Dolmen Grove Issue 3

THE DOLMEN GROVE ISSUE 3

WWW.DOLMENGROVE.CO.uk

UNITED PAGAN PATHS

THE DOLMEN GROVE “Respect and care for the elders For they have aged with the wisdom of time “ Taloch The Dolmen Grove is a non political organisation; preferring to concentrate upon the quest for spiritual enlightenment and the manifestation of peace within a power hungry world of chaos.

The Dolmen Grove was originally formed in Dorset England where it still has its main H.Q. existing as a Spiritual meeting place for people of all nationalities, and over the years has grown steadily with membership now spanning several continents.

At the centre of The Dolmen Grove is the round table. This is made up of a group of people from all walks of life, following a variety of spiritual paths. These individuals get together once a month to plan and organize events, and gatherings.

Because these people give both their time and energy voluntarily the hopes and dreams of The Dolmen Grove continue to be recognized.

The Dolmen Grove does not have a hierarchy because we do not believe people need titles or labels in order to practice a spiritual path. However we do believe in spirituality based upon love, kindness and an open heart. We are fully aware that this policy which is upheld by the Roundtable of The Grove has upset people in the past and will no doubt continue to do so.

It is NOT our intention to offend anyone and we do not condemn those who wish to use such titles, and we shall continue to welcome all spiritually minded people seeking to enjoy good friendship with good souls who share a common interest.

The Dolmen Grove Banner - A Symbol of Unity

ALL ARE SPITITUALLY UNITED WITHIN THE DOLMEN GROVE

CONTENTS 1...The Nine Maidens by Denny Bottley (Ravenswing) 2...Elimanzer & The Captain...A short story by Mark Vine 3...Dates to remember 4... A day in the life of...interview by Diane Narraway 5...Pagans and Pirates...An interview with Taloch Jameson 6...Review of the Dolmen c.d. Spirits of the Sea by Diane Narraway 7...The Storm is Coming... Dolmen Tour Dates 8...Moo and Me by Semirani and Mo Vine (introduction by Diane Narraway) 9...Poetry from within the Grove 10...Psychometry ...Painting a picture of Portland by Diane Narraway 11...Conjurors Lodge by Taloch Jameson 12...The Portland Witches of the Dolmen Grove by Beth Irving 13...Into the Cauldron by Diane Narraway 14...Recipes 15...Diary of the Hedgewitch by Rachael Moss 16...Dolmen Grove Moots 17...Adverts Photographic contributions in this issue Joanna Caswell, Beth Irving, June Ellen Powers, Chris Hermon, Marloes Visser, and Semirani Vine Cover photo...Beth Irving

Additional artwork ...Semirani Vine and Mo Vine Sketch and Design http://www.facebook.com/MovSketchandDesign

This magazine is for Dolmen Grove members. If any of you have any articles, book/film reviews, recipes, poetry, short stories photographs that you feel may be of interest please email me at;

dinimarie@hotmail.co.uk I also would welcome any feedback concerning current and previous issues Diane Narraway (chairman Dolmen Grove)

The Nine Maidens Boskednan,Cornwall.

One of the most spiritually significant stone circles of particular interest to women is of course 'The Nine Maidens' in Cornwall. Situated 5 Miles West of Penzance, this circle encompasses some 19 large stones from the original 22 in total, to which nine specific stones named - Nine Maidens still remain, 6 remain upright, the other 3 have declined with centuries of elemental coercion. Some 80m in length, dated circa 2,300BC suggesting the structure is an early Bronze Age construction. The stones are approximately 1.5m in height, and the line itself is around 110m in length. The stones themselves are all made from granite, except for nine which are quartz and specifically radiate a mystical energy to those who visit.

Each stone has an estimated weight of between 5-7 tons, interestingly; 1km North of the stone alignment sits a lone stone aptly named the 'Magi Stone'. In addition, just South of the stones lies a small barrow. Within a spiritual context, these stones are specifically connected to 'Goddess Worship'. Indeed, 'Nine' holds great symbolic connotations within the Wiccan tradition, e.g. 'Three times three', also the 'Triple Goddess' aspects of Maid, Mother and Crone, which are symbolic of our own journey through life – the transitory phases that we go through in life (Rites of Passage).

Paradoxically, the number nine holds divine importance within the realms of sacred life itself, e.g. it takes nine months for a baby to develop, ultimately turning attention again to the 'Three times three' aspects within the menstrual cycles, thus leading to the representation of the 'Womb' as the giver of life.

The Nine Maidens holds eloquent meaning and indeed love for many women. It's a place where one's consciousness can truly interact with the immense female energy present at this sacred womb representation, where the power of life, nurture, and protection fill the atmosphere. These stones emanate the 'Feminine Divine' and today women still gather there regularly, particularly Cornish witches - seeking comfort and inspiration.

Historically, these stones have played an active role within fertility rites; it's believed that lovemaking was a regular occurrence within the stones - to promote conception, and there are still many, even now who hold these views. Many women envisage these stones as a 'Womblike Cauldron', from which springs forth new life... a child! ...Thus filling them with adoration and wonder at the prospect that within their own human entity as women, they are protectors, healers....essentially 'Mothers'!

The Nine Maidens has many other uses besides that of fertility rites. Primarily it is a place of 'Goddess Worship'...A place for celebrating the Wheel of the Year! It is also a place where ceremonies are held for rites of passage plus other rituals, all of which play a vital role within this mystical place. In particular the powerful presence of'Rag Magic' is prominent here, where the various materials of primary colours signify the many journeys and emotions we experience as we go through life. E.g. Fire colours represent birth, healing and of course passion - all of which are conducive with the onset of motherhood and creation.

If ever you’re lucky enough to visit this magical place, take some time to connect with our Ancient Grandmothers - I find it really beneficial to sit and meditate whilst burning some white sage, as I breathe in the cool fresh air, and drift into a journey with Mother Earth...Connect...Love ...and Be Loved.

Indeed, as with most ancient monuments Nine Maidens is no exception when it comes to myth and legend.

There are many tales surrounding this circle most notably that of 'Witches Rock' ...Where it is said, that long ago 'Nine Women' gathered at midnight on Midsummer, to light small fires in the surrounding rocks (hence

the name). The landscape was encapsulated in a magical atmosphere by the warm flickering of the flames.

Legend has it that as the flames died so too did the witches, alongside the fleeing of the 'Fairy Folk'. In addition to this tale, folk who touch these stones nine times at midnight, are said to be protected against harm and other ‘bad occurrences’, also undertaking in this procedure would verify a woman as ‘A Witch’!!

Symbolically just as our ancient ancestors before us did, so women today also visit these stones to perform group rituals, as well as more personal spells and blessings. It is said that the ‘Nine Stones’ can bestow upon those who ask it - Good intent, honour and feminine love. Blessings performed within these stones for pregnancy and safe delivery are very prevalent, with knot magic or cord blessings being most commonly used. E.g. Tying a knot for each request, a total of nine knots are made, to seal the spell - Many women use their cords as bracelets or amulets for safe keeping.

This great monument radiates the nurturing protective and cosmic energies of the Mother Goddess - it Oozes feminine expression, in particular the feminine sexual energy, present in the human consciousness and crucially 'The Transition’.

Today it has been defined as 'Extremely Active' providing women with a sense of being...Definingtheir role and significance, within a place of worship – it is more than just a love of the Old Ways, it essentially personifies each of us as not just a woman but as... 'Woman...Creator...Mother' Blessed Be *

Elimanzer & The Captain.

(A short Story, by Mark Vine)

Edith Trevitt, now sure that she had the full and undivided attention of her audience, leaned slowly forwards in her chair and said in a broad Dorset accent, “It’s a tragedy to be certain, but not one that I didn’t see comin,”.

The assembled ladies of the town all nodded and groaned in chicken-like agreement.

“And o’course, he was a man o’ Poole originally, not a native of Dorchester at all”, she added, and then more gravely still, “And you know what they say about Poole men don’t yer? ‘ If Poole were a fish pool and the men o’ Poole fish, there’d be a pool for the Devil, and fish for His dish’, The ladies gasped, staring wide-eyed, and one evoked God’s help to protect them from the obvious evil all around. Mrs Trevitt continued.

“And ‘im bein’ here in the first place was born out o’ tragedy mind. His wife and pretty young daughter, who ‘e idolised, both drowned at sea, and on ‘is own ship as well, God rest their souls.

And it were the child’s birthday the day it happened”. She sighed long and hard, “Well I mean to say, it would play on any man’s mind wouldn’t it, any man with a heart... even a Poole man..... Yes, cut ‘im deep to the bone it did, deep to the bone. ‘Tis said that’s why he moved to Dorchester, so that he wouldn’t have to look at the sea ever again”.

This was the third ‘performance’ that Mrs Trevitt had given since the trial and some of the ladies there assembled, were on their second hearing of

events, such was the interest generated by the imminent demise, by public execution, of her exemployer, Captain Richard Gleed. The sentance was due to be carried out on the very next day, October 31st 1855.

“I mean, who ever heard of a sea-captain who was afraid of the sea”? she laughed, then shaking her head, concluded, “No, tragedy born out o’ tragedy, that’s what it was, and I should know because no-one was closer to ‘im than me”.

She drank her tea and contentedly eyed the gathering as they predictably agreed with her once more, then went on.

“And what with this queer business which ‘e used to get up to in the countryside hereabouts, well, ‘twas bound to set tongues a waggin’ wasn’t it though. Messin’ about in them muddy old ploughed fields searchin’ for them dirty old bits of I don’t know what, the way he did. He told me once they were things that the Romans who lived in Dorset in times gone by had fashioned hundreds o’ years before. Coins and brooches and stuff he said they were, but it all looked like rubbish to me, and I told ‘im so, all green an’ dirty Still he seemed to enjoy it, and it kept ‘is mind off the other business with his family I s’pose”.

Again she paused, and in a low secretive voice added, “And really, it could be said that his doin’s in them fields was the start of his downfall. After all, didn’t he meet ‘her’ first off when he was muckin’ about in one”. The women all nodded again, open-mouthed, some with teacups motionlessly poised midway between lap and lips.

