Cassandra and I hosted a Folk Magic workshop at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic as Simon Costin had suggested it. Cassandra’s book Village Witch is stocked within the Museum retail outlet, therefore a workshop provided readers with more information on the subject. They could interact and ask Cassandra any questions in person.
It was a glorious warm sunny day when we arrived. Simon had other commitments that day but Fergus was around if we needed assistance. It was good to catch up with Judith Noble who was overseeing the Artists Residency event that day.
We had 18 attendees, each were either on their own individual spiritual path or not actively practicing but curious about the Folk/Cunning Craft.
Cassandra has years of experience in her Craft and good rapport with her audience. She works from an outline of subjects so the talk is more spontaneous and interesting for her listeners.
Cassandra is ‘down to earth’ with humorous moments that keep the audience entertained. It also helps to lift the atmosphere when discussing more serious aspects of the Craft.
After two hours of discussion, we had a lunch break, enjoying the warm sunshine and sea air.
The group returned to the Museum after lunch and Cassandra guided them on a hedgerow walk near Minster Woodland to harvest wild greenery for their witch bottles. I remained in the library updating our business accounts and searching for the video Cassandra planned to show the group in the afternoon session.
On their return, the subject of spell casting and energy raising was discussed. The following video is an example of how working women used chants, while engaging in repetitive work. This helped with accurate timing of movements and also creates a bond between all workers. One member of our group made an interesting comment about the singing, as it would become apparent if a worker grew weary, meaning that they could either take a break or slow down.
The group then moved their chairs to form a large circle and we placed all ingredients for witch bottles into the centre of the space. They could help themselves to the ingredients that they required. I suggested that they began by holding their jar or bottle for a few minutes while connecting with the spirits and ancestors for assistance.
There were many conversations and also sharing of greenery as they all filled their receptacles. We explained that they would need to take them home to add a personal bodily fluid of their choice. When that is done they seal the jar or bottle by placing a real wax candle on the lid so the wax drips down over the seal. It can also be done by binding with twine before sealing with wax, or a modern method of adhesive tape (although we do not recommend the use of plastic.)
A few members of the group visited the Museum retail outlet and purchased Cassandra’s book Village Witch. They asked her to sign them.
When the workshop was complete and everything was returned to its place, I took another opportunity to sit upon the fabulous Gothic chair in the library. It once belonged to ‘Old Horny’ the goat God who now stands tall within the Museum.
We would like to thank the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic for inviting us to host this workshop and all who attended it for being such a wonderful supportive group. I’m sure we will be seeing you again.
Feedback:
“Had an absolute fantastic time at Cassandra and Laetitia Latham Jones’ Workshop at the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic today. Learned so much, had a lot of laughs and discussions – it was total ‘amazeballs’! They truly are amazing and inspirational. Thank you both for such an awesome day of magick! Blessed be. xx” E.G.
“It was a fun, interesting and informative day. Cassandra is as entertaining as she is knowledgeable. Thank you both” C.M.
Wonderfully informative with humour and what a fabulous turn out! Cant wait to attend another one” M.E.
“We attended this first workshop and it was amazing, great people and great vibes, thank you everyone see you again!” M.H.
“Wonderful inspiring day with you all. Thank you Cassandra and Laetitia.” K.H.
“What a Wonderful day with beautiful people. Can’t wait to go back to Boscastle to go walking in minster woods. Thank you Cass and Laetitia for a day of knowledge and learning. Xx” P.O.
“We had a wonderful day lovely people and a great feel here yesterday x”
“I really loved it and look forward to the next one. Xxx💜xxX” G.W.
“I loved every moment of and loved the walk to collect wild flowers.” S.H.
“Can’t wait for the next one! Thank you Cassandra and Laetitia. Many new things heard and learnt. It felt very special. I’m only beginning to feel my way around ” spirit” but excited for the journey. Hope to see you all again soon.” C.D.
At this event I guided Penkevyll and stood alongside her while the Wassail ceremonies took place. The meeting on the bridge is a little more energetic as Penkevyll accompanies the Maris to meet the approaching English from the opposite side at the centre of the bridge.
St Pirans festival in March invites Penkevyll and:
This year I also rode my Sea ‘Oss Morvargh during the afternoon accompanied by John and Sue Exton with their new Mari Seren. Dancing with Morvargh is also an ideal warm up for the Teazing of Penkevyll. Mole, the Squire of Wreckers Morris invited Morvargh to dance alongside his Morris band while they performed a dance about the sea. We worked well together and the audience enjoyed it immensely.
It was then time to return Morvargh to her stable and change into my Teazer kit. I prepared Penkevyll with the assistance of Cassandra and our rider. The procession led by the Maris made its way through Boscastle and the wonderful sound of throbbing drums signalled the appearance of Penkevyll.
During this performance I was observed by my new apprentice Teazer. Gem is in her 30s and has a good connection with Penkevyll. She also understands the Cornish energies and has an enquiring mind with welcome experience in the performing arts. I look forward to her progression.
This year I sang the Cornish Pwmco alone while Susan Exton sang the Welsh version. I had no time to drink water after the energetic Teazing and this affected my singing as my throat was rather dry. Susan and I thought the Pwmco went better than expected, particularly as she had little notice of this with Vivien’s sudden illness.
Laetitia Latham Jones 