James Callow Folklore Archive
Dr. James T. Callow publications
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The James T. Callow Folklore Archive
IN IRELAND, IF SOME PERSON (PERHAPS A GYPSY)
COMES TO THE HOME OF AN IRISH FAMILY TO SELL HIS
WARES, THE MOTHER IN THE FAMILY WOULD IMMEDIATELY
PLACE A PAIR OF TONGS FROM THE FIREPLACE OVER THE
CRADLE OF HER INFANT CHILD TO PREVENT A CURSE OR
BAD OMEN ON THE CHILD. TO INSURE GOOD LUCK AND TO
INSURE PROTECTION FROM ANY EVIL OMENS, THE MOTHER
WOULD ALSO NEVER SEND THE SALESMAN AWAY WITHOUT
BUYING SOMETHING.
Where learned: MICHIGAN ; EAST DETROIT
| Subject headings: | BELIEF -- Street Trip Relations between relatives, friends, host and guest Social class Rank BELIEF -- Work Commerce Business BELIEF -- Birth BELIEF -- Curse |
Date learned: 11-03-1969