“I remember that mornin’ as if it were yesterday. I

got to his house at about seven o’ clock as usual to do ‘im a bit o’ breakfast and clean up, but he was already up an’ about.

‘I’m off to Maiden Castle,’ says he. Quite jolly he was, for a man that was settin’ off on the road to ruin, if he but only knew it.” She sniffed loudly.

“Well, that’s ‘ow come he met her...Elimanzer.

A disdainful moan blew around the small parlour like an easterly wind, and the women all glanced at eachother knowingly. Mrs Trevitt continued.

“Apparently he stopped off at this farmhouse near Maiden Hill, to enquire if anyone there fancied earnin’ themselves a shillin’ or two helpin’ him for the day in searchin’ for them bits of metal he collected, two pairs of eyes bein’ better than one as they say. Well, the woman there, Elimanzer’s mother, told him that there was no one, except her brother, who was all but blinded in the Crimea, and had no more brains than a turnip. Then she suggests her, ‘Elimanzer’. ‘A child's eyes bein’ as good as any and better than most,’ she said.

“Anyway, as soon as he lays eyes upon her, that was that. She turned his head y’see, right from the off. All he knew, poor man, was that he was staring at the very image of his own dead daughter, her that drowned off Portland in a squall thirteen years before”.

Mrs Trevitt shook her head, slowly and sadly.

“I’ll tell you all now...when he got back that evening, he was a changed man. I’ve never seen a body so altered or distracted as ‘e was then. It was as if a spell ‘ad been put on him, and you all know by who”.

The women gasped aloud once more and with bated breath sat transfixed, waiting for the next revelation to unfold, even though they all knew what was coming next, having heard the testimony in the courtroom the week before and read it in the local paper.

“Changed he was, and the next day he offered her a maids job, tellin’ the mother that he was so impressed with her diligence in the fields, that he was willin’ to give her a start in his own house here in Dorchester. And the wage he promised to pay her was such that the mother could scarcely refuse him”.

Mrs Trevitt had now reached her favourite part of the whole performance. Her bottom lip began to quiver and in a weepy, simpering voice she

declared, “When I think of all them years I’ve faithfully served ‘im. All the favours I’ve done ‘im, and never once did he ever suggest that I move in with him to make my life any easier. All those years of him rattlin’ about on his own in that gert big old house like a tomtit on a quarter of horseflesh”...

She produced a handkerchief and loudly blew her nose, before declaring. “Still, I’m not one to complain”.

A moment later, and quite recovered she went on imperiously, “Now I’m not one to cast aspersions either, as you all know but, I knew from the off that there was somethin’ queer about that girl. Her name for a start, ELIMANZER BOWDITCH! What sort o’name is that for a Christian soul to bear? And as for that cock n’bull story she told about that huge brute of a dog of ‘ers that she refused to be parted from, rescuin’ her from a pond she fell in to as a nipper.... well if that ain’t suspect I don’t know what is. Hulkin’ great black beast, went for me it did once, when I slapped her face for droppin’ a jug o’ milk, it near ripped my throat out.... That’s when I told him, it’s either me or her. ‘Course, you know the rest. Took her side against me didn’t he, so I ‘anded him my notice, there and then. Now I ain’t one to mark another down as a witch, but you all know what them country folk be like”.

Again moans of derision filled the room and one woman croaked, “You should’ve hung up a bullock’s heart studded with thorns and pins, no witch alive can cross a threshold past a charm like that”, and several women nodded.

“See what I didn’t know then was, that she was actually born on the very night that his own dear daughter drowned”, said Mrs Trevitt. “And when he found that out, well, that was that. Nothing on earth was going to persuade him that she wasn’t his own sweet child come back from a watery grave”.

“The good Lord works in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform”, echoed a meek voice from the back of the room.

Mrs Trevitt frowned and said sharply, “Indeed he does dear, but I don’t think he intended me to lose my position through it..... No, you mark my

words, there’s somethin’ darker afoot here, somethin’ not fashioned in heaven above, or anywhere near it”.

Pointing at nobody in particular she added, “And I can hold my head up in the street and stand by my actions. Yes, I admit it, I did march straight round to that little whelp’s mother, and I told her to her face, right in front of that half-blind, half-daft uncle, and Elimanzer’s brother, God rest ‘is soul, exactly what was going on there with the pair of ‘em, or at least, what folk hereabouts said was goin’ on. You know how some people will gossip.

But how was I t’ know that the brother had a fearsome temper on ‘im and would go straight round there like a bull at a gate to ‘ave it out with the Captain. I mean to say, I had to show ‘im where the house was didn’t I? or he might have took it out on me too”...

Mrs Trevitt became emotional again and shook her head. “ He was a lovely lookin’ young man her brother, tall, dark, and strong as an ox. Who would ‘ave thought that a man more than twice his age would ‘ave bettered ‘im like that? There’s only one answer to it, the Captain ‘ad the Devil in ‘im. Soon as that brother said he was takin’ her back ‘ome, he flew at him like a thing possessed, and snapped ‘is neck like a dry twig”..........

made good on, is easier to part with a second time.... I hereby declare now before almighty God that I leave my wealth, my house and all its contents, to Miss Elimanzer Bowditch of Winterborne Monkton”.... The crowd gasped in shocked amazement....

Then with one last blood chilling glare at his former housekeeper, he turned and nodded to the hangman.

Mrs Trevitt watched smugly as the rope was placed around the prisoner’s neck. Gleed stared unflinchingly ahead. The pain and affrontery that she imagined had been done to her was at last about to be put to rights. Edith Trevitt smirked, but was momentarily distracted from her triumph by a figure which suddenly appeared in a window of the prison behind the scaffold. She stared hard at it, and it stared back at her.

Straining her eyes, all she could see now was that face that all too familiar young face, nothing else seemed to exist at all as it began to completely transfix her in its mesmerising gaze. Even the execution seemed to fade away in front of her. She heard the trapdoor open and the body fall and twist in vain but could not look upon it, and, as the crowd held its breath, she too now began to feel an intense pressure around her own throat.

**************************************** The next morning was cold, and overnight rain had turned the ground around the gibbet to slush.

The crowd booed and hissed as Captain Gleed was led out, and mounted the scaffold. He stood unbowed at the rail as the charge and sentence was read.

Again the crowd grew restless, but fell silent as Gleed began to speak.

“You all have your opinions of me.” he sneered, and, staring straight at Edith Trevitt positioned prominently at the front of the throng, added, “Some of you had too many opinions, and expectations.” At this there were a few ripples of knowing laughter, and Mrs Trevitt frowned hard.

The Captain continued.

“But what a man has lost, then found again and

As Gleed writhed in his restricted flight, Edith Trevitt felt her own windpipe being slowly but relentlessly crushed.

Choking, she desperately clawed in vain at her own throat, but to no avail, and still she was compelled to stare at the face in the window, the awful, vengeful face that stared back at her in its own pityless triumph, with a countenance that seemed to pierce right through in to her very soul.

Then, as Gleed’s body finally ceased its’ struggle, EdithTrevitt, wide-eyed, fell down dead, face first in the mud...

A thin smile creased the face of the diminuitive figure in the window. She reached down a hand and patted the head of the large black panting dog which stood obediently at her feet... Then she turned aside and disappeared from view.

Dates to remember Beltane Spirit of Rebirth Camp...

Friday 27th April – Sunday 29th April inclusive Ticket Prices...Grove Members £25.00 Non Grove Members £35.00 Youth Tickets age 13 – 15 years £13.00 Family Ticket 2 adults and 3 children £60.00 Family Ticket single parent and 3 children £35.00 Tickets available... http://www.dolmengrove.co.uk/BeltaneSoR.html

Tribal Dreams Camp...

Friday 24thAugust – Sunday 26thAugust inclusive

Ostara Stonehenge open access will be on the 20th march at 5am A sunrise circle will be held on portland bill on Thursday 21st March at 6.30am hosted by the portland witches.

A sunset circle will be held at Maumbury Rings th Dorchester on Wednesday 20 March ....We shall be meeting in the car park opposite at 5.45pm

A Day In The Life Of...

Q. Name A. Steve Howl, Viking and Pirate!!

Q. How did you become involved with The Dolmen Grove?

A. My involvement in The Dolmen started with The Dolmen Band. As the Pirates Keep developed so my involvement grew, leading to an excellent relationship between The Dolmen and Poole Re-enactment Society. This relationship then went on to include camps and festivals resulting in the general all round involvement we see today. We are very proud to be involved with The Dolmen and love the way the Pirates Keep is developing. We really enjoy attending the camps too. It gives us chance as a group to relax spend time together and socialise with Grove members.

Q. What is your job title or brief description of job?

A. I work as Charge Hand at: Waste Operations, Environmental and consumer Protection Services, Borough of Poole Q. Can you describe a typical work day?

A. Work starts at 06:30 with rostering up and allocating work to 130 plus guys.

Between myself and 5 other Charge Hands working on a roster system we manage and run the Borough of Poole’s refuse, recycling, green waste and trade daily collections and the cleansing of the Borough’s beaches, parks, open spaces, 370 miles of roads and pavements in and around shopping, retail and residential areas. I work as a team leader which involves problem solving with customers and assisting in maintaining high standards of work along with various office duties.

I’m also chairman of Poole Re-enactment Society which includes Medieval Fight Club, Ulfhedinn Vikings, and Poole Buccaneers. This tends to take up most of my spare time as last year we attended nearly 40 events ranging between full weekend re-enactments to afternoons bucket shaking for various local charities.

Q. How do you feel your Beliefs fit into your everyday life?

A. I believe in treating people decently and fairly and expect the same. I don’t believe in turning the other check more than once.

Q. How do you feel your life has changed since becoming a member of Dolmen Grove?

A. I love the people within both the Dolmen Band and Grove and for me that is what makes The Dolmen so special. Everyone is really friendly and generally up for a good laugh. People are happy to except you for who you are and don’t judge you on what you look like or what you do or don’t have. I also enjoy the different ceremonies and the fact that everyone is welcome to be involved to whatever level suits them.

