Curses Beyond the Grave: Protecting Roman Tombs from Robbers (part 3)

 By Liisa Eyerly

Greeks and Romans accepted the existence of the soul after death. They believed the dead entered Hades by crossing the river Styx in a boat. The ancients regarded the underworld as a permanent state of murky darkness devoid of joy or conscious will. The afterlife was viewed by most as meaningless, where the dead flitted around without substance or purpose.

Crossing the Styx, illustration by Gustave Dore, 1861. Wikipedia.org

The philosopher Plato believed that the sons of Zeus judged souls branded with the scars of perjuries and crimes. The godless suffered eternal punishment in Tartarus, and the righteous dead were sent to the Isles of the Blessed. However, the gods restricted the Isles to heroes and the godly who achieved great deeds.

File:Goethe Elysium crop.jpg, Wikimedia.org

A competing view was Christianity, which offered hope to all and a belief that death and demons had no dominion over them. When their God, Christ, conquered death after being crucified, buried, and rising from the dead, Christian heroes and commoners alike believed they inherited Jesus’s resurrection. Two thousand years later, they still profess, “I die with Christ and rise with Christ to live eternally with Him.”

There are conflicting accounts about whether pagans believed the dead could contact the living and visa-versa. Food was left at gravesites once a year, hinting at the dead returning to see if their relatives honored the deceased’s memory. What was agreed upon was the serious problem if you didn’t cross the river Styx—you would remain a wandering spirit or ghost, and not a happy one.

People believed these malevolent spirits, including murder victims and those who died young, had more power to intervene with the gods to cause harm. Their ghosts were invoked to carry curses inscribed on tablets to the underworld. The tablets asked for help from particular deities to get revenge on someone, promising offerings at their temple in return. 

The following curse tablets depict a deity with serpents for hair, possibly the Greek goddess Hecate.

ilfattostorico, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Platonist Apuleius took the existence of daemons for granted. “They populate the air and seem to be formed of air. They experience emotions like humans, and despite this, their minds are rational.”

Plutarch, an earlier Platonist philosopher who died in 119 AD/CE, accepted that daemons existed, served as agents between the gods and humans, and were responsible for many supernatural events including bad fortune. “Some daemons are good, some are evil, but even the good ones can do harmful acts in moments of anger.”

Anyone could hire a professional magician to inscribe a curse on wood, pottery, or metal. Lead was a favorite, but you would inscribe your curse on gold or silver foil for the best chance to persuade the gods to support your cause.

To make the curse extra effective, people would break into tombs and grave sites to place their curse next to a murder victim’s corpse or ashes.

Stefan Kühn, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

Although Christianity condemned these curses and exhorted believers to offer forgiveness, curses from pagans, Jews, and Christians alike have been found on graves throughout the Roman Empire. Curses found on stones above tombs in the catacombs were inscribed to protect the dead. These curses were written in red ochre, a universal warning color, and were sometimes accompanied by diagrams for illiterate grave robbers.

Grave robbing was a significant issue in ancient Rome. Gifts buried with the deceased—such as clothing, jewelry, or favorite household items—were often targets. Even urns containing ashes weren’t safe from theft. Without a police force, fear of arrest was not a significant deterrent. Instead, fear of the deceased’s ghost haunting the thief or experiencing a lingering, painful death served as a more potent threat.

One curse warns: “Anyone who shall open this burial will suffer an evil end.” Another, found at an ancient grave in Beit She’arim, reads: “Jacob the Proselyte vows to curse anybody who would open this grave, so nobody will open it,” as translated by Jonathan Price, a professor of ancient history at Tel Aviv University.

Hecate's previous curse deciphered reads. “Destroy, annihilate, kill, strangle Porcello and his wife Maurilla. Their soul, heart, buttocks, liver…” and shows a mummified Porcello, arms folded (like the deity) and his name written on both arms.

ilfattostorico, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In my books Obedient Unto Death and Fortunes of Death, the pagan father of Sabina, my Christian sleuth, is bound by a deathbed promise to his wife to allow Sabina to worship Christ. Fear of breaking this promise and being haunted by his wife's ghost was real in a world where superstition and magic permeated every aspect of life.

