Wisht Maen - No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of WISHT MAEN, titled "Devon Earth Mysteries Magazine," is issue number 4 and is priced at £2.30. The cover features striking black and red artwork with a central image of dragons and ornate scrollwork, highlighting key articles such as "The Black Dog," "Sacrifice & Wheels of Fire," "A Sacred Bus Journey," and "East Devon Hillforts."

Editorial

The editorial apologizes for the delay in publication, citing a house move and a new baby as reasons. The editor expresses gratitude for reader patience and support, noting that future issues may be less frequent, with subscriptions based on a three-issue cycle. The magazine continues to seek contributions of research, articles, poems, pictures, and artwork. The editorial also announces plans for a 10-day Moot/Camp over Beltane, potentially at old Nymet Wood, to help resacralize the area, with a more detailed program to be available by the Winter solstice.

Articles

On the Trail of the Black Dog by Jeremy Harte

This article delves into the legend of the Black Dog of Torrington, a ghost said to haunt a specific stretch of road in Devon. The research of Barbara Carbonell in the 1920s is central, documenting sightings and local folklore. The article discusses the dog's route, its appearance (described as "a gurt hound so big as a calf" with shining eyes), and the historical context of Devonshire villagers' close-knit traditions. Carbonell's research suggested the haunted road might be part of a longer, 20-mile alignment, potentially a ley line. However, the author concludes that this line is likely an old Bideford-Exeter road, and the Black Dog legend, while interesting, may not corroborate Alfred Watkins' ley theory, calling it a "Red Herring."

Sacrifice & Wheels of Fire by Mary Coombs

Mary Coombs recounts an experience at a Dartmoor Hunt meeting that sparked an interest in ancient rituals. The article explores folklore in the Buckfastleigh area, noting its connection to Irish Celtic placenames and possible ancient settlements. It discusses a midsummer wheel-rolling ceremony reportedly practiced in the area, involving a bonfire and a wheel guided towards a river, with failure seen as an ill-omen. The article draws parallels to similar customs in Europe and ancient Egypt and Greece, linking them to fertility rites and the symbolic death and rebirth of a god-king. It also touches upon the potential connection of these practices to UFO sightings and abduction theories, suggesting a modern interpretation of ancient beliefs.

A Sacred Bus Journey by Tracey Brown

Tracey Brown describes journeys on the Okehampton-Exeter bus route, noting the presence of prehistoric sites and ancient crosses along the A3072. The article highlights Stone Cross, the site of a Prayer Book Rebellion battle, and the nearby "Bloody Park." It discusses the "Green Man" imagery found in Sampford Courtenay church and its potential links to ancient nature worship and the "sacred grove" associated with Bow Henge. The author suggests that church architecture, with its carved beams and foliage, may have mimicked natural groves, aiding the integration of Christianity. The article also touches on the legend of the "ghostly warrior" and his fire-breathing dog at Hawkesdown Hillfort.

East Devon Hillforts by Steven Shipp

Steven Shipp examines the hillforts of East Devon, primarily from the Iron Age, built for shelter and protection on prominent hilltops. Blackbury Castle is noted for sling shot pebbles found by archaeologist Tom Lethbridge. Dumpdon Hill, a pear-shaped hillfort, is described as having magnificent views and being open to the public. The article discusses Alfred Watkins' theory of ley lines connecting sites and special places, suggesting that the wind passing through pine trees on hillforts might signify their importance. Independent dowsing found a north-south line at one hillfort, though no ley was identified on Ordnance Survey maps. Hawkesdown Hillfort is mentioned as a defensive stronghold, with a legend of a ghostly warrior and his fire-breathing dog.

Other Content

• Front Cover: Artwork by Anna Clarke, inspired by R.J. Stewart's "Earth Light," featuring meditative mandalas and dragons.
• Credits: Cartoons and artwork by Pete Loveday, Angela Pittman, Elaine Grayson, Steven Shipp, Vivienne Shanley, and Nicola Sellars are credited.
• Advertisements: Information is provided for a full-colour A2 poster by Anna Clarke titled "Grail of the Heart," a dowsing weekend led by Geoffrey King, and Earth Mysteries Greetings Cards.
• Printed by: Prestoprint, Exeter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of earth mysteries, folklore, ancient sites, and paranormal phenomena within Devon. There is a strong emphasis on local legends, historical research, and the potential connections between ancient beliefs, landscape features, and unexplained occurrences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and acknowledging the challenges of maintaining publication frequency due to practical constraints. The magazine seems to bridge the gap between academic research and popular interest in ufology, ley lines, and ancient mysteries.