When we get to be Vikings or Pirates too and have a good scrap then so much the better, it’s all good with me.

Pagans & Pirates

blend historical events with music. This had been collaboration between The Dolmen and local historian and author Mark Vine, including the excellent artwork of Sem Vine, and was to be our first themed album as a band, focusing entirely upon the Sydenham family during the British civil war.

This being the first album to include a narrative to accompany the selection of songs.

The next step was Spirits of the Sea. We continued to work with Mark Vine, and took another step up the evolutionary ladder. This time we included narrations from ‘real life’ actors. By this I mean people whose everyday lives reflected the golden age of Piracy.

Incidentally this is in no way connected to nor are we condoning the behaviour of the likes of the ‘Somalian Pirates’.

Our pirates focus on the romantic and fun side...We are promoting the fantasy side of pirates that involves dressing up in vintage clothing and entertaining people, whilst raising money for charities.

For many people in the Dolmen Grove, Taloch is not just the founder of the Dolmen Grove but is one of the most controversial people within the pagan world.

Either seen in antlers at the centre of a circle drumming up energy or performing a ritual (And let’s face it no - one drums in the quarters like Taloch). He is a familiar face at Stonehenge, and information about him is freely available by simply googling ‘Taloch’.

For others of course, he is the lead vocalist of the highly popular folk – rock group The Dolmen.

But who is the real Taloch?...As the chairman of Dolmen Grove I get to work very closely with Taloch, and as such get to see more of the private side of his life, and I would have to say he is both of these plus a whole lot more besides.

This interview was conducted in his studio at the family home in Weymouth, with a view to addressing some of the issues being focused upon at the moment.

This is both the nerve centre of the Grove and the band where music is recorded, filming is edited and ceremonies and rituals are written and coordinated for the grove.

All of which Taloch does himself.

The first question I had to ask was ......Why have the Dolmen turned to Piracy?

The dolmen had always been involved with various themes of re-enactments …The Crabchurch Conspiracy being a fine example of how we uniquely

The Pirate aspect allows us to put on an event as opposed to merely playing a gig. The events known as ‘The Pirates Keep’ were effectively brought to life through the songs and narrations of the album ‘Spirits of the Sea'. Of course without the assistance of Poole Re -enactment Society we would not have been able to put on such a grand event. Even with their assistance it has taken a year for us to get this whole project working and we are now headed towards the filming of the first episode of the Pirates Keep...but that’s another story!!

The dressing up… The sense of romance and the freedom spirit is all a form of escapism. We live in a world where many people eat their meals watching the news, quite often numb to the atrocities and bloodshed on the screen. It’s easy for people to become completely desensitized to the sheer horror of it all.

We offer them an avenue that allows them to step back in time to a different consciousness and relive the freedom of that golden age of piracy...More than anything it allows them to have fun, and we know they do because they keep coming back. The Bad boys ‘n’ Wenches theme is all quite tongue in cheek;

reminiscent of the humour and easy going nature of the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ films which appeal to adults and children alike.

The style of songs on the Spirits of the Sea album is not new to our repertoire. We have done many things over the years and had many ‘musical adventures’ all of which have been great fun and we absolutely adore this theme because of the happy, positive energy it generates.

In the UK we do not live under the same pressures and cannot truly imagine what it must have been like to live back then. The tyranny of the aristocracy was partially responsible for the common bond amongst those who took to the sea as rebels and pirates.

We should remember that a lot of these pirates were in fact privateers who were in the service of the King. For instance Harri Morgan (Henry Morgan) was an Admiral as well as a privateer whose uncle was the Governor of Jamaica, so he was only ever in the service of the king, even when he was robbing and looting ships. This meant it was not in his best interest to kill anybody...In fact there were only a few individuals that did...and they didn’t live very long themselves. Acts of murder would generally result in a price being put on the culprits’ head, which in turn led to them being hunted by just about every sea faring nation there was looking to claim the reward.

And now the Storm is coming....

I knew that Taloch was referring to the new Storm album which is to debut at various pagan festivals across Europe, so I decided to take the opportunity to ask him if he saw a connection between Pagans and Pirates...?

One thing that stands out when playing at a pagan festival is how much pagans enjoy life. Paganism is all about celebrating the natural world while not only focusing on, but enjoying ones spirituality. Music is a very important factor to this and audience participation is very important to The Dolmen. The pirate theme means that we can write songs which invite people to sing along. At a ‘Pirates Keep’ event the audience are as equally involved as the band itself.

Many people are unaware of the way pirates actually ran things. They weren’t all just a bunch of thieves and gangsters on the ocean. There were both good and bad people in the pirate community just as there are in all communities, and whilst we tell the stories of some of the less reputable pirates we do so from an historical viewpoint ,rather than a condoning one. Generally pirate ships were democracies where the crew voted for the person they wanted to be Captain of the ship, We focus on those positive aspects...The solidarity of people who have been thrown together from various backgrounds. These were harsh times, when the common people had no rights whatsoever and were completely dependent on the aristocracy. Sadly the aristocracy for many reasons were not always blessed with compassion and benevolence, and many people lost their lands and were forced to leave their homes.

For those unable to find work on land, the sea became their only option.

That is how it was back then. Despite all the profits (which were in effect their wages) many pirates of the Caribbean started out in the service of the Crown.

Harri Morgan is a great example of the pirates of that era, unlike Captain Kidd who is a prime example of how the Crown would treat you when you went against what they deemed as ethical.

It pays to remember that history is written with a view to making examples of pirates, conveniently forgetting that many of those pirates had already suffered at the hands of the aristocracy, and if captured would be tortured and executed by those who had driven them to piracy in the first place.

Like those early pirates and privateers who left their homes to escape the tyranny of the aristocracy, seeking the freedom of the high seas...We too, as modern pagans are stepping free from the chains of religious tyranny, and seeking a new spiritual freedom.

By doing this we are rebelling against the major religious influences in the world which have programmed mankind’s consciousness for thousands of years. We have been indoctrinated by them to believe that we must think or act in the way that the individual religions dictate to their respective followers. In much the same way as the crew of a pirate ship was made up of people irrespective of their creed, language or colour.

This unique form of equality and unity found aboard a pirate ship is what we strive for in the pagan world.

The neo-pagan world is still very young and as such is constantly, growing and learning ....Evolving in such a way that allows the individual the freedom to develop and understand their own spiritual path. As the individual grows spiritually so the pagan world is also developing its united spiritual consciousness, by recapping and triggering spiritual memories from the fragments of the past which feel natural to us.

The Dolmen Grove has always actively promoted this spiritual freedom, consisting of pagans from a variety of paths. We refuse to endorse the extremists and fanatical groves and covens that start up groups believing that everything must be done their way, often seeing other groups as wrong or unspiritual because they refuse to play by their rules or back their ideas.

The Dolmen Grove does not support religious fanaticism.

We believe we are here to embrace a life that is enjoyable. On the one hand you have your spirituality, and no – one can take that away from you but you still need to live day to day. If you can tie the two together then you are very much on the right track, and what better way honour the Gods than by enjoying life.

Like those early pirates we are part of a rebellion, the difference being ours is spiritual. The members of the Dolmen Grove are free from the constraints of religious tyranny, and every individual member has the freedom to pursue their own spiritual path.

So we are Pirates in a pagan sense, and also keeping your tongue firmly in the side of your cheek.

Lastly I asked Taloch if he had any thoughts to share with those who may be just starting out in paganism.

"Never carry ones spirituality like a rucksack of jagged rocks, honour the powers that put us here by living life to the full, celebrate in the glory of

love and share it where and when you can, and most important... Be yourself” One of the great things about spending time with Taloch is you realise very quickly just how infectious his sense of fun is. Two things that always stand out for me are the genuine love and affection he has for his family, and his overwhelming passion for life. It is a shame that those who malign him through ignorance and jealousy don’t follow his example and enjoy life a bit more!

SPIRITS OF THE SEA The double album Spirits of the Sea takes us back to that Golden age of piracy from 1650 – 1730.

A time when the pirates, and buccaneers of the Caribbean answered only to the call of the sea and the promise of the treasure she held. They take what they want and women love them for it because let’s face it there aren’t many women who don’t love bad boys!! Not to mention the odd woman pirate, who were not only the feminists of their time, but were quite often more deadly than their male counterparts.

The Dolmen take that wild sense of freedom, superstition and mystique that the sea holds for so many, and add to it a clever blend of the traditional sea shanty heavily laced with the unique medieval folk rock sound that is ‘The Dolmen’.

From the first track on disc one we are taken back in time, to a small tavern frequented by local pirates and those who have either crossed paths or swords with them as ‘Spirits of the Sea’ successfully recreates the atmosphere of The Pirates Keep. It is in this tavern that we are to be entertained alongside its clientele with songs of a life on the high seas, hard drink and the women who have briefly captured their hearts.

On disc two the band continues to entertain us with songs, although these are now punctuated by various locals within the tavern recounting tales of fear and reverence centred around some of the more infamous pirates.