Bibliography

Magic of ancient Romans « IMPERIUM ROMANUM
Brenk, E. (1977). In Mist Apparelled: Religious Themes in Plutarch’s “Moralia” and “Lives”. Leiden: E.J. Brill. p. 59. ISBN9789004052413.
Tatum, J. (1979). Apuleius and the Golden Ass. Ithaca, New York: Cornell University Press. pp. 28–29.
Mystakidou, Kyriaki; Eleni Tsilika; Efi Parpa; Emmanuel Katsouda; Lambros Vlahos (1 December 2004). “Death and Grief in the Greek Culture”. OMEGA: Journal of Death and Dying. 50 (1): 24. doi:10.2190/YYAU-R4MN-AKKM-T496. S2CID144183546. Retrieved 23 June 2022.
11 of the Most Infamous Ancient Curses in History – Oldest.org
7 Ancient Roman Curses You Can Work into Modern Life | Mental Floss
Ancient Roman Curses Translated – The Language Blog by K International (k-international.com)
Benko, Stephen. Pagan Rome and the Early Christians. Indiana Univ. Press, 1986.
Stern, K. B. (2020). Writing on the wall: Graffiti and the forgotten jews of antiquity. Princeton University Press.
Disturbing Red Painted Curse Discovered In Jerusalem Catacomb | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)
The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity – Wikipedia
Magic in the Greco-Roman world – Wikipedia
Ancient Spells and Charms for the Hapless in Love | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)

In the bustling streets of ancient Ephesus, fortunes can change in an instant. When one of the city’s wealthiest citizens is found crushed beneath his own triumphant memorial, the powerful elite demand justice—but at what cost? Enigmatic investigator Sabina faces her most perilous case yet. As secrets unravel and enemies close in, she must navigate political intrigue, dark sorcery, and forbidden love to uncover the truth. In a city where everyone has something to hide, who can be trusted? And how far will Sabina go to solve a mystery that could cost her everything?

Liisa Eyerly’s Secrets of Ephesus series adds a Christian twist to first-century Roman Empire mysteries. Her debut novel, Obedient Unto Death (2022), won the Eric Hoffer First Horizon Award and first place in Spiritual Fiction. The second book, Fortunes of Death, just launched. A lifelong mystery lover, Liisa was inspired by the Apostle Paul’s depiction of early Christians. After careers in teaching, librarianship, and stained glass, she began writing full-time at fifty. Liisa lives in northern Wisconsin with her husband and enjoys pickleball, Bible study, and visiting Ancient Roman sites.

Liisa's books can be purchased at CrossRiverMedia.com 

at https://www.crossrivermedia.com/product/fortunes-of-death/

Her Amazon book page https://amzn.to/4cs2bok

visit Liisa at her website www.LiisaEyerly.com 

Author Facebook page at Liisa Eyerly Author page

A Wild West Christmas: Celebrating the Season on the Frontier

The Wild West is often romanticized in tales of cowboys, outlaws, and dusty towns, but during the Christmas season, it became a time of warmth, community, and celebration. Picture a small frontier town in the late 1800s, where the air is crisp and filled with the scent of pine and smoke from wood-burning stoves. Let’s take a closer look at how Christmas was celebrated in the Wild West, blending tradition with the rugged realities of frontier life.

Setting the Scene

As December rolled in, the townspeople would begin to feel the holiday spirit. Although many were far from the comforts of their Eastern counterparts, they made do with what they had, drawing on the strength of their communities. Towns like Dodge City, Tombstone, and Deadwood transformed into festive hubs, adorned with makeshift decorations crafted from whatever was available.

Decorating the Town

With no stores like we have today, the people of the Wild West had to get creative. Families would often head into the nearby woods to find a small tree or some evergreen branches. These would be trimmed and decorated with homemade ornaments. Corn husks, strings of popcorn, and bits of colored cloth became popular choices. In more prosperous homes, you might even find hand-painted wooden toys hanging on branches.

