexplicable accidents that have occurred. The north-south track is believed to date from the Bronze Age, with a secondary route branching off towards Tamerton Foliot. The article mentions the 'Southern Way' and associations with Celtic saints. It explores the significance of placenames like 'maegan-stan' (mighty rock) and the 'Pilgrim Trail' leading to Plym Bridge, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, possibly masking an earlier association with Brigit-Bride. The Plym Valley features the Dewerstone, associated with the Wild Hunt. The article also touches upon the historical importance of Plymouth as a site of ancient trackways and its connection to the broader scheme of things on the island of Albion, referencing findings from Mount Batten and the turf-cut figures of Gog and Magog.

Spinsters Rocks

This section, authored by Hugh Franklin, is not fully detailed in the provided text, but the cover lists it as a feature. The illustration on page 1 depicts a dolmen, which is often associated with ancient sites and possibly related to the themes of Earth Mysteries.

News, Poetry, Letters

This section includes various contributions. Pamela Harvey's poem 'A Devon Memory' reflects on love and remembrance. The 'Letters' section features correspondence from readers. Miss C. Marshall inquires about Well Dressing customs in Devon. Annie Craze seeks information on Holy/healing wells in Devon. Bronwen Griffiths asks for details about St Anns Well near Plymouth for a book she is writing. The editor notes the return of 'SOURCE', a journal of British Holy Wells. A letter from Jeremy Harte critiques Cheryl Straffon's article on Goddesses and Gods of Devon, questioning the historical accuracy of projecting modern neo-pagan beliefs onto prehistoric Britain and suggesting that some legends might be later literary inventions. Cheryl Straffon replies, defending her approach and arguing that folklore and legends can provide insights into prehistoric beliefs, citing archaeological evidence and the transformation of pagan deities into figures in later folklore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the deep connection between landscape, mythology, and ancient history, particularly in Devon. The magazine emphasizes the importance of sacred sites, ancient trackways, and the enduring power of legends and folklore. There's a clear interest in exploring pre-Christian beliefs and their potential influence on modern spirituality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, while also engaging in critical discussion, as seen in the letters exchange regarding the interpretation of ancient beliefs and the projection of modern ideas onto the past. The magazine seems to advocate for a nuanced understanding of Earth Mysteries, distinguishing it from purely 'New Age' pursuits.

Title: WISHT MAEN
Issue: 2
Volume: 1
Date: August 1994
Publisher: Heart of Albion Press
Price: £2.50

This issue of WISHT MAEN delves into ancient mysteries, folklore, and local history, with a strong focus on megalithic sites and the historical landscape of Devon.

Spinsters Rocks and Megalithic Yards by Hugh Franklin

The lead article, "SPINSTERS ROCKS," by Hugh Franklin, explores the enigmatic dolmen of Spinsters Rocks in Drewsteignton, Devon. Franklin begins by noting the difficulty in unraveling such mysteries, often leading to a 'knotted mess.' He highlights the work of William Chapple, who in 1779, conducted detailed investigations and measurements of the site, suggesting it was designed for astronomical purposes, possibly as an 'Observatory.' Chapple's work, though incomplete, is praised for its early archaeo-astronomical approach.

Franklin discusses the name 'Spinsters Rock,' referencing possible Germanic and Old English origins related to 'spinning' or 'spying,' and connects it to the mythological Three Fates. He also touches upon the 'Longstones' and their potential use as direction markers, citing calculations that suggest the Spinsters Rock complex functioned as intended.

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to "MILES AND MEGALITHIC YARDS." Franklin posits that the Earth was measured in remote antiquity with a unit that is now recognized as the Imperial, English statute mile. He presents calculations based on geometric figures, particularly a 30°/60° triangle and circles, suggesting that these dimensions align remarkably with current Earth measurements. He introduces the concept of a 'Megalithic yard' (MY) and proposes that it is intrinsically linked to the 'mile' and the Earth's figure, appearing in various prehistoric sites like Stonehenge and Woodhenge. He notes that the metric system can obscure these relationships, which are more apparent when using the older Imperial units.

Franklin also mentions the historical context of the Spinsters Rock site, including its restoration after a collapse in 1862 and the various individuals who studied it over time, such as Polwhele, Swete, and Major F.C. Tyler.

East Devon Ways by Steven Shipp

Steven Shipp contributes "EAST DEVON WAYS," a guide to the historical churches and legends of East Devon. He highlights the rich history of these Saxon-origin churches, many of which have survived modern changes.

The article details the church at Farway, mentioning a legend about Humphrie Hutchins finding a crock of gold and using it to repair the church. It also points out the ancient Yew tree in the churchyard.

East Budleigh's church of All Saints is described, noting its unique carved wooden bench ends and the historical superstition surrounding the north side of the churchyard, which was not used for burials until 1830. The churchyard was also a site for pagan fairs.

The church of St Giles in Sidbury is presented as a site with Saxon origins, evidenced by a crypt discovered in 1898. The article also mentions the church of St Andrew in Colyton, with its rare 15th-century octagonal lantern and a discovered Saxon Cross. Other notable churches mentioned include St Winifreds in Branscombe, St Andrews in Collumpton, and St Marys at Luppitt.

Other Features and Listings

The issue includes a section on the second meeting of the MID-DEVON EARTH MYSTERIES GROUP and details their upcoming field trip to the Merrivale complex. It also features a report by Kris Bond on a potential midsummer sunrise alignment running from Goonhilly Downs across various sites to the Fens, and a North-South ley on Dartmoor.

A review of "SOURCE, the holy wells journal" is included, highlighting its articles on British 'Cursing' wells and water cults.

Additionally, there is a query about carvings found on the Drizzlecombe terminal stone menhir, seeking theories from readers.

Finally, the issue provides a comprehensive list of "STOCKISTS OF WISHT MAEN by place" across Devon and Cornwall, and a directory of "LOCAL PUBLICATIONS & GROUPS" related to earth mysteries, folklore, and local history.

Book Reviews

The "BOOK REVIEWS" section covers several titles:

• TRADITIONAL BRITISH HONEY DRINKS by Francis Beswick: A guide to honey-based alcoholic drinks, with a warning about potential magic mushrooms in Pictish 'heather ale.'
• THE WITCHCRAFT AND FOLKLORE OF DARTMOOR by Ruth E St Leger-Gordon: A recommended read for Dartmoor folklore enthusiasts.
• A GLIMPSE OF DARTMOOR FOLKLORE by Belinda Whitworth: A condensed guide with OS references and a calendar of fairs.
• IN SEARCH OF OLD DEVONIAN - THE OLD CELTIC LANGUAGE OF SOUTHWEST BRITAIN CIRCA 700AD by Joseph Biddulph: A technical booklet on root words and Old Devonian counting.
• A BOOK OF FOLKLORE by Sabine Baring-Gould: Described as a 'little gem' containing little-known stories and myths, though the typesetting is criticized.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient mysteries, the interpretation of folklore and legends, and the investigation of historical sites and their potential astronomical or cultural significance. There is a clear emphasis on the British landscape, particularly Devon and Cornwall, and the preservation of local history and traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging research, open interpretation, and respect for different viewpoints, while also promoting engagement with local history and earth mysteries through groups and publications.