This album plucks at the romantic heartstrings of the rebel in all of us, from the ethereal imagery on the cover to the last note played ....So I recommend you dim the lights, pour yourself a glass o’ rum and sit back in your favourite armchair, and join us at the Pirates keep and let The Dolmen entertain you with songs and tales of The Spirits of the Sea. For further information or to download this cd visit the website http://thedolmen.com/ Or email at: - for UK enquiries thedolmen@thedolmen.com For US enquiries dolmen.usa@thedolmen.com

3

TOUR DATES 2012 UK

Saturday 3rd March...Old Ship Dorchester Sunday 4th March...The Drovers Inn Wimborne (acoustic afternoon gig) Monday 5th March...The Boot Weymouth Thursday 15th March...The Boot Weymouth Sunday 1st April...The Nelson Poole Monday 2nd April...The Boot Weymouth Sunday 8th April...The Drovers Inn Wimborne (acoustic afternoon gig) Thursday 12th April...The Boot Weymouth Friday 27th - Monday 30th April .... Dolmen Grove Beltane Festival Dorset Friday 15th - Monday18th June...3 Wishes Faery Festival Cornwall Friday 10th - Sunday 12th August ...Children of Artemis Oxfordshire Friday 24th - Monday 27th August...Dolmen Grove Tribal Dreams Festival Saturday 15th September... Re-enactment festival; The Battle of Mortimer Cross Leominster th Saturday 27 October ...Faery Ball Glastonbury Saturday 17th November...Witchfest International Festival London

TOUR DATES 2012 EUROPE Friday 18th May... Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Rastede Germany Saturday 19th May...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Rastede Germany Friday 26th May...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Hohenwestedt Germany Saturday 27th May...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Hohenwestedt Germany Saturday 30th June...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Hohenlockstedt Germany Saturday 14th July Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Buckeburg Germany Sunday 15th July Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Buckeburg Germany Saturday 21st July Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Buckeburg Germany Sunday 22nd July Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Buckeburg Germany Saturday 18th August Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Telgte Germany Sunday 19th August Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Teglte Germany Saturday 1st September...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Hamburg Germany nd Sunday 2 September...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Hamburg Germany Saturday 8th September...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Stadthagen

Germany Sunday 9th September...Mittelalterlich Phantasie Spectaculum Stadthagen Germany

Within the Dolmen Grove there is a vast array of talent, some of it we see on a regular basis while some of it we are less aware of. Since 2008 the artwork of Semirani Vine has graced the cd covers of the Dolmen aswell as some of the bands posters and fliers. Many of us will be aware of the images if not the artist. There is an ethereal fluidity to Semirani Vine that captures the graceful spirit that exists within the subject.

Whilst Semirani Vine is well established as an artist her daughter Mo Vine is just beginning to get established. Although her style is very different to her Mother , she has inherited the ability to bring to the foreground the beauty that exists in everything. In the following article Semirani and Mo Vine look back over Mo’s journey through childhood to become the accomplished artist she is today.

MOO and ME

Me: Morwenna, better known as Moo, first became fascinated with drawing as a little toddler. Whereas at a similar age her elder sister was completely absorbed by me writing the alphabet and numbers, Moo would ask me to draw families – of teddy bears, cows, cats and pigs which she would trace and colour in.

Moo: My main memories from my childhood are filled with smells of acrylic paint, oils and wax, burnt dinners from when mum was so absorbed in her projects that she lost track of time. Huge boards and canvasses waiting to be completed and finished pieces coming and going, toxic materials out of bounds but so tempting to little fingers and a big curiosity

.

Me: The three of us would do little expressive exercises like drawing to music, all the usual splashing about with colour and finger painting. I could quietly tell that Moo was interested in line and shape, her sister pattern and colour.

Moo: Mum became a voluntary teaching assistant helping children to develop art and craft skills and organising activities and small projects at my primary school. Following this I became quite sought after when it came to including drawings and diagrams in other kids’ class work, I’d often neglect my own work in order to help others.

Me: In year 1 no one could understand how it was that Moo’s class drawings were unfinished till her teacher discovered the children on her table were taking advantage of her skills, survivalists as most children prove to be.

Moo: During my final year at primary school a teacher discovered a rather unflattering set of cartoons I’d put together of all the staff, exaggerating their personalities and features. To my amazement they were extremely amused and commissioned final versions to be used around the school for various purposes. When it came to my final day the now former headmaster’s lasting advice was ‘Stick to your art, Morwenna.’

Me: Art and craft at primary level is a delicious exploration of first techniques: modelling, cutting, sticking, folding, mixing, crumpling, and discovering some of the things that basic materials and colours can offer. As you move up through formal education however, bound by rigid governmental curriculum requirements, there is much that perplexes the freedom art study needs to naturally develop in the individual. A childhood enthusiasm can be dulled by the process. I would never denigrate art as less than any other academic subject like too many try to do. For even the most adept at any subject there is trial and struggle, the overcoming of failure and misconception, a dedicated honing and readjusting of perception which persists through a lifetime. The study of past masters – they are not termed so for no reason - and the current avant-garde, whether in heart of hearts is not entirely enjoyed, is by-the-by. Their history is there to readily take your hand along your own route of discovery to find your personal means of expression.

Both Moo and I found the boundaries of secondary art education tough. Though at the time of course my duty as a mum was to encourage her to ‘tick the boxes’ and get by, to finish what was asked to have a hope of expanding into what I knew was exciting stuff later, I quietly understood the way she was feeling. Your own experience is spread out behind you and your mission for your child is to improve upon it.

Moo: My experiences of Art in Secondary school are good and bad. Where I was extremely lucky to have a home art studio at my disposal, guidance from a professional artist, not to mention growing up in an artistic world, I also felt that having to work to specific rules and expectations slightly narrowed my personal vision and I often felt that because my work was more fuelled by imagination, rather than what was possible in that environment it wasn’t always what fitted the standard requirements. This followed into A-level where I excelled at the observational work, life drawing and sketching but when it came to my final piece my ideas were too big for my skill and consequently by the time it got to the examiner it had fallen apart, and I received a U for my efforts. I feel this contributed to my disconnection with art up until recently where my passion has resurfaced.

Me: Well, secondary education’s final role is often to point you in the general direction of some kind of lucrative career, in my case architecture, only based on the draughtsmanship that scraped me through exams by the skin of my teeth. But things happen, and the Art within is like a little opportunistic guiding light, a voice, that will, if it’s allowed, take you to all sorts of extraordinary places, wherever life and circumstance lead you. try many different pathways before you find which Moo: After A-levels I endeavoured in many different one is best for you. jobs, some travelling, some static, some voluntary, with a view to a achieving a standard income.

Eventually I decided to go to university to do events management as I am quite a skilled organiser and have experience in the field, however the course was not what I had expected and I became increasingly more interested in sketching. Sometimes you have to

Me: Both Moo and her sister and I share so much in so many diverse and inspiring ways, naturally in part stemming from a familiar gene pool; an overwhelmingly (i.e. potentially difficult and quite contrary!) independence of mind, but a passionate care, a sense of mental freedom, a mistrust of pretentiousness and an immense curiosity, all, in fact, that Art demands. Something that is special between Moo and me is an added knowledge of mortality in youth, of the frail thread with which we hang onto life, of the tenuous link that exists with the material and fleshly world we endeavour to interpret in quiet shape and line. A young awareness of physicality offers a realisation that every day is a gift, a spark that gives strength to perceptions.

Moo: I feel that these experiences from early childhood watching my mum paint and being surrounded by great imagination, to the ups and downs of school and then life beyond guiding me towards this career. I first rediscovered a passion for art during a turbulent time in my life and the calming and relaxing power of just sitting down and drawing was an immense coping strategy. The opportunities that have arisen from that little salvation are incredible for such a short space of time and I am seriously looking at developing my business sense alongside it.

And Me: Recently Moo’s interest has blissfully flourished, principally focussed on living things, life and the expression of it, an interest we share very much in common. She has been so encouraged by the comments she has received that she is inspired to carry on. Even a brief glance through her online portfolio, Mo Vine Sketch and Design on Facebook, reveals her new and unbounded enthusiasm. On the few occasions she becomes a little uncertain about the way a piece is going, all I have to do is spend a few minutes trying to explain in the peculiar broken way language is applied to abstract idea, that strange communication between subject and object, hand and eye, and I know she understands completely. http://www.facebook.com/MovSketchandDesign

Poetry from Within the Grove Dorset Pirates!!

We all be Dorset Pirates!

Takes our rum and women to sea.

With gold, and songs of battle The skull ‘n bones our banner be.

We all come down to Dorset.

‘Cos pirate wenches we all be!

With rum, and songs of battle We shags the crew repeatedly!

We all be Dorset pirates, The Tyburn rope waits our return.

And we curse the hangman.

Soon in hell with us he’ll burn!!

We all come for the Dolmen!

And for pagan unity.

As heathen Vikings join us.

Their drinking horns filled up with mead.

We all come down to Dorset.

The pirate’s keep we’ll drink and whore.

With rum and songs of battles, And take no bullshit is our law!

‘Cos we all be Dorset pirates, Takes our rum and women to sea.

With gold and songs of battle.

The skull and crossbones forever be!!!

By Chrissey Luna Le Fey (To the tune of the ‘We all come from the Goddess’ chant)

Jolly Roger If the skull and bones I hoist so high Doesn't make your blood run cold Then look deep Into my eyes And believe all you've been told I'll take your life And then your gold In the light of early dawn Cos Davy Jones Has owned my soul Since the day that I was born When darkness falls The stars will guide Us on white horses back to port Where women wait On the harbour side And rums sold by the quart And at first light In a rum soaked haze I’m back upon the seas Where my black heart And wicked ways Won’t listen to your pleas For I care not About your kin Or how much you love your wife And knowing I'll pay The wages of sin Shall not save your life So if Jolly Roger's In your sight Heed all that you have heard Bring fast about And take flight Lest I have the last word !

By Diane Narraway

Bastard Cruel Captains God save us from them bastard cruel Captains The flogging and kicking from an evil first mate There’s many a poor man been taken from family Dragged up the gang-plank and left at hell’s gate If ever I live through these cruel years of hell boys If ever I get through this heartache and pain Never no more will I cast an eye seaward I’ll never go near that salt water again But when the flag is in danger and the cannons are roaring When it’s glory or death boys with old Davy Jones Then it’s come on you Jack Tars, the pride of old England ....

But then it’s back to whipping the flesh from our bones So spare a thought for old England’s poor seamen Press-ganged aboard on those big rolling waves Fed on stale water and weevily biscuits Beaten like dogs and treated like slaves Them bastard cruel Captains killed many a good man Them bastard cruel Captains caused many a grudge But no courtroom in England would ever convict them That must be left to a far higher judge.

