Re: Circles under churches | Forum — The Modern Antiquarian

Alton Priors 2

Image by Chance

Circles under churches

more_vert

FourWinds May 10, 2005 08:02:32

Replying to PeterH

A much better way of looking at it! Nice one, but it doesn't explain why some of the older ones weren't cut for bows. Perhaps the fact that no one wanted a bow that could be possessed by the spirits of the dead had something to do with it, especially when you consider the belief that the roots of yews were thought to enter the mouths of the dead and so resurrect them.

PeterH May 10, 2005 08:13:00

Replying to FourWinds

Yes - I accept that the yew is very special and has attracted all manner of magic and legends. I love them and have compiled a photographic log of all the really ancient ones that I have found. Nice pic of the Alton Prior yew over on the Portal.

My only reason for pointing out an alternative reason for the survival of ancient churchyard yews is to say that one old yew doesn't prove a pagan site. I do accept that it is a possible indicator though - just not proof.

PS - anyone had a good look at the sarsen quoins of Alton Barns just next door? Saxon long and short work, but out of all proportion - massive. Re-used and dressed?