Old Wives Tales Origins

Step on a crack and you’ll break your Mother’s back

This rhyme is believed to have originated in England in the 19th century and was used to teach children to be careful when walking on uneven sidewalks.

 

A Black cat crossing your path is unlucky.

Traced back to medievel Europe, black cats were associated with witches and superstitions. Crossing paths with one was believd to bring bad luck.

 

Find a four leaf clover for good luck

Celtic folklore believed that finding a four leaf clover could ward off evil spirits. The rarity of the cloud added to its mystical properties.

 

Throwing spilled salt over your left shoulder

Traced back to ancient times when salt was a precious commodity, throwing it over the left shoulder is believed to ward off evil spirits.

 

Don’t sweep at night. You’ll sweep away your wealth.

Rooted in practicality, sweeping at night in the past could lead to the loss of valuable items in low light.

 

Knock on wood for good luck

The ancient belief that spirits resided in trees, knocking on wood was a way to seek protection or express gratitude.