Volume 13 , Issue 44

NW Okie's Corner

Happy Halloween or All Hallow's Eve! Have you ever wondered when halloween began . . . and Why?

The History channel states that halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and war costumes to ward off roaming ghosts.

In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints and martyrs. All Saints' Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows' Eve and later Halloween. It initially evolved into a secular, community event characterized by child friendly activities such as trick or treating.

Part of the history of Halloween is Halloween costumes. The practice of dressing up in costumes and begging door to door for treats on holidays goes back to the Middle Ages, and includes Christmas wassailing. Trick-or-treating resembles the late medieval practice of "souling," when poor folk would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls Day (November 2). It originated in Ireland and Britain, although similar practices for the souls of the dead were found as far south as Italy.

In Ohio, Iowa, and Massachusetts, the night designated for Trick-or-treating is often referred to as Beggars Night.

In a number of countries around the world, as the days grow shorter and the nights get colder, people will continue to usher int he winter season with gatherings, costumes and sweet treats . . . don't you think?

What is you most memorable memory of your childhood and halloween? Was it a Trick or Treat? Did it get you into trouble?

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