These words have an air of mystery about them. Are they old Cornish or corrupt English? I leave that with you. They are certainly associated with activities on May Morning in Helston, as the excellent article by Andy Norfolk ‘The Folklore of the Hal an Tow’ (May 2022) explains. One quote he made stood out…Continue Reading “Hal an Tow – A Padstow Perspective”
A powerful and deeply moving piece. It carries the full weight of Cornish identity, exile, and longing while painting vivid pictures of both the homeland and the distant mining lands. The structure is steady and song-like, very much in the style of a ballad, fitting for the story of the Cousin Jack. I’m Just…Continue Reading “I’m Just a Cousin Jack – a poem by R J Rowse”
By Jo Lewis & Tony Mansell This is not a history of the Baptist Church per se, nor is there any attempt to stray into doctrinal matters, it is simply a record of the chapels and of their place in the religious built environment. Perhaps though, it would be helpful to say that the…Continue Reading “Baptist Chapels of Chacewater and Truro”
A Cornish Dialect series by Tony Mansell The tea-treat is the biggest event on the village calendar, a grand affair when everyone gathers for a day of relaxation and fun. It’s always held in the same field, Tea-Treat Field. The grass is cut, bunting hung up and tables erected – for the stalls and…Continue Reading “Sidney Zacharius Penpraze – The Village Do”
William Quintrell (1861-1920) By Ernie Parsons This is the first in a short series of articles focusing on some 19th century Cornish poets from labouring-class backgrounds. Largely now forgotten, they are nevertheless an important part of Cornish culture, overcoming their limited education to write poetry about the events and feelings affecting most Cornish people of…Continue Reading “William Quintrell (1861-1920)”
My career with British Rail began in 1951, at the tender age of 15; in those days it was all steam, none of your diesel trade! It all began with an interview with the school Careers Officer when I expressed an interest in becoming a carpenter. Either he wasn’t listening or he had other ideas…Continue Reading “So Nearly an Engine Driver”