The community would come together to decorate the local church or meeting hall, where holiday festivities were often centered. Brightly colored paper chains made from old newspapers and ribbons would hang from the rafters, creating a festive atmosphere that lifted spirits during the long winter months.

Preparing for the Feast

Food was an essential part of any holiday celebration, and Christmas was no exception. While the menu varied depending on the resources available, many families aimed to prepare a hearty meal. Women spent days before the holiday baking pies, bread, and cookies. Gingerbread was a favorite, often shaped into stars or decorated with colorful icing.

Meats, when available, were often smoked or cured, and the community would come together to share whatever they had. A typical feast might include roasted turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. There was always a big pot of stew simmering, made from whatever game could be hunted or livestock raised.

The Importance of Community

In the spirit of togetherness, neighbors would often gather to help each other prepare. It was a time for camaraderie and connection. The holiday season offered a break from the hardships of frontier life, allowing families to come together to share meals, stories, and laughter.

Children, especially, looked forward to this time of year. They would help with preparations, their excitement palpable as they imagined the presents that might await them. Gifts were often handmade: a new pair of mittens, a carved wooden toy, or a jar of homemade preserves. These gifts, though simple, were treasured because they were made with love.

Christmas Eve Traditions

On Christmas Eve, townspeople would gather for church services, filling the pews with laughter and song. Caroling was common, and hymns would echo through the wooden structures, bringing a sense of peace and hope. The stories of the Nativity were shared, reminding everyone of the true meaning of the holiday.

After the service, families would return home to enjoy a modest supper and share stories by the fire. Children would hang stockings, often repurposed from old fabric, hoping to find small treats like candy or nuts in the morning.

In some families, particularly those with strong ties to Eastern traditions, there might be a ritual of reading "A Christmas Carol" or another classic holiday tale aloud, fostering a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

Christmas Day Celebrations

As the sun rose on Christmas Day, the excitement was palpable. Children would rush to their stockings, their eyes lighting up at the sight of small gifts and treats. It was a magical moment, filled with wonder and joy.

After the morning festivities, families would gather for their Christmas feast. The tables were set with whatever they had, adorned with simple but heartfelt decorations. They would take turns expressing gratitude, reflecting on the blessings of the past year, and sharing hopes for the future.

In many towns, a communal celebration would follow. Neighbors would come together for games, dances, and storytelling. The town hall or community center would be transformed into a festive space, with music filling the air as folks danced and celebrated together.

The Spirit of Giving

In the Wild West, the spirit of giving was alive and well. Many townsfolk would organize charitable efforts to help those less fortunate. Baskets filled with food, blankets, and other essentials were often delivered to families in need. It was a time for generosity, embodying the community’s resilience and unity.

Local churches played a crucial role in these efforts, reminding everyone of the importance of kindness and compassion. Many families would make it a point to help their neighbors, recognizing that a strong community could weather any storm.

Reflecting on the Wild West Christmas

The Christmas season in the Wild West was more than just a holiday; it was a celebration of community, faith, and resilience. Amidst the challenges of frontier life, people found ways to connect and uplift one another. The memories created during these festive times were cherished, passing from one generation to the next.

While the Wild West was known for its rugged individualism, it was also a time when the power of community shone brightly. The traditions and stories from these celebrations remind us of the warmth and joy that can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.

As we reflect on our own holiday traditions, it’s essential to remember the spirit of the Wild West: a celebration of love, hope, and unity, where every little gesture mattered. This Christmas, let’s embrace that spirit in our own lives, creating a tapestry of memories that honors both our past and our future.

So, as the snow falls gently outside, gather your loved ones, share stories, and celebrate the simple joys of the season. After all, it’s not about what we have, but about who we share it with that truly matters.

About Janalyn Voigt

Janalyn Voigt's unique blend of adventure, romance, suspense, and whimsy creates worlds of beauty and danger for readers in several genres. 

Learn More.

