Across our country, we have some rather interesting superstitions—and the South is no different. Yes, it may be strange that people still hold onto these old beliefs during an era of smartphones & smart homes. But they’ve passed these superstitions down through generations and they’re part of the great Southern storytelling traditions! Here are some of the most enduring Southern beliefs.
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Blue Porch Ceilings
You might’ve noticed that many Southern porches are painted a calming shade of blue, although it’s not just for looks. This tradition comes from the belief that the color blue keeps away “haints” or spirits. Some believe it tricks spirits into thinking it’s the sky so they can’t cross over. As such, the next time you’re sipping tea on a blue-painted porch, remember that prettiness is protection!
Black-Eyed Peas on New Year’s Day
Eating black-eyed peas on the first day of the New Year is supposed to bring you good fortune. Some people say the peas are like little coins and the more you eat, the richer you’ll be—both in terms of luck & money. As such, anyone looking to boost their fortunes should load up their plate when January rolls around!
Crossing Silverware
Accidentally crossing your fork & knife is a big mistake in the South because it’s believed to be a sign that a fight’s coming. If you want to keep the peace, you should uncross those utensils—and quick. It’s one of those things that might make you laugh. But hey, why take the chance?
Sweeping Over Feet
Here’s another strange one. If someone sweeps over your feet with a broom, rumor has it you’re not getting hitched. Ever. That is unless, of course, you spit on the broom. While it might be a strange way to save your love life, we’re definitely not here to judge—so go ahead and spit away.
Opening an Umbrella Indoors
We’ve all heard the superstition about opening an umbrella indoors but in the South, it’s serious business. Opening an umbrella inside means that you’re asking for bad luck. Why? Because it’s supposed to offend the spirits that live with you — so unless you want to make your ghostly roommates mad, maybe wait until you’re outside.
Itchy Palms
Any time you have an itch in your palm, it actually means something in the South. If your right palm itches, that means you should get ready for some money coming your way. But if it’s the left, you might want to tighten those purse strings. Who would’ve known you could guess your financial future from your palms?
Whistling at Night
Whistling after dark or indoors is a big mistake here because many people believe it’ll invite bad luck into your home—or worse, evil spirits. Unless you’re a night owl who likes a tune, you should probably keep it to yourself. No need to stir up any trouble with the unseen or those who are sleeping.
Birds Flying Into Windows
We can agree that a bird hitting your window is quite startling and down here, many people see it as a sign. For some, it means a big change while others believe it means a death is on the way. It’s a spooky thought! Even if you don’t believe these superstitions, you should keep those curtains drawn to keep the birds alive.
Placing Shoes on the Table
You’re asking for trouble if you throw your sneakers on the table in the South, although not simply because it’s unhygienic. No, it’s supposed to signal death. It comes from the days when people would place miners’ shoes on a table after a fatal accident. As such, you should keep your shoes on the floor as a sign of respect.
Breaking a Mirror
Lots of Southerners take the whole “seven years bad luck” rather seriously because they believe breaking a mirror will let out any trapped spirits. And that causes a heap of trouble! Any clumsy people out there should perhaps invest in some unbreakable mirrors just to be on the safe side.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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