Pennsylvania Dutch superstitions of the late 1800s

The superstitions of the Pennsylvania Dutch extended far beyond Lancaster County, captivating readers across the country. Newspapers frequently published these intriguing and, at times, peculiar tales. Examples can be found in the August 15, 1871, edition of Indiana’s Kokomo Tribune and the September 2, 1871, edition of Illinois’s Sterling Gazette. These stories offered a glimpse into the rich folklore of the region, blending mystery and tradition in ways that fascinated audiences nationwide.

Hairy Man of Welsh Mountain

One of the most persistent superstitions is the legend of the “Hairy Man,” a wild figure said to live in the mountains. What we would call Bigfoot today. This mysterious creature is described as being covered entirely in hair, wearing no clothing, climbing tall trees, tormenting children and livestock, and eluding all attempts to capture it. These newspapers reported that a Reading paper had recently documented a sighting of this legendary figure on Welsh Mountain. The editor even remarked that it was high time this fearsome monster was dealt with and restrained.

Warding off Ghosts

The “sphook,” or ghost, is another common source of fear for Pennsylvania Dutch farmers. To ward off these supernatural visitors, many farms display horseshoes for protection. Traveling peddlers often profit from this superstition by selling charms and remedies, claiming they can rid a community of such hauntings.

Treasure Hunting

Hunting for lost or hidden treasure is another activity steeped in superstition. People have used divining rods, spells, and self-proclaimed prophets to locate treasure, often involving large groups of hopeful participants. There are even places, like Germantown near Philadelphia, where deep excavations in solid rock were made in search of supposed riches. Click here to read more about Pennsylvania Dutch treasure-hunting superstitions.

Laying of Hands

The region also boasts a rich history of patent medicines and miracle cures. Nearly every town has one or more vendors selling remedies with questionable claims. Recently, an old man near Lititz passed away, known for buying a new farm nearly every year with the profits from his “cures.” Dressed in the traditional Dunker style until his death, he was said to perform miraculous healings through the laying on of hands, which he attributed to divine power.

Click here to read the original September 1871 article in the Sterling Gazette.

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Resources

• Sterling Gazette September 2, 1871
• The Kokomo Tribune August 15, 1871