Western Historical Romance

The stunning epic western historical romance novel, Hills of Nevermore, kicks off Janalyn Voigt's Montana Gold series, which follows the lives and loves of a family of Irish immigrants surviving the Wild West through six novels.

Medieval Epic Fantasy

Beginning with DawnSinger, Janalyn Voigt's medieval epic fantasy series, Tales of Faeraven. carries readers into a land only imagined in dreams. 

Christmas Nuptials in the 1890s

By Susan G Mathis

The 1890s was a period marked by elegance, tradition, and a deep sense of romance. Against the backdrop of gas-lit streets and horse-drawn carriages, Christmas weddings in this era were nothing short of enchanting. The Victorian era, known for its elaborate ceremonies and meticulous attention to detail, set the stage for weddings that were as opulent as they were heartwarming.

Churches and venues were transformed into scenes from a Dickens novel, with flickering candlelight creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe added bursts of color, infusing the air with the scents of the season.

Brides in the 1890s embraced the Victorian penchant for opulence and modesty. Ivory and white were the prevailing choices for bridal gowns, often adorned with lace, satin, and intricate beadwork. High necklines, long sleeves, and full-length skirts characterized the fashionable bridal attire of the time. Veils were essential, often cascading gracefully down the back, complementing the bride's overall regal appearance.

Grooms, on the other hand, favored dark-colored suits, typically in shades of black or deep blue. Crisp white shirts, bow ties, and top hats completed the ensemble, exuding an air of sophistication and formality.

The exchange of vows and rings took center stage, accompanied by the rich resonance of traditional Christmas carols. Seasonal hymns added a festive touch to the proceedings, with church choirs often performing elaborate arrangements. The ceremony itself was a solemn affair, symbolizing the sanctity of marriage. Couples exchanged vows in the presence of family and friends, pledging their commitment to one another in a manner that reflected the prevailing societal values of the time.

Post-ceremony celebrations were marked by lavish feasts. The Christmas spirit was alive in the form of mulled wine, eggnog, and other festive libations. The grandeur of the Victorian era was mirrored in the elaborate table settings, where silverware, crystal, and fine china adorned the tables.

Entertainment was a crucial aspect of these celebrations, with live music, dancing, and parlor games keeping guests entertained throughout the evening. The joyous atmosphere of Christmas permeated every aspect of the festivities, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance. In Libby’s Lighthouse, readers get to enjoy a Victorian Christmas wedding.

Have you been to a Christmas wedding? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on February 19th for my next post.

ABOUT LIBBY’S LIGHTHOUSE:

Elizabeth Montonna, daughter of the Tibbett’s Point Lighthouse keeper, thought she’d love the lighthouse life forever—until her dying mother reveals a long-buried secret. Now Libby questions if she’ll ever truly belong and be loved. But when a dashing wounded sailor appears knowing nothing about his past or identity, his kindness and character steal a little more of her heart each day. Owen has no choice but to accept the hospitality of the lighthouse keeper and his lovely daughter. As his relationship with Libby turns serious, he knows their budding romance can go no further until he uncovers his past. With each passing day, Owen discovers the secrets of his identity, but will the revelations bring him closer to Libby or tear them apart forever?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has thirteen in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.

Maud and Frank Baum by Nancy J. Farrier

 

Frank and Maud in Egypt
Wikimedia Commons

Last month I wrote my blog post about Matilda Joselyn Gage, women’s rights activist. You can read that post here. I mentioned in that article that Matilda had a famous son-in-law and today’s article is about Matilda’s daughter, Maud, and her husband, Frank.

 

Maud in Wedding Dress 
Wikimedia Commons

Maud Gage was the youngest of Matilda’s children. Matilda had high hopes for her daughter, sending her to school and encouraging her to attend college. Maud went to Cornell University and roomed with Josie Baum, Frank’s cousin. Josie arranged for Maud to meet Frank, saying that he was perfect for Maud.

 

Maud was outspoken and enjoyed being herself, not having the restraints taught to most of the girls of her time. The boys at Cornell started rumors about her and harassed her until Maud locked herself in her room. But the traits that her fellow students found funny were the very things Frank was attracted to.

