Scottish Halloween Customs

"To get the real zest of this merrymaking it must be held in the countryside. The old Scottish rites and superstitions on Hallowe'en are the best known the world over because a great poet rose from the ranks of the Scotch peasantry who has immortalized their beliefs, customs and manners." 

On Hallowe'en – "The passion of prying into futurity," said Robert Burns, "makes a striking part of the history of human nature in its rude stage in all ages and nations." Even in our twentieth century civilization with its growing skepticism there remains enough of this passion to give piquancy to "trying fortunes" on Hallowe'en; and no other entertainment can bring quite so enjoyable a thrill to the young folks as an old-fashioned Hallowe'en party where — 

"Wi merry sangs and friendly cracks, I wat, they didna weary; And unco tales and funny jokes, Their sports were cheap and cheery." 

To get the real zest of this merrymaking it must be held in the countryside. The old Scottish rites and superstitions on Hallowe'en are the best known the world over because a great poet rose from the ranks of the Scotch peasantry who has immortalized their beliefs, customs and manners. In York State during the first part of this century, a youth or maiden goes alone to a clear spring where the stars are reflected and dipping the right hand into the water earnestly desires a glimpse of the future wife or husband; when, if there is to be any, the features of said party will be seen in the water beneath the person's shadow. 

There was also a difference in the looking-glass charm. The person trying this goes down the cellar steps backward with a looking-glass in one hand and a lighted candle in the other and with his or her eyes fixed intently upon the surface of the mirror, where the shadowy outlines of the desired face will be seen as though looking over the person's shoulder; unless the party is doomed to celibacy. 

Another charm popular with the Hallowe'en parties in York State at that time was roasting eggs in the ashes of the open fire, one for each unmarried person present. Just before the party broke up, the yolks were removed from the hard-cooked eggs and the cavity filled with salt when the salted egg was eaten shell and all and not a drop of water or other liquid taken afterward. In the night the person becomes exceeding thirsty and the future matrimonial partner comes in his or her dreams bringing a cup of water.

An old Scottish superstition which we commend to boys who find pleasure in taking off gates, changing signs, and other annoying and rude tricks, is to go three times around the town or the farm buildings astride a broomstick. The third time, according to the superstition, they will see the devil. – M. R. J., Pacific Rural Press 31 October 1908

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