Uncovering Yorkshire’s Quirky Traditions of Luck and Superstition
The concept of luck is widespread around the world, with different cultures having their own beliefs about what can bring good or bad fortune. There have even been psychological studies into the topic, with Richard Wiseman’s research in The Luck Factor inspiring a Derren Brown special that took place in Todmorden in 2011.
In Yorkshire, there are certain rituals and beliefs that are unique to the area but are commonplace if you know where to look. Many of these are similar to those found in other cultures, but there are a few quirky ones that can only be found in these parts.
Yorkshire Isn’t Famous for Its Lucky Traditions
When most people think of luck and its associated symbolism, Yorkshire isn’t the first place that springs to mind. There are certain places around the world that have built a whole culture around these belief systems, though, with China famously having countless well-known superstitions. In the Eastern nation, the colour red is famous for symbolising good fortune, and there are animals such as the dragon and the lion that are considered lucky.
Ireland is another nation that has exported its ideas of luck around the world. Indeed, The Luck of the Irish is a common expression, with people from the Emerald Isle believed to have greater fortune than normal folk. Thanks to the associations with luck in Ireland, Irish themes have become widespread in the online slots market. For instance, 12 Pots of Gold Drums is among the top 10 UK slots, and features well-known lucky iconography such as leprechauns and rainbows.
What are the Most Common Symbols of Luck in Yorkshire?
One of the most common lucky symbols found in Yorkshire is the horseshoe above a door in a U shape. There’s a widespread belief across the UK that this can catch luck, and some reports suggest it began in Yorkshire. Similarly, you’ll often come across luck stones in doorways, which are used as protective charms to ward off unwanted spirits.
If you head up into North Yorkshire and check out some of the older buildings in the region, you may come across witch posts. These are wooden posts carved with a St Andrew’s cross and placed near the hearth. The reason for having these was because people thought they would stop a witch from coming down the chimney and entering the house.
What are Some of the Main Lucky Rituals Here?
Along with common symbols to do with luck and superstition, there are also some rituals that people from around here have grown up with. For example, if you see a single magpie, it’s considered unlucky. To counteract that bad luck, you can greet it politely.
Another ritual that may seem strange to outsiders is the first-footing tradition of crossing a threshold after midnight on New Year’s Day. Shared with other parts of Northern England, as well as Scotland, this belief stipulates that the first person to cross should bring symbolic items such as coal or bread with them to signify warmth or sustenance for the year ahead.
There may not be any proof to lucky symbols working, but Wiseman’s research did reveal that people who believed in luck generally had better fortune than those who didn’t. So, it may be an idea to embrace Yorkshire’s lucky traditions – just in case.