By Mark Vine

The Protector Of Albions Shore The day will come when yet again The seas will know of English pirate men They who have sailed the seven seas Away off shore with a following breeze Famous men who lead their crew To acts of piracy and daring do But they are said to turn from one pirate fighter The mightiest pirate known only as . . . Black Midnighter He has a beastly crew on his deep black ship And all of them draw sword from the hip They have sailed the seas around the Albion shore Taken and sunk galleons by the score Sent many a crew to join the dead Then set their sails and forged ahead Onwards will always sail a merry crew Led by the darkest one . . . you now know who When out at sea atop a storm tossed wave When even brave men think only of their grave Men of strength, and men of justice Men who know where richest galleon is Those men will turn to him for guidance Which he gives to them from an evil glance Up aloft and reef the sail ‘Be a pirate on my ship through every gale Hold your heart within my black-hearted band I will see you safely to home to port in any land But should you fail or try to cross me You’ll take a swim in the locker of Old Davey’ This ghostly pirate still guards Albions fair shore And when the time is right he’ll pirate once more In his ship ‘Dolmen Galleon’ He’ll save this land and take Spanish bullion So rest you lubbers of the land The black-heart pirate is close at hand Just watch the coast on a storm tossed night At the helm of his ship stands a welcome sight

By Talisman

PSYCHOMETRY PAINTING A PICTURE OF PORTLAND Psychometry is the extra sensory ability to read information from an inanimate object, and comes from the Greek psukhē - meaning spirit or soul and metron - meaning measure.

In the same way that we have physical senses so we also have soul senses...Senses which although they pertain to the spiritual can be used as extensions of the physical.

Psychometry being the soul sense of touch.

In my opinion (which I hasten to add will not be shared by everyone,) psychometry is at its strongest and most beneficial when used to read the far past.

I tend to consider that using psychometry to read the recent past or even the present is futile. People generally know what has recently happened to them and they certainly know what is happening now. I concede that if I was paying good money to have my future read I would want to know the reader was genuine and the best way to establish this is by reading a small amount of the past. That being said there are plenty of more comprehensive ways to read the future, with clairvoyance and tarot topping the bill!

Like I said previously psychometry is at its best when reading the far past, and with that in mind I decided to apply this to The Island of Portland.

It is not difficult to discover hard facts about Portland (although some of the hard facts can be shaky) but I wanted to learn more about the spirit of this small tied island and get a closer more intimate look at some of those ancient pagans and pirates that went before us.

Much physical evidence has been found to suggest that Portland itself has been inhabited since the Mesolithic period if not earlier.

Curiously and yet far from co-incidentally these early Mesolithic settlements were found around Portland Bill where the Dolmen Grove hold circles to celebrate the wheel of the year. Hand in hand we stand on the shoulders of our most ancient forefathers.....Shadows from the aeon of the matriarch.

I began my own personal quest into the Islands history sat on the Cliffside at Portland Bill, with my palms faced downward on the ground.

As I allowed the energy of the past to flow through me, I soon become aware of the tribal shaman of a people wholly dependent on the elements and the sea for survival. They are constantly looking to him for good harvests, safe fishing....And the shaman himself draped in the bones

and seashells of harvests gone by, standing on the cliffs looking out to sea dancing and chanting with the tribe following his lead.

The dancing and chanting becoming ever louder and more frenzied until reaching a fever pitch that culminates in the offering...The blood sacrifice that is offered to the great spirit of the ocean in exchange for food. To them the life of one of their children in exchange for the continued survival of the clan seems a small price to pay.

These are the children of the dawn...Of the first aeon whose need for survival exceeded all else.

While witnessing the rituals of the Stone Age could not be considered ideal viewing for the faint hearted, it did provide me with a very real sense of the past. I continued my journey with a much deeper understanding of the witchcraft of the aeon of the matriarch.

Whilst we may find the concept of their rituals unpleasant, by feeling their presence we can gain some understanding of the primal needs of our early ancestors.

Saxon fishermen returning from their early morning catch, or the Saxon longboats of traders getting ready to sail further afield.

On the surface it seems much like any other early morning until a returning fishing boat tells of a long ship they had seen earlier. Although it is not yet visible on the horizon, there is much discussion some of which appears quite heated. It is not until it comes into view that a young boy is sent to fetch the shire reeve.

Although I know this is the pre requisite to the Viking invasion of Britain I sense no obvious fear from the crowd. In fact I sense anticipation...As the ship draws nearer, more and more people gather in the bay.

The crowd is not made up of pitch fork wielding yokels; there are as many women and children as there are men and no atmosphere of aggression. The shire reeve arrives to greet them after they land.

At this point the unsuspecting islanders are assuming these will be Scandinavian traders.

I can feel my blood running cold as the Vikings march up the beach. Although nothing is said in English it can be assumed that it is their captain who draws his sword and plunges it into the belly of the unsuspecting reeve, smiling as the dying reeve crumples before him. It is over in an instant.

The horrified crowd seem too shocked to retaliate, with most of them turning to flee for the safety of their homes. In any given situation there will always be those who will stand and fight although in this instance this would have been ill advised.

From there I travelled to Portland Harbour which being fairly early in the morning I shared the beach with people walking their dogs, oblivious to the shadows of the past surrounding them.

Using the same technique as I used at Portland Bill I watch the local Anglo

Unlike the Romans these raiders had no interest in conquering Portland. They were Pirates whose sole intention was to steal, loot, pillage, plunder, and readily dispose of anyone who got in their way.

Most disturbing was how little respect they appeared to have for human life

Unlike the ancient shaman, these pirates killed not for survival but for wealth, and in some cases sadly for fun.

fatigue with only a couple of miles of shingle laying between them and yet another potential battle.

I left the Island yet as I reached the end of the beach road I felt compelled to stop at the Ferrybridge and take a last look at the Island.

I recalled that the first invasion of Portland was by the Romans who named this Island Vindelis, although it is unclear as to why.

I remembered reading somewhere that it was Latin for slinger and the Romans had so named the Island because the amount of stones on Chesil Beach had meant it was ideal for slingshot use....However the nearest translation to Vindelis I could find was; Vindico meaning... to avenge, to punish, to liberate, to deliver, to protect, to claim, or to assume.

Men who were already blistered, battle worn and hungry, marched across the cumbersome shingle with no more idea of what lay before them than the islanders.

The icy ocean spray whip lashing their weathered faces as they slipped tripped and stumbled their way across the causeway only to find themselves on an island, which to them must have seemed, rugged harsh, over exposed to the elements and prone to flooding.

It was easy to understand how this bleak environment would have seemed far more of a punishment than a conquest particularly when compared to the splendour of Rome.

It seemed quite reasonable that Vindelis was in fact originated from Vindico, as it seemed likely that the conquering Romans would have viewed themselves as claiming or assuming entitlement to the Island, but in that case surely they would have called Britain; Vindelis. .

I picked up a stone and held it to my forehead. Closing my physical eyes I allowed my third eye to view the imagery of the past. It is not long before I am surrounded by the Roman war machine looking across Chesil Beach to that small rocky Isle, shrouded in an eerie mist.

Whilst they would have been a formidable sight to the under prepared islanders many of them had little fight left in them.

Marius mules weighed down by military supplies, wounded and suffering from

This particular journey had come to an end but Portland is an Island steeped in a dark history that is brought to our attention through myths, legends and tales of long ago. It is a history that is home to Witches, Pirates, Smugglers, Invading Armies as well as Mermaids and Sea Monsters. The spirit of the island exists in the hearts of every local and beneath the feet of every traveller.

CONJURER’S LODGE “The English in general, and indeed most of the men of learning in Europe, have given up all account of witches and apparitions, as mere old wives' fables. I am sorry for it, and I willingly take this opportunity of entering my solemn protest against this violent compliment which so many that believe in the Bible pay to those who do not believe it. . . . the giving up of witchcraft is in effect giving up the Bible. With my latest breath I will bear testimony against giving up to infidels one great proof of the invisible world; I mean that of witchcraft and apparitions, confirmed by the testimony of all ages.” -John Wesley’s Journal – 1768

On the Dorset Island of Portland in the year 1816, Wesleyan minister Francis Derry delivered a fiery sermon to a gathering of parishioners. Condemning those members of the congregation who still held belief in (or perhaps even practiced) the ancient craft of the Witch. Derry’s sermon was to some not only an ultimatum, but a challenge. By the time the sermon was concluded, a line had been drawn in the little church that would mark a decade’s division.

Precedence for what was to be Derry’s heavy-handed treatment began in the firmly rooted convictions of John Wesley, the founder of what eventually became Methodism. A hundred years before Derry’s Portland sermon, the 1716 haunting of his family home by the “Epworth poltergeist” had galvanized Wesley’s belief in the “invisible world”. Wesley’s writings and journals abound with references to the powers of various dark or divine forces.

By the 19th century the majority of Wesleyan followers, along with their parent, the Anglican Church, were more and more influenced by scientific rationalism, wishing instead to have such ‘superstitious nonsense’ as belief in Witchcraft purged from their ranks.

Yet still, in the little Portland congregation were several who would not be moved by Derry’s sermon. With blazing indignation, the Reverend has their names struck from the records of Christian brotherhood. In those days of righteous Christianity, this was as good as consignment to the furthest circles of Hell. (When writing of the incident more than eighty years later, Portland Methodist Robert Pierce, who whilst convinced that “a stern policy to deal with this mischievous superstition” was necessary, nevertheless regretted Derry’s zealous methods.)

It is said there were between fifty and perhaps as many sixty people total that left the small Portland church on that day. Led by two prominent lay preachers named Charles Whittle and Robert Hinde, their next move was extraordinary for its time but perhaps not for its place.

Proceeding to establish their own church, they defiantly and openly named their new chapel “Conjurers Lodge”. The stone building that housed this remarkable congregation still exists.

Although it retains the same name today, it is no longer a church dedicated to a belief in Witchcraft, but a builder’s yard.

Portland is an epic place with a rich historical heritage of legend and lore. The surrounding sea itself is scattered with ghostly ship wrecks, and tales a-plenty have been told for ages of Black Dogs, Mermaids, and Sea Monsters of fantastic proportion. Among its many unique sites is the famously named “Pirates Graveyard”. Located at the top of the Island near Church Hope, where many grave stones carry the symbol of the Skull & Bones. Whilst piratical mayhem is certainly part of Portland history, obviously the graveyard is mistakenly named, as in truth these carved symbols were adopted by the Freemasons, another group with a not unexpected vigorous presence on an Island where stonemasonry abounds.

