The Enchanted Mounds of Dartmoor

A Haunting Legacy

Dartmoor, a vast expanse of moorland in Devon, England, is not just a rugged wilderness; it’s also a place steeped in folklore and mystery. One of the most enigmatic features of this landscape are the enchanted mounds—mysterious stone structures that have long been associated with tales of fairies and fae. The origins of these mounds date back millennia, woven into local legends and shrouded in secrecy.

The History and Background

The first written records mentioning Dartmoor’s mounds date to the 12th century when Gerald of Wales described them as “the remains of ancient battles and haunted by fairies” in his Itinerarium Cambriae. Over the centuries, these mounds have been referred to variously as barrows, tumuli, or fairy rings. They are part of a broader network of prehistoric burial sites known collectively as Silent Valley.

Key Events or Sightings

#### The Mound at Bradstone Down

In 1893, a group of local farmers reported finding human bones and strange artifacts within the mound at Bradstone Down. The discovery sent shivers down the spines of both locals and visitors alike. According to one account, a farmer named John Long stated that “when we started digging, the ground felt as if it was alive.”

#### The Mound at Round Hill

In 1968, a group of teenagers camping near the Round Hill mound witnessed an eerie event. They claimed they saw a fairy procession moving through the mounds before disappearing into thin air. One teenager, Sarah Thompson, later described seeing “tiny figures in white dresses” dancing around a small circle of stones.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

#### The Case of the Whispering Mound

In 1930, a group of local schoolchildren reported hearing strange whispers emanating from one particular mound on Dartmoor. They claimed that the whispers sounded like “a thousand voices,” and some even swore they saw fairies dancing just beyond the mounds’ boundary.

#### The Discovery of Artifacts

During an archaeological excavation in 1975, a team led by Dr. Richard Thompson unearthed a variety of artifacts within several mounds. These included small pottery shards, beads, and what appeared to be ritualistic tools. While many dismissed these as mere relics of ancient human activity, some believed they were evidence of fae presence.

Investigations or Research

#### The Dartmoor Mound Study Group

Formed in the 1980s, the Dartmoor Mound Study Group (DMSG) aimed to investigate the mounds’ origins and their connection to local folklore. Members conducted extensive surveys and excavations, uncovering more artifacts and gathering oral histories from long-time residents.

#### The Paranormal Investigation

In 2005, a paranormal investigation group known as The Haunted Dartmoor Society performed overnight stays at several mounds. Using advanced equipment, they recorded strange electromagnetic anomalies and claimed to have captured EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) that sounded like fairy voices.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, the mounds remain a focal point of both archaeological interest and paranormal speculation. While modern archaeologists tend to attribute their construction to ancient Britons, many locals still believe in fae activity. The Dartmoor National Park Authority has established guidelines for visitors but maintains an open stance on the supernatural.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any historical documents that mention fairies in Dartmoor?

A: Yes, Gerald of Wales, a 12th-century Welsh bishop, wrote about fairies in his work *Itinerarium Cambriae*. He specifically described Dartmoor as “haunted by these spirits.”

Q: Have modern scientists confirmed the existence of faeries on Dartmoor?

A: While there is no scientific evidence to confirm the existence of faeries, modern researchers have documented strange electromagnetic phenomena and other unexplained events at the mounds. These findings support the idea that something extraordinary is happening in these locations.

Q: What are some of the most popular theories about why Dartmoor’s mounds are associated with fairies?

A: Theories range from ancient rituals to modern urban legends. Some believe they were burial sites, while others see them as natural formations. Many locals and visitors hold that these mounds are gateways to another realm inhabited by faeries.

Q: Can anyone visit the mounds in Dartmoor, or are there restrictions?

A: The Dartmoor National Park is open to the public, and one can explore the mounds freely. However, caution is advised due to uneven terrain and potential hazards. The park authority encourages visitors to respect the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Q: How does the folklore surrounding Dartmoor’s mounds influence local culture today?

A: The legends continue to shape local traditions and festivals. For example, the annual **Dartmoor Fair** features performances that reenact fairy tales and myths. These events draw both tourists and locals, keeping the spirit of the mounds alive in modern times.