 

Frank Baum grew up in New York and was sent to a military academy when he was twelve. Frank was a dreamer, not a student. He ended up leaving the military academy and attending high school in Syracuse. He didn’t graduate and had a low opinion of education.

 

Frank Baum 1911
By George Steckel
Wikimedia Commons

When Maud and Frank were introduced at the home of Josie, Maud’s roommate, Josie’s mother told Frank he would love Maud. Frank looked at Maud and said, “Consider yourself loved, Miss Gage.” Maud replied that his statement was a promise and he needed to live up to it.

 

At the time they met, Frank was running a theater company and travelling a lot. He was certain within a week that Maud was the one for him, but it took Maud longer. Frank often borrowed a horse and buggy to drive the eight miles from the theater to her Maud’s home to court her. 

 

Matilda was not in favor of Maud marrying an actor. She wanted something more for her daughter. But Maud stood up to her mother, threatening to move out of their home if she didn’t give her approval. Matilda saw the humor in her edict and agreed to the marriage.

 

Maud with their four sons - Wikipedia Commons

Frank and Maud’s marriage was a happy one, but not always easy. Frank’s theater company folded. He was a hard worker and would take on any work but he didn’t have the best business sense. He was too soft-hearted. They moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where Frank opened Baum’s Bazaar. The store was a hit, but the times were harsh and people didn’t have a lot of money. Frank extended credit to the point where the store folded due to his debts.

 

Prior to moving to South Dakota, they had two sons. When Maud gave birth to their second son, Robert, she suffered from peritonitis. She was bed ridden for two years recovering, but eventually regained her strength, giving birth to two more sons.

Baum poster - Wikipedia Commons

Frank moved his family to Chicago and he got a job as a newspaper reporter. Maud  was in charge of their finances and knew how dire their situation was. She began giving lessons on embroidery and lace-making. 

 

In 1897 Frank published his first children’s book, Mother Goose in Prose. In 1899, he published Father Goose, His Book, a volume of poetry nonsense. Both books were a success, but Father Goose became the best-selling book of the year.

 

In 1900, L. Frank Baum published The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. This popular book stayed a best-seller for two years. Frank wrote thirteen more novels based on the Land of Oz. Due to the success of his books, he and Maud were financially set. In fact, they took a trip abroad that included Egypt, which Maud loved. During the trip, Maud wrote letters home describing their adventures and Frank gathered them together and published them in a book.

 

1903 Musical poster
Public Domain

There is much more I could tell about Frank and Maud but don’t have the space here. If you are interested in more of their story, I highly recommend reading Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts. This engaging read tells the story of Frank and Maud meeting and the story of the making of the Wizard of Oz movie. 

 

Thank you for reading my blog post. I pray you have a blessed Christmas and a happy holidays. I’ll see you again in 2025.

 

Nancy J Farrier is an award-winning, best-selling author who lives in Southern Arizona in the Sonoran Desert. She loves the Southwest with its interesting historical past. When Nancy isn’t writing, she loves to read, do needlecraft, play with her cats and dog, and spend time with her family. You can read more about Nancy and her books on her website: nancyjfarrier.com.

 

When Christmas wasn't legal in America

Did you know America’s earliest settlers didn’t celebrate Christmas? The pilgrims (as history refers to them) may have ushered in the first Thanksgiving, but they were not fans of Christmas. The pilgrims were Separatists. They were much more conservative than the Puritans who want to purify the Anglican Church. Instead, the Separatists desired to start a new church that followed the Lord in a stricter fashion. They shunned anything related to paganism.