In fact, the first major building encountered when driving onto the island is a Masonic meetinghouse. No less than six lodges exist on the Island...A remarkably high number for an area measuring no more than four and one-half miles. ‘Modern’ Freemasonry has dominated the Island - at least formally - since 1864, with the establishment of the first consecrated Lodge. It is credible to assume that earlier stonemasons’ societies would have existed on the quarry isle of Portland, of all places, having been so on the mainland for centuries before (the earliest known “mason’s marks” are said to be on Norwich Cathedral and date from around 1119).

Portland Witchcraft is fairly much in keeping with similar then-known veins of the practice that were condemned by everyday folk. Those classed as Witchcraft practitioners were not seen as working for the common good; basically it was a title given to people considered evil, or who were consorting with the Devil. ‘Witcha’ or ‘Witche’ very much referred to particular individuals who were said to be working with evil spirits in acts that were detrimental to others. In contrast, there were many ‘Cunning men and women’ who performed spells for healing, harmony and beneficent communal good. I personally think that the bulk of Witch history available to us today is extremely limited. It reflects a confusion of a variety of activities of the past, so that now we have an altogether thick soup under the single heading of Witchcraft. But no matter the intent of the practitioner of the Art, time and again in history such individuals have been feared and singled out for persecution by the community and its institutions.

To me, the name ‘Witch’ is simply a title which is given to certain people as stated above.

For those who never understood these particular individuals, just as it is today, fear and apprehension took control and they were condemned. It is interesting to keep in mind that this was not just done in the Middle Ages: those who come under the title of Witch were persecuted well before Christianity. Even now as Neo - Paganism and a more ‘open mindedness’ finds its feet, and subsequently the title Witch given new meaning, there will always be those who are considered outcast because of their associations and practices within the realm of spirits.

The point of the foregoing is to establish that those who were accused and shunned by the Portland church back in the early 1800’s were not all necessarily practicing Witches but were most assuredly connected in some way. This theory is borne out by the fact that after walking out, leaving the pastor to himself with the remnants of the congregation, they boldly and publicly declared their new meeting house to be a “Conjurers Lodge”.

The Portland people were a hard working but wilfully closed community. Cut off from the mainland though only by a short distance ensured the sort of family and community spirit as is found in many small villages or settlements of the time. (On Portland, a person not born of the Island was known then and even now as “Kimberlin” (stranger), whilst the elders of Portland have long maintained that their ancestry differs from the mainland, even that of close- by Weymouth.)

In short, these close knit inhabitants knew each other, were closely akin to each other, and from the many historical connections based on thousands of years of occupation the Island had its customs and practices which, to be fair, were not against the new religion of Christianity but continued to run alongside it. (Keeping in mind that the religion of Wicca is a fairly modern invention, and that the practice of traditional Witchcraft has no past evidence of ties with any particular religion other than the wrongful association between it and the Christian Devil; individuals who were accused of being part of the Craft were actually few and far between. As we know many an innocent soul died as a result of false accusation).

But what about those who were the real Witches... Those who did work with spirits and practiced the Arts ...Those who had genuine ability? In order to be called a Witch an individual had to be seen as one, which meant there were deeds you were associated with or had to have performed which earned you the title from folk around.

Those who became the founders of the Witches Coven Conjurers Lodge were quite an unusual case, and in fact, became a massive embarrassment to the Church and to Rev’d Derry, whose ‘circuit’ on the island ended not long after. It wasn’t that they wanted to fight with the Church; they simply refused to lay aside the heritage of a lifetime and follow the rest of the country under the reign of such religious zealots: or to turn against those amongst them whom they knew in fact to be real Witches and who were most likely respected individuals within their community. Whilst the prevailing attitude of the church at that time was not necessarily outright persecution but instead condemnation of the Islanders’ convictions as being based on ‘superstitious nonsense’ that was anathema to ‘enlightened thought’ the folk of Conjurers Lodge knew better – after all, were they not dealing with Kimberlin who knew nothing of the Island people, or of the traditions and customs that arose during the long centuries of isolation?

The Island holds many secrets and many traditions, and for those who are skilled in the arts.

There are also places by which many a Witch since the rise of the mighty Dolmen stones and Stone circles, gather to commune and interact with those brethren of the close realms.

The art of magick would be practiced, and based on the nature and intent of it, the community would no doubt benefit by these workings. The belief in the abilities of such individuals was enough to make a church congregation fly apart in support which gives one a clue that those local Witches at the time were not all considered to be bad.

This reversal in many churches of the time from outright persecution, torture and even condemning to death those accused of Witchcraft, to the view that only unenlightened bumpkins believe in such things, takes quite an ironic twist in the history of Portland’s Conjurers Lodge. They of the little chapel would keep their Witches thank you, and their curious blending of Christianity along with it. It is no stretch to envision that within the walls of a chapel with such a name, at least some of those sixty souls not only held to a belief in the Craft, but practiced it. And a lot of their neighbours knew it, and knew that some of it was for the benefit of the community as a whole.

Not too many years ago, I revived Conjurers Lodge (under the Umbrella of the Dolmen Grove) in order to establish a connection to the early Witches of the Island, which has been done. Through those who have heeded the call to understand the authentic nature of the Lodge and the original Witch heritage of the Island of Portland, the revived Lodge pays tribute to the early Portland Witches of Dorset, and has been itself, an experience steeped in magical wonder.

In our Present day we have two Witch Circles functioning from the Island...The Dolmen Grove open circle called and run by the Witches of Portland by which all are welcome to gather and enjoy a fellowship celebrating the points of the year which have become a customary practice in today’s Witchcraft and carry forth these traditions into the new millennium. We also have Conjurers Lodge - A closed Coven that is purely to sustain the natural born essence of those earlier individuals who had the misfortune or blessing to be called a Witch.

In the spirit of peace Taloch

The Portland Witches of the Dolmen Grove Witches have been gathering on the isle of Portland for thousands of years to celebrate the wheel of the year and honour their ancestors. Today the Portland witches of the Dolmen Grove continue the work of the ancients, holding ceremonial circles over the magical cliffs of Portland. .

Portland is such a magical island, which throughout history has been home to many stone circles.

The Witches here today have been drawn to the magical properties of the island, the magic of the elements and a peace which radiates from within the island. Everything you require to do a ritual or working is at hand here...Herbs which have been used for many years grow locally and are freely available, the elements, and the power of the ancestors which can be felt by many.

The Portland Witches of the Dolmen Grove continue to follow many of the old traditions of witchcraft, working with nature and the elements. We believe in positive thinking as the power of the mind is the most powerful tool available to us when practising magic.

We regularly hold open circles on Portland to celebrate the wheel of the year The circle we held to celebrate the winter solstice over the cliffs at Portland Bill was especially magical as after we had closed the circle we realised we were surrounded by numerous fairy rings. All of which appeared in areas where we have previously held circles.

In all of our circles we encourage people to enter the circle and participate People are welcome bring anything to the circle they may wish to add

Into the Cauldron This page is for recipes connected to witchcraft in all its forms...

This includes washes and waters, powders and incenses, and magical oils.

Washes are magical preparations which are either sprinkled or used in a pre ritual bath.

Powders are a mixture of dry ingredients that are either sprinkled around or placed in a pouch or alternatively worn as an amulet.

Incenses are largely made up of resins and/or herbs which are burned on a hot charcoal disc.

Magical oils are generally dabbed on the brow, throat and heart, although some spells may require dabbing them on all orifices. Occasionally they are used for burning, sprinkling or adding to a pre ritual bath.

For those wishing to take a gentler and possibly more subtle approach there is always pot pourri, which may be used around the home or in place of Earth on the altar.

Four Thieves Vinegar...

This is one of the older preparations - dating back to the black death of the middle ages. There are several legends associated with Four Thieves Vinegar the most popular being set in France during the time of the plague. The story recounts that four thieves were caught robbing those plague victims who were either dead or very close to death. Faced with execution they offered up their secret recipe of the magical preparation which had provided them with immunity from the plague. Because herbal vinegars had been in use for centuries by the middle ages it is far more likely that if this preparation existed it would have been viewed as medicinal not magical.

The recipe consists of wine vinegar and/or cider vinegar, plus any four different herbs or spices from the following list: (One to represent each thief) For banishing...

For protection...

For healing...

Black Pepper Garlic Thyme Cayenne Lavender Lavender Sage Sage Black Pepper Rue Rosemary Rosemary Dragons Blood Wormw ood Garlic Dragons Blood Store for four days in a consecrated place prior to use shaking once daily.

NB: Ingredients may vary according to source and some old recipes as a health recipe include juniper and camphor.

If using for banishing sprinkle around the house - inside as well as out paying particular attention to the threshold/s.

If using for protection sprinkle around the outside of the house, paying particular attention to the threshold/s.

If using for healing it is suggested that you drink it or bathe in it. I am not sure that I would be willing to drink anything with camphor in it, and bearing in mind that some herbs can irritate the skin I would not recommend that you bathe in it. An alternative method of using four thieves vinegar I would suggest that it can be sprinkled as part of your circle, or on a poppet.

RECIPES

Lemon drizzle cake Ingredients 175g unsalted butter, softened 275g caster sugar 2 unwaxed lemons 3 large free range eggs 225g self raising flour Method Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas mark 4 Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking/greaseproof paper Finely grate the zest of the 2 lemons into a mixing bowl Add the butter, and 175g caster sugar and beat until light and fluffy Add in the eggs on at a time, each with a tablespoon of the flour to prevent curdling Fold in the rest of the flour, and pour into the tin Bake for about 45 mins, until risen and golden As soon as the cake goes into the oven, squeeze the juice from the lemons – this should make approx. 100ml.