Title: Wisht Maen
Issue: 4
Volume: 3
Date: 1995
Publisher: Wisht Maen
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
ISSN: 0963-0098
Price: £2.50

This issue of Wisht Maen delves into a variety of earth mysteries, folklore, and archaeological topics, with a strong focus on the West Country of England.

Cover Story: Drizzlecombe Carvings Debate

The cover prominently features the headline "DRIZZLECOMBE CARVINGS DEBATE RAGES!". The main article addresses theories and explanations for carvings found on the Drizzlecombe Menhir. Paul Rendell, Editor of The Dartmoor Newsletter, suggests they are ordinary Christian church symbols, possibly representing an altar cross and a heart. William Saxton offers a detailed interpretation, identifying them as common Christian church symbols, including an altar cross and a symbol for the mass, and a representation of a heart or a sword piercing Mary's heart. He notes that the symbols might be early in date, with altars used in different ways later.

Hillforts and Ancient Sites in Devon

The issue begins with a description of several hillforts in Devon, including Musbury Castle, Sidbury Castle, and Woodbury Castle. Musbury Castle is noted for its breathtaking views and public footpath. Sidbury Castle, an Iron Age encampment, is described as having an ancient dew pond and being a site where women once dressed as soldiers to deceive invaders. Woodbury Castle is unique for being occupied by a private house within its ramparts.

Folklore and Symbolism

Several articles explore folklore and symbolism. Jeremy Harte's article on "Tinner's Rabbits" is discussed, with contributors debating the meaning and origin of the triple rabbit/hare symbol. It is suggested that the symbol is more likely to represent hares than rabbits, and its association with fertility and witchcraft is explored. The article by W. L. Julian discusses the use of figured roof tiles and animal skull carvings in old houses, linking them to pagan customs and good fortune.

Letters to the Editor

The letters section features a lively debate. Kenneth Ashburner praises a musical piece related to the legend of Tamara. Bernard Guile suggests the Drizzlecombe carvings resemble ancient Greek letters. Tom Greeves provides information on the dating and translation of the carvings, suggesting they might be related to the name "Ashley". Debbie Griffiths offers her opinion that the "breast carvings" at Scorhill are natural geological inclusions. Jeremy Harte and Cheryl Straffon engage in a discussion about interpreting folklore and legends, with Harte emphasizing the need for chronological evidence and caution against facile assumptions of continuity.

Book Reviews

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to book reviews, covering a wide range of topics related to earth mysteries, folklore, and archaeology:

• Garlands of Fantasy: A review of a book showcasing the art of Linda and Roger Garland, featuring illustrations inspired by folklore, mythology, and fantasy.
• Pulp!: A review of a publication on trees, woods, and the Green Man, with articles on ecological themes and local heritage.
• A Guide to Britain's Pagan Heritage: A review of David Clarke's book exploring historical regions and magical sites in Britain.
• The Earth Mysteries Guide to Mid Cornwall and the Lizard: A highly recommended guide to megalithic sites, wells, and energies in Cornwall.
• The Sun and the Serpent: A re-issue of a book on earth energies and pilgrimage, praised for its influence on interest in ancient paths.
• Tintagel and the Arthurian Mythos: A review of Paul Broadhurst's book exploring the history and mythology of Tintagel.
• Devon's Sacred Grove: A booklet on the Nymet area, its folklore, and placename history.
• The Mystery of Michael: A booklet examining the British concept of St Michael.
• Walking the Stories and Legends of Dartmoor: A guide to walks in Dartmoor, featuring local stories and sites.
• Witch Amongst Us: An autobiography of a witch, noted for its readable but frustratingly guarded anecdotes.
• The Megalithic Odyssey: A recommended but out-of-print book on the builders of the Bodmin Moor Astronomical Complex.
• The Druids and The Celtic Druids Year: Books on Druidic practices and seasonal cycles.
• And Shall These Mute Stones Speak?: A detailed but technical book on post-Roman inscriptions.

Magazine Reviews

Several other magazines are reviewed or listed:

• Meyn Mamvro No 26 & 27: Features articles on astronomical orientations of stone circles and local folklore.
• Mercian Mysteries No 23: Includes an article on moot/meeting places and innovative research in earth mysteries.
• 3rd Stone No 20: A revised edition covering national EM studies, Pixy Leading, and sacred landscapes.
• Northern Earth No 61: A well-produced magazine featuring St George, Druids, stone circles, and news.
• The Dragon Chronicle No 5: Features an article on Cadbury Castle and legends.
• Fortean Times No 80: A humorous and eclectic magazine covering strange phenomena worldwide.
• Pendragon No XXIV/4 & XXV/I: Features Arthurian art and stories.