Separatist and Puritan ban the celebration
December 25, 1620 found the pilgrims frantically building shelters against the harsh winter. They had only arrived days earlier, resting only on the Sabbath. The following decades showed no inclinations to recognize the day. Both the Separatist and the Puritans who founded Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1629 banned Christmas celebrations.
Their reasons were both theological and moral. They believed Jesus was born in September rather than December.  Historically, December  25 was  on or near the Roman festival Saturnalia, the celebration of their Sun God, Mithra. Pope Julius I in 350 ADE supposedly chose that day to celebrate Christ’s birth to substitute a pagan ritual with a holy day. Naturally, neither the Separatists nor the Puritans desired to associate the birth of their Savior with the celebration of a pagan god.
Most Christmas celebrations in Europe went beyond a church service. Another thing that bothered our early settlers. There was much drunkenness, partying and debauchery, things they believed drew attention away from holiness, one of the pillars of their faith. Cotton Mathers, a leader of the Puritan church in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, identified those vices as playing games, cards, dancing, gluttony, and other things. That list doesn’t sound dissimilar to how we celebrate today to family game times, entertainment and overeating, except we might add football watching to the mix.

Cotton Mathers Getty Image

Vote out as a National Holiday, banned and fines
Christmas as a celebration was removed as a national holiday in England in 1645 due to a large Puritan influence in Parliament. Although it was unofficially celebrated after the workday was over. And religious services were still observed.
New England colonists banned any form of celebration in the 1600 and 1700s. Fines of five shillings, a hefty amount for most citizens, was levied against anyone who took the day off from work or was discovered feasting. The Puritans continued to ban it well into the 19th century.
Changes came slowly
As our country grew and new colonies formed, immigrants from other countries brought their Christmas traditions with them, both religious and secular. Benjamin Franklin wrote in his Poor Richard’s Almanac in 1739 regarding Christmas: “O blessed Season! Lov’d by Saints and Sinners/ For long devotions and even longer Dinners.”
During the Revolutionary War, Christmas was associated with England’s tyranny by many colonial New Englanders and was treated as any other day. George Washington and his men claimed a decisive victory on December 25, 1776, over the Hessian soldiers who were sleeping off a very drunken Christmas celebration.

 Even after America won their freedom, the Senate assembled on Christmas Day 1797, as did the House in 1802. Again, most of the thirteen colonies still carried on business as usual.

St Nicholas Poem and Alabama
By the mid-1800s celebrating Christmas gained popularity. Clement Clarke Moore’s Poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas”, published in New York in 1823 to much success shows the shift in acceptance of non-religious celebrations. Alabama was the first state to make Christmas a legal holiday in 1836, other states soon followed.
Massachusetts was the hold out. Businesses and schools stayed open through the 1850s, although the attitude was changing. Finally, President U. S. Grant declared Christmas a national holiday in 1870.
Christmas continued to change.
Along with making Christmas a national holiday came the adoption of many Christmas traditions from other cultures as our country spread from coast to coast. There are still groups today who don’t celebrate Christmas, not all for religious reasons. And unlike those in the past who were judged for celebrating, these groups are given the freedom to ignore the holiday if they desire.
Were you aware of the history behind Christmas as a holiday in America? What’s your favorite part of Christmas?

Cindy Ervin Huff, is a multi-published award-winning author. A 2018 Selah Finalist. She has a passion to encourage other writers on their journey. When she isn’t writing, she feeds her addiction to reading and enjoys her retirement with her husband of 50 plus years, Charles. Visit her at www.cindyervinhuff.com.
 

Cherishing Her Heart
Dianna Pilson takes on a new identity as Susan Sullivan after escaping from the asylum her  unsavory ex-husband put her in. She heads west with Fredrick Sullivan, her late father’s valet, pretending to be his daughter. They arrive in the small-town of Cooperville, Kansas where Fredrick has kin.  Becoming a simple woman of a lower class is challenging. She has no domestic skills, but her new Papa and his family are right there to help and keep her safe. Changing herself is much harder than she imagined, but far better than a lifetime in an asylum.
 

Monty Summerfield, a wealthy businessman, moved to Cooperville  to start over after his unscrupulous partner blew up the mine they owned with him in it. Assuming Monty was dead he  stole his identity and even his mail-order bride. After Ernie’s death, Monty has worked hard to regain his good name. Content as a bachelor he focuses on building his business interests and helping the community. Then Susan Sullivan steps off the stagecoach. He’s captivated by her, but can he risk his heart and scale the walls she’s built around hers.
As danger lurks from Susan’s past, and Monty steps up to help, can she trust him? Will their only solution lead to a happily-ever-after or bring on more trouble?