Add the remaining caster sugar to the lemon juice and leave the mix somewhere warm while the cake bakes, stirring now and then When the cake is cooked, leave it in the tin and pierce all over with a skewer. Slowly drizzle on the syrupy mix so that it soaks into the hot cake, and then leave to cool in the tin.

(I also like to sprinkle over some dry sugar too!)

By Jess Stephens

Cheesy Muffins Ingredients 50ml milk 50ml vegetable oil 125ml natural yoghurt 2eggs 185g plain flour ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon of paprika ½ teaspoon of salt and pepper 85g grated cheddar 4 spring onions 75g sun blushed tomatoes (optional) Method

Combine milk, oil, yoghurt and eggs in a jug.

In a large bowl sieve flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, paprika, salt and pepper.

Stir in cheese and spring onions.

Add the liquid ingredients and it is important to mix them together quickly (It will look curdled at this stage) Bake at 180 degrees C/Gas Mark 4 For an extra cheesy muffin sprinkle parmesan cheese on top before baking.

By Anne Klimmt

'Spring Equinox Cake' Ingredients 4 eggs- separated 1-2 teaspoons cream of tartar 3 tablespoons cold water 12oz caster sugar ½ pint of not quite boiling water 4 teaspoons baking powder A pinch of salt 8oz plain flour (sieved) A few drops of vanilla essence Grated rind of ½ a lemon Optional: a teaspoon of honey Method Grease a deep 8" cake tin and pre-heat oven to gas mark 2 Whisk the egg whites, with cream of tartar until they are stiff, and then put them to one side.

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and cold water for 5 minutes.

Gradually beat in the sugar, and add the hot water.

(The yolks should be getting whiter and whiter) Beat in salt, baking powder and flour...whilst beating concentrate on your personal blessings all the time.

Stir in vanilla and lemon rind gradually slowing down the beating.

Fold in the egg whites...slowly and then turn mixture into your tin.

Bake the cake for 1 hour 30 minutes at gas mark 2, do not peek!! (For at least 45 minutes) This cake should rise high in its tin, and should be very light and white in colour.

Remove from the oven, and check by gently pressing the edge of the cake, it should spring back nicely!!

I usually decorate mine with a light dusting of icing sugar; but you can decorate as you wish.

When cooled sit back and have a breath of fresh Spring Air...A big slice of this wonderful cake!!.... Enjoy !!

By Denny Bottley (RavensWing)

Rebecca’s Party Piece Ingredients Firstly you need a cob/cottage loaf (Around loaf with a knob on top) If you can't get one of those, any roundish loaf will do. . 1 small onion (chopped) 1 clove of garlic (crushed) 2 tubs of Philadelphia cheese (or similar) Bacon bits (as many as you fancy) Grated Cheddar and Mozarella Method Cut the top off (you're going to use it as the lid so don't butcher it!) and scoop the bread out of the crust inside (don't make the bottom or sides too thin or it won't support itself later Fry the onion, garlic and bacon bits.

Once they're all softened and cooked through add the Philadelphia style cheese, some grated mature cheddar and some mozzarella.

Stir through until all the cheese is melted.

Stand your hollowed out bread on foil and pour the cheesy mixture into the bread and put the lid on.

Wrap the whole thing in foil and place it in the oven to keep warm.

Take to your mates barbecue/party open the foil and have EVERYONE nag you for the recipe!!

Just tear off bits of bread and dip into the cheese mix!

To make a veggie option - leave out the bacon. To go vegan - use toffuti - one plain tub and one garlic and herb is pretty fab – although you might have to thin it with a bit of soya milk!

Homemade Butter This is a genuine....l "I'm a Mother Earth, kitchen goddess" type recipe.

(Although to be honest it's not really a recipe because there's no cooking involved) Forget all about wooden churns or shaking plastic milk bottles for hours on end, this is a feel- good factor the modern convenience way!

Firstly take a pot of cream, single, double, whipping or extra thick, doesn't matter which, and allow it to come to room temperature. If the cream is a few days old, so much the better. (In other words, this is a brilliant to use up any left – over cream).

Pour into your food processor and blitz on high. Do this until the cream "splits" - you'll know this when you see it; suddenly the "cream" separates into yellow blobs and a watery liquid.

Blitz about 30 seconds longer then pour the liquid into a jug...This is buttermilk and it makes the best scones!

Squeeze the yellow bits together getting as much of the buttermilk out as you can whilst running under a cold tap.

The big lump of yellow you have left is the butter.

Add a teaspoon of salt if you like....This is optional!!

Other options include crushing up a clove or two of garlic and mixing it in, or adding some of your favourite herbs.

Pat into a nice shape and ‘Bob’s your Mothers Brother!’

You can freeze it too!

If you can find cream ‘price reduced’ (they had LOADS at Christmas) so much the better.

A 568ml pot makes 340g of butter which (depending on the cost of the cream) generally makes it cheaper than Anchor!!!

DIARY OF THE HEDGEWITCH manifestations come into being from infinite potential.

On the cusp of early spring after a mild winter, temperatures suddenly fell, a cold wind swept and raged, and a white frost spread itself over the freezing earth; water transformed into soft blanketing snow and ice, revealing beautiful geometric structures that abound within all life, as the sudden bitter breaths of winter clung to the fresh emergence of spring. Buds swell to burst forth into being with their precious young delicate new leaves, brimming with new manifestations and heaving with the potential of realisation within many arrays of expression; forms that, once realised, metamorphosise to another in a continual state of becoming. Spring flowers, clasped tightly to the earth, rapidly explode into colour, urged onwards by warmth or lengthening days. Awakenings of sensations within began to emerge along with the gentle unfurling of leaves; a breathing out into a world stretching into expansion from its autumn/winter contraction, into light and expectancy; newly-born, pulsating with the yearning for experience in this new cycle of coming into being afresh. The triumphant arrival of early spring, I find, is the most intense moment of all the seasons. The fresh scent borne on the dewy dawn that is somehow beyond scent, and light that is not only light in brightness but also in weight, and, in a way, in meaning too; bringing promises that seem to stir the longing of the soul.

Nature explodes into creative energy, courting rituals begin, fertility streams, life suddenly surges forth, ceaseless and wondrous in all its many forms as it rages incessantly onwards. Passion is ignited within the world, to reach its climax when, later in the year, summer will lay beneath a retreating sun, bearing fruits from this ever-creative force. Seeds that lay silently within the earth begin to germinate as chaos is assumed from which new creations and

The forming of seed from parent plants marks not only the culmination of a cycle, but also the beginning, seeds that have been formed are now vibrating with all possible future realisations; each seed containing the imprint of the experiences of its parent, and each one having the potential for the process of becoming a plant...to fulfil its life-cycle and set forth its own precious seeds ensuring the endless cycle of further generations that are forever evolving. Whilst sowing a seed I enjoy contemplating, as much as my limited mind can, on the processes involved that have brought it to its current manifestation; how evolution, the physical world and the worlds beyond, along with the action of the near and distant cosmos, as it weaves, moulds and finely sculpts...Influences and inspires; tracing back while looking onwards towards future manifestations; the shade of the oak ever present within the acorn...Time stands still as the past and present and future are all crammed within the tiniest of seeds.

As the new germinations begin to emerge, pushing their way up towards light, root penetrating downwards with the gravitational tug of the earth seemingly following an all-pervading pattern; what we see as a beginning is continuity. The fragile little seedling that is now coming forth, striving into manifestation with all its might, has always been and always is. Just as the dark bitter depths of winter

reside in the fresh surging life of spring, so too does it reside within the bright dry hot months of summer and the damp decay of autumn, death and birth within each other; a continuous process of change...Of life!...Of cycles and rhythms that flow beyond linear sequences.

For the gardener this is the start of the busiest activity after the brief winter hibernation. The pruning and the cutting back of herbaceous plants should have been accomplished by the end of February, ready for the flood of sap that will flow as trees again surge with activity, and energies are drawn upwards, as ours are drawn outwards; as we dance to the same tune in an expanding air filled with the shrill voices of spring birdsong. The grafting of trees and shrubs, uniting two varieties together, is undertaken in March and April in tune with the surging of the sap. Compost and manure applied in the autumn/winter lies waiting, in wholesome nutritiment, for plantings from the sowings of tiny seeds. The process of seed sowing, pricking out, potting up and planting out has began, a chain of activity that follows the plant through the various stages; from the first stirrings of chaos as the seed begins to germinate, right up to harvesting for crops; but for some this process will continue through until the seeds form and ripen upon the mature plant, seeing the cycle through all the way into the next that is contained within each moment.

Each spring, around the time of the spring equinox and when the moon is in an Earth constellation (this March it would be the 17th/18th when the moon is in Capricorn), I apply the biodynamic preparation 500, horn manure, to the garden to enliven the soil and all the life that resides within it, working with the forces of the earth and of the cosmos.

It is the holistic bringing together of these forces that led to the development of the biodynamic preparations, acting on influences from the Cosmos down to the centre of the Earth. The horn manure preparation (preparation 500), relates the horn of a cow to the outside world around her and to the inner digestive system within her stomachs, (cow’s hornsare used rather than bull’s horns due to their different shapes and the animal’s different temperaments). It is said that the horns contain the cosmic forces and reflect the digestive forces back into the digestive system. Manure is part of this process (as well as containing a high amount of nitrogen, needed for plant growth).

Cow horns filled with cow manure are buried in the autumn. This is because the cow feeds on the fresh new vegetation in the spring and as the year unfolds and the plants form seed, their life cycles become realised as they mature. This ripening and completion of a cycle, is brought into the cow dung. It is also at this time of the year when the Earth begins to ‘breathe in’ or contract, bringing these forces downwards.

The horn manure is dug up and then applied to the land in the beginning of its “breathing-out” or expansion in the spring, in the afternoon when plant sap is being drawn downwards. The dung is removed from its horn and is added to tepid water (preferably rainwater) in small quantities, and stirred for an hour prior to applying, stirring in one direction until a vortex is created, then changing direction to break the vortex. In the moment of chaos as the vortex is being broken, it is understood that the Cosmos is drawn down into the liquid to apply its influences there. Our consciousness is also bought into the liquid as we stir.