Other Articles and Reports

• Celtic Connections: An article on a carved head found on Exmoor, classified as Celtic.
• Correction from Issue 3: A correction to an article on Tintagel and Divine Kingship.
• UFO Research Group: Information on a new UFO research group in Plymouth.
• Mid-Devon Earth Mysteries Group: The disbandment of this group is noted, with a call for a new Devon Earth Mysteries Group.
• Pilgrimages: Jenny and Pat Selfe are running a group for visiting ancient sites.
• Dragonsfields: Reports of strange crop marks resembling dragon footprints in SE Cornwall.
• St Michael de Rupe: News of a lightning strike on the church.
• Shilstone Oak: The cutting down of a significant oak tree in Bridestowe is discussed, along with its associated legends.
• Gog and Magog: Notes on the historical figures and their supposed footprints.
• Dartmoor Accidents: A report on accidents involving unexploded shells on Dartmoor, highlighting military use of National Parks.
• Dartington Hall Workshop: An announcement for a weekend workshop on "The Landscape of The Spirit".
• The Tolmen: A publication exploring interpretations of past and place.
• Raddon Hills Reservoir Site: Discovery of a significant prehistoric site during reservoir construction.
• Kingkerswell Bypass Site: Evidence of Romano-British occupation discovered.
• Membury Excavation: Findings of prehistoric ceramics and a Neolithic feature.
• Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society: Information on their yellow card for reporting injured animals.
• London-Penzance Euro-route: Details on the environmental impact of road construction and protestor camps.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of earth mysteries, ancient sites, folklore, mythology, and the paranormal. There is a strong emphasis on the West Country of Britain, particularly Devon and Cornwall. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging debate and the sharing of diverse perspectives on these subjects. The magazine also highlights the importance of local history, landscape, and cultural heritage, often through book and magazine reviews, and by publishing reader contributions. There is a clear interest in connecting ancient beliefs and practices with contemporary understanding and experiences.

Title: AT THE EDGE
Issue Details: Listed as having 4 issues per subscription, with a subscription price of £7.
Focus: The magazine centers on the intersection of archaeology, folklore, and mythology, with a significant emphasis on Earth Mysteries and pagan traditions.

Featured Journals and Publications

The issue provides an extensive list of journals and publications catering to niche interests in the occult, paganism, folklore, and the unexplained. These include:

• THE CAULDRON: A pagan journal focusing on the Old Religion, Wicca, and Earth Mysteries.
• CELTIC CONNECTIONS: Dedicated to Celtic subjects.
• THE DRAGON CHRONICLE: Explores dragon-inspired paganism, magick, and folklore.
• FORTEAN TIMES: Described as a journal of strange phenomena, essential reading, and funny.
• GREENLEAF: Covers free lifestyles, travellers, trees, festivals, and sites.
• LONDON PSYCHOGEOGRAPHICAL ASSOCIATION (LPA): Offers publications related to psychogeography.
• MEEYN MAMVRO: Focuses on ancient/sacred sites in Cornwall and related electromagnetic studies.
• NORTHERN EARTH: A long-established radical journal of EM, antiquarianism, and cultural tradition.
• PENDRAGON: Explores Arthurian history, folklore, mythology, legend, archaeology, literature, and art.
• THE LEY HUNTER: A leading publication in Earth Mysteries studies.
• SOURCE: Dedicated to Holy Wells.
• 3rd STONE: Features British Earth Mysteries, with a focus on Gloucestershire.
• WHITE DRAGON: Covers Mercia pagan occult issues.

Local Publications and Groups

The magazine also highlights local initiatives and groups, particularly those related to Dartmoor and Devon:

• The Dartmoor Newsletter: Provides current Moor issues, history, walks, and book reviews.
• DARTMOOR PRESERVATION ASSOCIATION: A group dedicated to keeping the Dartmoor Moor free, with membership options.
• PILGRIMS: Organizes visits to ancient and sacred sites.
• DEVON DOWSERS: Offers field trips, lectures, classes, courses, and social events.
• EAST DEVON ANIMAL RIGHTS: An organization focused on animal rights.
• DARTMOOR TINWORKING RESEARCH GROUP: Engaged in studying the history and archaeology of the Dartmoor tin industry, offering newsletters, excavations, and field trips.
• BUFORA (Plymouth) / Sky Watch UK / UFO Research Group: A local UFO research group.

Stockists of WISHT MAEN

A list of stockists for 'WISHT MAEN' is provided, located in various towns across Devon and Cornwall, including Barnstaple, Boscastle, Brixham, Chagford, Crediton, Exeter, Okehampton, Plymouth, Princetown, Tintagel, and Tiverton.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting and connecting individuals and groups interested in esoteric subjects, folklore, local history, and unexplained phenomena. The extensive listings suggest a community-oriented approach, aiming to foster awareness and participation in these fields. There is a clear focus on British (particularly West Country) traditions, sites, and research.