The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

SCOTTISH-IRISH CUSTOM

THEY CALL THIS FIRST-FOOTING. IT IS A SCOTTISH CUSTOM ALSO FOUND
IN SCOTTISH INFLUENCE AREAS OF IRELAND.
YOUR HOME AND YOU WILL HAVE GOOD LUCK IF YOUR FIRST VISTOR IN THE
NEW YEAR IS A DARK HAIRED MAN, ESPECIALLY IF HE BRINGS YOU A PIECE
OF COAL.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; ANN ARBOR

Keyword(s): COAL ; GIFTGIVING

Subject headings:

CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- January 1 New Year's
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- Fixed DateFor specific dates, use the following system: F640.0101
CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- December 21 solstice to March 20
BELIEF -- Mineral
BELIEF -- Street Trip Relations between relatives, friends, host and guest Social class Rank
BELIEF -- Color
BELIEF -- Good luck P881.42

Date learned: 02-04-1968