The moment the vortex is broken, tension is released, the rhythm also connecting us to the whole process.

In the uncoiling momentum of spring, energies, I feel, are frantically stirred afresh into a spiralling vortex; from this dizzying motion and chaos life propels itself passionately towards all possibilities that have forever been; forever held within the germ that awaited fertilisation. We unfurl with the thrusting shoots of spring, hurling ourselves forth to ripen into summer on our way to realisation; ever fertilising the germs of past and future that lay together in the present.

March 2012 Sowing Calendar Date Constellation of Moon Thurs 01 Taurus (Earth) Fri 02

Crops to sow

Other information

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Highest moon 17.00 Moonrise 10.10 Moon trine Saturn 13.00 Moonrise 11.10 Moon opposition Pluto 9.00 Moon trine Sun 17.00 Sun opposition Mars 20.00 Moonrise 12.10

Sat 03

Taurus (Earth) until 14.00 then Gemini (Air) Gemini (Air)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish late summer cauliflower late summer cauliflower

Sun 04

Gemini (Air) until 18.00

late summer cauliflower

Venus opposition Saturn 11.00 Moonrise 13.20

Mon 05

Cancer (Water)

Asparagus, summer cabbage, celeriac and celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Mercury conjunction Uranus 12.00

Leo (Fire) from 7.00

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Moonrise 15.50

Leo (Fire)

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Moon opposition Neptune 6.00 Moon trine Venus 7.00 Moonrise 17.10

Thurs 08

Leo (Fire) until 18.00

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Fri 09

Virgo (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Sat 10

Virgo (Earth)

Full Moon 10.00 Moon conjunction Mars 23.00 Moonrise 18.30 Moon opposition Uranus 11.00 Moon opposition Mercury 15.00 Moonset 6.20 Perigee 10.00 so no sowing/planting Moonset 6.50

Sun 11

Virgo (Earth) until 21.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Moon conjunction Saturn 03.00 Moon opposition Venus 17.00 Moon opposition Jupiter 20.00 Moonset 07.10

Mon 12

Libra (Air)

late summer cauliflower

Moon trine Sun 18.30 Moonset 07.50

Tues 13

Scorpio (Water) from 02.00

Asparagus, summer cabbage, celeriac and celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Jupiter trinbe Pluto 05.00

Asparagus, summer cabbage, celeriac and celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Venus trine Pluto 01.00

Mars trine Pluto 0.00 3rd quarter 01.00 Moonset 10.30 Moon conjunction Pluto 03.00 Moon trine Venus 07.10

Tues 06 Wed 07

Wed 14

Scorpio (Water)

Thurs 15

Sagittarius (Fire) from 07.00

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Fri 16

Sagittarius (Fire)

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Moonrise 14.30

North (ascending) node 21.00 Moonset 08.30

Venus conjunction Jupiter 06.00 Venus trine Mars 07.00 Mars trine Jupiter 10.00 Lowest Moon 15.00 Moonset 09.20

Moonset 11.30

Sat 17

Sagittarius (Fire) until 13.00

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Moonset 12.50

then Capricorn (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Sun 18

Capricorn (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Mon 19

Capricorn (Earth) until 17.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Moon trine Saturn 20.30

then Aquarius (Air)

late summer cauliflower

Moonset 15.10

Aquarius (Air)

late summer cauliflower

Moon conjunction Neptune 03.00 Moon opposition Mars 14.00 Moonset 16.20

Aquarius (Air) until 17.00 then Pisces (Water)

late summer cauliflower Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Sun conjunction Mercury 19.00 Moonset 17.30

Pisces (Water)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Moon conjunction Mercury 12.00

Mercury conjunction Uranus 17.00 Moonset 13.50

Tues 20

Wed 21

Thurs 22

Fri 23

Pisces (Water)

Sat 24

Pisces (Water) until 20.00

Sun 25

Aries (Fire)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kohl rabi, leek, salad greens (under cover), spinach Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Dark Moon 15.00 Moon conjunction Uranus 19.00 Moonrise 05.20 Moonrise 05.40

Moon opposition Saturn 17.00 Sun conjunction Uranus 18.00 Moonrise 06.00 Moon conjunction Jupiter 22.00 Moonrise 06.30

Mon 26

Tues 27 Wed 28

Aries (Fire) until 21.00

Aubergine, Broad bean, peas, peppers, tomato

Apogee 06.00 Moon conjunction Venus 19.00 Moonrise 07.00

Taurus (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Moonrise 07.30

Taurus (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

South (descending) node 0.00 so no sowing/planting Moonrise 08.10

Thurs 29

Taurus (Earth) until 22.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, radish

Fri 30

Gemini (Air)

late summer cauliflower

Highest moon 01.00 Moon trine Saturn 18.00 Moonrise 09.00 Moon opposition Pluto 19.00 1st quarter 20.00

Moonrise 09.50

Sat 31

Gemini (Air)

late summer cauliflower

Moonrise 11.00

Sowing chart April 2012

Date Sun 01

Constellation of Moon

Crops to sow/plant

Other information

Cancer (Water)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery

Moonrise 12.10

(in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach Mon 02

Cancer (Water) until 18.00

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Moon trine Sun 08.00 Moonrise 13.20

Tues 03

Leo (Fire)

Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers, peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moon opposition Neptune 18.00 Moon conjunction Mars 21.00 Moonrise 14.40

Wed 04

Leo (Fire)

Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers, peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moonrise 16.00

Thurs 05

Virgo (Earth) from 05.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Fri 06

Virgo (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Sat 07

Virgo (Earth)

Moon opposition Mercury 06.00 Moon trine Venus 19.00 Moonrise 17.20 Moon opposition Uranus 0.00 Full Moon 19.00 Moonrise 18.50 Moon conjunction Saturn 10.00 Perigee 17.00 so no sowing Moonset 05.10

Sun 08

Libra (Air) from 06.00

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers

Moon opposition Jupiter 15.00 Moonset 05.50

Libra (Air) until 11.00 then Scorpio (water)

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Moonset 06.30

Scorpio (Water)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

North (ascending) node 01.00

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers,

Moonset 08.10

Mon 09

Tues 10

Wed 11

Scorpio (Water) until 14.00

then Sagittarius (Fire)

Moon conjunction Pluto 10.00 Lowest Moon 22.00 Moonset 07.20

peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse) Thurs 12

Sagittarius (Fire)

Fri 13

Sagittarius (Fire) until 19.00

Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers, peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moon conjunction Pluto 10.00 Moonset 09.30

Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers,

3rd quarter 11.00

peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moonset 10.40

Sat 14

Capricorn (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Moon trine Venus 15.00

Moonset 11.50 Sun 15

Capricorn (Earth) until 22.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Sun opposition Saturn 18.00 Moon trine Saturn 22.00 Moonset 13.00

Mon 16

Aquarius (Air)

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers

Moon conjunction Neptune 10.00 Moon opposition Mars 13.00 Moonset 14.10

Aquarius (Air) until 23.00

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers

Moonset 15.20

Pisces (Water)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Moon conjunction Mercury 19.00

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers,

Moon conjunction Uranus 04.00

Tues 17 Wed 18

Thurs 19

Fri 20

Pisces (Water)

Pisces (Water)

Moonset 16.30

Moonset 17.30 Moon opposition Saturn 20.00 Moonset 18.40 Dark Moon 07.00

Sat 21

Aries (Fire) from 03.00

Sun 22

Aries (Fire)

peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse) Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers, peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moonrise 04.30 Apogee 14.00 Moon conjunction Jupiter 17.00 Mercury conjunction Uranus 20.00 Moonrise 05.00

Taurus (Earth) from 03.00

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Moonrise 05.30

Taurus (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Sun trine Mars 0.00 South (descending) node 04.00 Moonrise 06.10

Mon 23 Tues 24

after 07.00 Wed 25

Taurus (Earth)

Beetroot, carrot, onion, parsnip, potato, radish, turnip

Moon conjunction Venus 04.00 Highest Moon 06.00 Moon trine Saturn 20.00 Moonrise 06.50

Thurs 26 Fri 27

Gemini (Air) from 04.00 Gemini (Air)

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers

Gemini (Air) until 11.00 then Cancer (Water)

Broccoli, cauliflower, flowers Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Moonrise 07.50 Moon opposition Pluto 01.00 Moonrise 08.50 Moonrise 09.50

Cancer (Water)

Asparagus, brussel sprouts, cabbage, celeriac & celery (in heated greenhouse), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leek, parsley, salad greens (under cover), spinach

Sun trine Pluto 09.00

Aubergine, Broad and french bean, peas; cucumbers, peppers, tomato & sweetcorn (in heated greenhouse)

Moonrise 12.20

Sat 28

Sun 29

Mon 30

Leo (Fire) from 02.00

1st quarter 10.00 Moonrise 11.00

the dates in bold type indicate the dates for transplanting, this is when the moon is descending. (this would be reversed in the soutern hemisphere).

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DONATIONS REQUIRED Needed for kiosk...Donations of the following...

Microwave Frying pans Large stew pots/saucepans Kitchen utensils/knives Kitchen rubbish bin with lid/pedal bin Microwaveable containers Email: dinimarie@hotmail.co.uk

Needed for sweat lodge ...Donations of the following...

Wool blankets Furs Hides Sheepskin |Email: ratty440@hotmail.com

WANTED Chenoa is in need of up to 17 reasonably priced straight wooden poles about 23ft in length suitable for a large tipi.

Also she is looking for a reasonably priced second hand Yert (approx 16ft).

Email: ratty440@hotmail.com Further information about courses, ‘up and coming’ events and ceremonies held by The Dolmen Grove (this includes membership enquiries) is available at:-

www.dolmengrove.co.uk Email:

dolmengrove@dolmengrove.co.uk

Or through our facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen-Grove/110124449082503

Further information about music from The Dolmen including c.d. purchase is available from the Website:-

www.thedolmen.com Email UK thedolmen@thedolmen.com Email USA thedolmenusa@thedolmen.com Or through the facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen/250111806234