Our ancestors believed in some pretty wild superstitions that make most us smile today.
From coast to coast, folks used to swear by these old sayings to keep bad luck at bay o invite good fortune.
Some of these beliefs will awaken your nostalgia and take your right back to childhood.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit 10 old-school American myths that you’ve probably forgotten – but definitely should remember!
1. Knock on Wood for Good Luck
Well, this one’s a classic! It dates back to ancient times when trees were considered sacred and believed to be homes for spirits.
Americans, especially in the Midwest and South, would tap on wood to ward of bad luck or reverse jinxes.
It’s simple gesture that still pops up today, making us feel just a little more connected to those old superstitions.
Nothing beats that nostalgic feeling of hoping for the best with a quick tap or two!
I usually knock three times. What about you?
2. Avoid Walking Under a Ladder
Remember the scare of walking under a ladder?!
This superstition is rooted in medieval symbolism. Ladders leaning against the wall formed a triangle, which was sagrado. Breaking that triangle was believed to bring bad luck, or even death!
In the US, folks used to steer clear of ladders to avoid inviting misfortune, especially around construction sites or during home repairs.
It’s funny how the simple act of walking underneath could cause so much worry!
3. Black Cats Bring Bag Luck
Black cats have long been associated with witches and spooky stories. In many parts of America, especially in the South, seeing black cat crossing your path was considered a sign of bad luck.
But it’s not all gloom! Some believed gatos negros were protectors.
Still, many old people would cross their fingers and turn around when they saw one, just in case.
It’s a charming superstition that reminds us of Halloween and those eerie, candle-lit evening of childhood.
4. Spilling Salt Brings Trouble
Salt has been a symbol of purity and protection for ages. Spilling salt was believed to invite bad luck, unless you quickly threw a pinch over your left shoulder to ward off evil spirits.
Americans, especially in rural areas, keep salt shakers closer and performed this little ritual to keep bad vibes away.
It’s a superstition that’s so simple, and yet so nostalgic.
5. Breaking a Mirror Means Seven Years of Bad Fortune
Breaking a mirror used to be a big deal! Folks believed that mirrors reflect your soul, so smashing one could bring seven years of misfortune.
People would often hide the broken shards or quickly sweep them up to avoid bad luck.
This superstition was especially popular in small-town America, where these beliefs were woven into everyday life.
It’s funny how a little accident could cause such dread – making us appreciate the safety of our unbroken reflections and the old stories that came with them.
6. Opening an Umbrella Indoors Is Bad Luck
Umbrellas are handy, but opening one indoors was once thought to bring bad luck – like inviting evil spirits into your home.
This superstition probably came from the idea that opening an umbrella indoors could cause accidents, or break the magic of protection.
In American households, especially in the early 20th century, people would quickly close umbrellas to avoid opening them inside altogether.
It’s a tiny, nostalgic reminder when these beliefs dictated even the smallest everyday actions.
7. Don’t Cross Your Fork and Knife at the Dinner Table
This superstition’s a bit more subtle. Americans believed that crossing your utensils on your plate was a sign of mala suerte o impending disaster.
It was seen as a warning sign for something ominous on the horizon.
Families would often gently correct kids or guests who did this, making the dining table feel a bit more sacred.
Today, it might seem trivial, it was a yet another way folks tried to make good times last and avoid any unlucky surprises at the dinner table.
8. Find a Penny for Good Luck
Most of us have picked up a shiny penny on the sidewalk once or twice, but did you know it was believed to bring good luck.
Older people would say: “Find a penny, pick it up, and all day you’ll have good luck!”
It’s a simple, sweet superstition that made everyone smile. Even today, those little coins remind us of childhood and the facts that small things can bring joy.
Perhaps that’s why we still tend to pocket that penny – just in case!
9. The Evil Eye Superstition and Protecting Yourself
In some parts of the US, especially in the immigrant communities, the superstition of the evil eye was real.
People believed that envy or jealous looks could cause harm, so they’d wear charms or say protective prayers.
These beliefs are still quite popular in places like the Eastern Europe, Turkey and the Middle East. A kind chambermaid in a hotel in Turkey once left an evil eye ward under my bed.
This is a reminder of how different cultures brought their unique beliefs to America, blending them into everyday life.
10. Don’t Whistle at Night
Finally, whistling at night was thought to summon snakes, evil spirits and atraer a mala suerte.
This superstition was especially common in rural America, where folks believed spirits or ghosts could be stirred by a simple sound.
Behind was the fear of disturbing a peaceful night, especially in old farmhouse or quiet towns.
Es un nostalgic eco of the time when people watched the night more carefully.
A little Aquarius, devoted to writing and embroidery. Through my writing, I hope to empower readers to align with their true selves and navigate life’s mysteries with confidence.