Available February 2025 Grab this link to preorder.

THE CHRIST CHILD AND THE CANDY CANE

 By Catherine Ulrich Brakefield

Many Christmas traditions and legends have passed down throughout the generations, and oftentimes we know not their origins. 

One such legend is the candy cane. Historians think this delectable treat was created somewhere around 1670.

To keep his choir boys silent during the Living Creche Ceremony, the choirmaster at Cologne Cathedral in Germany desired to hand out sugar sticks. The idea was frowned upon by his peers because it might distract from the Christmas aurora of the evening. So, to make the sugar sticks appear apropos to the ceremonies at Christmas, the choirmaster had the candy maker create sugar sticks into shepherds’ crooks.

During the turn of the century, red strips and the peppermint flavor emerged along with the sudden persecution of Christians in Germany and certain areas of Europe. 

It was then the candy cane unexpectedly became more than a tasty Christmas treat for choirboys and children. Now it was the adults who needed a taste of hope amidst this dismal period—desiring the faith of a child and the loving arms of their Savior. 

As the legend goes, Christians were not allowed to own a Cross or a Bible. Public displays of Christianity were banned. During this time, children did not behold a nativity scene. In church, they were not taught about the Christ Child. Church bells were silent. No carolers gayly sang the old-time favorites in the courtyards and streets. Good King Wenceslas did not look out windows, so no peasants enjoyed the warmth of a giving heart, food, or presents. Not even Santa Claus was laughing. No Child in a manger lite with a bright star graced the snowy white landscape, no wisemen bearing gifts, no gifts at all. And no rest for any weary gentlemen—because Jesus wasn’t real, and God appeared not to exist—except the god of self. 

A candy maker knelt and prayed to God. He had a limited education and limited talents. In truth, he had only one talent. How could he hope to change the direction in which he saw his countrymen traveling with his small gift? “What can I do Lord? I am but your instrument, pray, what would you have me do?” 

An idea took form. A small idea at first. But, yes, he could do this for his Savior, Jesus. He would capture the meaning of Christmas in a piece of candy, a little piece of candy to remind his countrymen of the story of the Christ Child. That wee Child with the mammoth message. A Christmas message of faith and hope that the world needed desperately—before the real story of Christmas was lost and forgotten amidst the devil’s diabolical plot to annihilate the true meaning of Christ-mas. 

This is what the unknown candy maker devised:

The candy cane is in the shape of a shepherd’s staff, signifying that Jesus is the good shepherd.  “The Lord is my Shephard I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one.”  (John 10:27-30)

Turning the candy cane upside down makes the letter J for Jesus. “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus.” (Luke 1:31) “And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

The reason the candy cane maker chose hard candy for the candy cane, is to remind the children that Jesus is our “rock” unshakable, invincibly strong. “For you are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for your name’s sake, lead me and guide me.” (Psalm 31:3)

The candy cane’s white base represents the purity of sinless Jesus and the cleansing we receive through His blood. “…but with the precious blood of Christ, as with a lamb without blemish and without spot.” (1Peter 1:19) “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1John 1:7)  “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the  Most High Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls or goats and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who throughout the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” (Hebrews 9:12-14)

Red Strips were added to the candy cane and represent the blood Jesus shed for our sins. When we trust in Christ Jesus, we are saved from the punishment of our sin and given eternal life!  “Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement, for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth.” (Isaiah 53:4-7) “…and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,” (Revelation 1:5)  

The flavor of peppermint was added because it is similar to hyssop, which was used for sacrifice and purification in the Old Testament, reminding us of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Peppermint also reminds us of the fragrant spices brought by the Wise men upon that first Christmas Day.  “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” (Psalm 51:7)  “When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over were the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother; and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:9-11)

Most importantly, the candy cane was made to be given away as a gift. Reminding us of the greatest gift ever given, the gift of God’s only Son, Jesus Christ. And never forget that gift of faith that leads us to the priceless gift of salvation.  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)  “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

The candy cane made its debut in America in 1847 in Wooster, Ohio when August Imgard, a German-Swedish immigrant used paper ornaments and candy canes to decorate his tiny blue spruce.

