Folk-Lore of Hertfordshire

 

Hitchin

HALS

 

Ware

HALS

A selection of ancient beliefs, charms, customs and proverbs and sayings from around Hertfordshire, extracted from “The Folk-Lore of Hertfordshire” W.B. Gerish.

Beliefs

Bell-rope breaking: If rung after wedding, ill-omen for the couple.

Hare forecasting fire: Hare venturing into town or village said to forecast fire.

CHARMS

Ridge-Tiles (Hitchin): In shape of horses, on gable ends, believed to protect buildings from evil spirits.

King’s-Evil Cure (Offley): Youth cured by religious obervances.

CUSTOMS

Hot-Cross buns: Believed to be connected with the worship of of goddess Diana, at Royston.

Swearing on the Horns: Jocular custom at inns in Hoddesdon and Ware, to secure fanciful privileges

PROVERBS and SAYINGS

Hertfordshire Hedgehogs: Natives so-called because they are reputed to be bad neighbours.

Side pocket for a toad: Alluding to the uselessness of anything.

This publication and many more charting the history of Hertfordshire can be found in the Local Studies Library at Hertfordshire Archives