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"Allhallow-Eve" - a sketch in Kilkenny by Edmund Fitzpatrick, 1858. Creator: Unknown. "Allhallow-Eve" - a sketch in Kilkenny by Edmund Fitzpatrick, 1858. Creator: Unknown
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"Allhallow-Eve" - a sketch in Kilkenny by Edmund Fitzpatrick, 1858. Creator: Unknown. "Allhallow-Eve" - a sketch in Kilkenny by Edmund Fitzpatrick, 1858. Creator: Unknown
"Allhallow-Eve" - a sketch in Kilkenny by Edmund Fitzpatrick, 1858. Allhallow-eve (1st of November)...is the night of all others on which the Irish peasantry believe that ghosts, witches, and fairies, but especially the redoubtable phoca, are so industrious in playing pranks on unwary travellers, and that supernatural events narrated by such adventurers form themes for gossip at many a cottage fireside for many a long night afterwards. It is, therefore, not surprising that this evening should be spent in a more festive manner than any other by this imaginative people...A collection being made, the merry party are soon supplied with plenty of eatables, and the indispensable mountain dew in profusion, for the occasion; the scaltheen, or cross sticks, being then suspended from the roof and decorated with apples and lighted candles placed alternately on its points, and, being kept twirling round, invites many a candidate to compete for the ruddy prize; but singed hair or eyelashes, together with the pleasure of being laughed at, is often the reward of his exertions...diving for money in a tub of water is next resorted to...Burning nuts, fortune-telling, and stories are next engaged in, all of which are wound up with a dance'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858
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Allhallow-Eve,
EDITORS COMMENTS
a captivating sketch by Edmund Fitzpatrick, dated 1858, depicts an enchanting scene in Kilkenny, Ireland, as the community gathers to celebrate the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, now known as Allhallow-eve. This night, falling on October 31st, marks the threshold of winter and is believed to be a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead becomes thin. The Irish peasantry held this evening in high regard, as they believed it to be the night when ghosts, witches, fairies, and other supernatural beings played pranks on the unsuspecting. In turn, the community came together to ward off any potential mischief and to celebrate with merriment and joy. As depicted in the sketch, a group of locals have gathered around a roaring fire, their faces illuminated by the flickering flames. A collection has been made, and the merrymakers are soon supplied with an abundance of food and drink. The scaltheen, or cross sticks, are suspended from the roof, adorned with apples and lighted candles. The game invites many a participant to try their luck at catching the roasted apples, with singed hair or eyelashes and laughter being the possible rewards. Next, they engage in diving for money in a tub of water, followed by burning nuts, fortune-telling, and storytelling. The night concludes with a dance, a communal celebration that brings the community together in the face of the supernatural. This scene, as illustrated by Edmund Fitzpatrick in 1858, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions and beliefs of the Irish people during this time. It is a testament to the power of community, storytelling, and the enduring allure of the supernatural.
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