It is up to you and me to keep the message of the Christ child alive and not allow what happened in Europe and Germany to happen to us. 

When you bite into a candy cane—remember the meaning the Christ Child played in this little candy’s origin. May God bless one and all and have a very Merry Christ-mas!

The Destiny Series: Swept into Destiny, Destiny's Whirlwind, Destiny of Heart, and Waltz with Destiny Get whisked into the lives of the McConnell women in this historical Christian fiction series. Follow these strong women from the days of the Civil War through the epic battle with Hitler. Discover what has inspired readers across the world as these four books are brought together as a set for the first time.

"The message of the Destiny series is even more applicable today than when it first released. Praying for America’s repentance and to embrace God like never before."   Debra B.

An award-winning author, Catherine’s inspirational historical romances include Wilted Dandelions, her Destiny series Swept into Destiny, Destiny’s Whirlwind, Destiny of Heart, and Waltz with Destiny. Her newest book is Love's Final Sunrise. She has two pictorial history books: The Lapeer Area, and Eastern Lapeer Area. Her short stories have been published in Guideposts Books, CrossRiver Media, Revell Books, and Bethany House Publishers. She lives with her husband of 52 years and their Arabian horses in Addison Township, Michigan. See catherineulrichbrakefield.com 

References:

https://www.history.com/news/candy-canes-invented-germany  

https://teachwhatisgood.com/2022/12/14/the-story-of-the-candy-cane/ 

 

The Cost of Things in 1912

I’ve been hard at work writing my latest release Love in Store, which takes place in (mostly) rural Montana in 1912. In the book, main female character, McKenna Chapman, manages a boutique in the backward and uncivilized town of Hollow Creek. Below are some prices for items that may have been found in Miss Julia Mathilda’s Fine Dresses Boutique and in other stores in the year 1912.

A ruby and pearls or saphire ring sold for $18.50, as did a pansy flower brooch with a diamond.

Speaking of brooches, in the story, McKenna sells a cameo brooch. In my research, I discovered someone had lost a pink brooch and was offering a reward of $5 for its safe return.

McKenna sells a number of handbags at the boutique, much like the on-sale ones in the ad below.

Women’s coats were priced from $25 to $33, with some boasting velvet-inlaid collars and made of and lined with chinchilla cloth. Waterproof coats were valued at $5-$15, on sale from $7.50-$20.

Evening gowns and afternoon gowns were both sold in Miss Julia Mathilda’s Fine Dresses, and according to my research, were priced from $25-125. However, a smart shopper could watch the sales and purchase one for $12.50-$59.50. Care for a tailored suit? I found some priced at $95 each. Fine wool coats were from $19.50-$75.

While McKenna sells extravagant women’s clothing, one might find a shirt for $1.00-$1.50 on sale for $.69 at a general store or less-specialized clothing store.

In other news…

Davenports were a bit deal in those days, and you could snag a $70 davenport for $53 if you watched furniture store sales. Add a hall tree on sale for $21, reduced from $30.

Do you like to sew? Sewing machines were typically $35-$60, according to my research. However, you could find a deal on one for $27.50.

If you lived in 1912, would you be more likely to prefer living in a city, such as Missoula, or a small rural town, such as Hollow Creek?

Penny Zeller is known for her stories of faith-filled happily-ever-afters with tender romance, humor, and memorable characters. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications. Today, Penny is a multi-published author of over two dozen books. She is also a fitness instructor, loves the outdoors, and is a flower gardening addict.  In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, reading, running, and playing volleyball. She resides with her husband and two daughters in small-town America and loves to connect with her readers at www.pennyzeller.com.