The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

A BIRD IN THE HOUSE MEANS DEATH.

ONE DAY IN 1957, MRS. KELLY CALLED ME AT WORK AND
INSISTED THAT I COME TO HER HOME IMMEDIATELY,
BECAUSE THERE WAS A BIRD IN HER BASEMENT. THERE
WAS NO DOOR TO THE BASEMENT AND WHEN I ARRIVED,
SHE WAS GUARDING THE STAIRWAY WITH A BROOM. SHE
EXPLAINED THAT IF THE BIRD HAD ESCAPED INTO THE
HOUSE, A FRIEND OR RELATIVE WOULD DIE IN THE NEAR
FUTURE. I BELIEVE THAT THE SUPERSTITION
APPLIES TO WILD BIRDS ONLY, BUT I AM NOT SURE.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 00-00-1957