Barn stars are a sweet ornament frequently spotted above the door at the top of a barn. They can be painted on or made out of metal stars. As an alternative, hex signs or quilt squares are occasionally used in their stead. There is a purpose for these decorations, and it’s probably not what you expected.
It turns out that Barn stars are actually very important to German-American farmers. They’re placed up at the top of barns to keep evil away or bring good luck to the farmer’s harvest. Interestingly, they may vary in color and each has its own meaning. For example, a green barn star represents the fertility of crops, symbolizing healthy growth. Meanwhile, blue or black barn stars signify protection over the farmer, their household, and their crops. On the other hand, brown represents friendship.
Barn Stars have an Interesting History
Barn stars first appeared on barns in the 1830s, though they have since taken on a certain amount of fashion. the Pennsylvania Dutch, or Amish, community. Every emblem is a modification of European German folk art that was brought over. Away from popular culture and modern technology, the Amish are renowned for leading very simple lives.
Barn stars are only one of the many regional traditions and customs that have been passed down through the years. What’s more intriguing is that for someone whose family has strong ties to Pennsylvania Dutch traditions, things that are frequently associated with one another have very distinct meanings.
Patrick Donmoyer stated that it’s crucial to understand that there are actually two parallel traditions: “There are the barn stars, and then there are the hex signs.”
Barn Stars May Offer Protection
Donmoyer is the director of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University. He explained that many of the hex signs appeared in other places such as marriage licenses to bring good fortune to the newlyweds. Or on tombstones to help guide the deceased into tranquility in the afterlife.
Superstitions have been around for centuries, and have each adapted to fit the new constraints of the ever-evolving people of the planet. Astonishingly, barn stars did not have the same meaning or “power” as believed today. In fact, according to Donmoyer, “These were part of the agricultural lifestyle. They were something that was not necessarily connected to supernatural events or ideas.” Actually, hex signs were inspired by, and began showing up on barns nearly 100 after the barn stars.
Hex Signs aren’t the Same
A New England artist named Wallace Nutting visited Pennsylvania Dutch Country in 1924 and “misinterpreted” the original quilt squares or barn stars to create the hex signs.
“He was describing something real, but what he was describing was misunderstood,” Donmoyer explained. “It was not the stars on the barn that he was describing, it was actually this idea of the hexenfoos. He kind of transposed the two aspects of the tradition.”
These designs were being reinvented by the 1950s and were now a popular tourist destination. A reminder of the ingenuity, labour, and customs of a culture that has long confounded mainstream society is provided by the appearance of barn stars and quilt squares on barns throughout Pennsylvania Dutch country.
These symbols stand for culture and traditions that have been passed down from one generation to the next. Consequently, despite being widely believed to ward off evil, barn stars served for the Pennsylvania Dutch as a decorative remembrance of their forefathers and their native place.
Many Cultures Have Something Similar
As previously mentioned, superstitions have been around for a long time. They are meant to help ward off evil, prevent bad luck, and in many cases promote prosperity and happiness. Unsurprisingly, many cultures and countries have their own ancient symbols that have, like barn stars, been adapted for the purpose of warding off evil and providing protection for households and families.
Om
For example, Om is a symbol often used in meditation and other spiritual practices to provide protection. While many have heard the word or sound, there’s actually a visual representation of the word itself. It is believed to “purify” the mind and body, creating a happy and harmonious balance between serenity and life’s hardships.
Eye of Horus
Another example is the Eye of Horus from Egypt. The powerful symbol is thought to provide healing and protection and is often found in wall writings or jewelry from ancient Egypt. Or the Hamsa Hand, found in the Middle East and Mediterranean, which is believed to ward off evil and bring good health, luck, and fortune.
Turtle
Fascinatingly, turtles are also a highly honored symbol. Native American, as well as African tribes believe the turtle is a representation of long life, wisdom, fertility, and remaining grounded.
Helm of Awe
Lastly, the Helm of Awe is a Norse symbol that is believed to protect warriors during battle and strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Same but Different
Despite the fact that people in other nations have been cut off from one another, technological improvements have made it simpler to recognise the similarities among many nations and civilizations, each of which has its own name and meaning for these symbols.
Nevertheless, each symbol is regarded as promising safety, wealth, and good health and serves as a reminder of our ancestors’ wishes for the future prosperity of our families and community.
The intricate history of barn stars is filled with lovely, simple designs. Check out this video for more ideas and instructions:
Sources
- “The Ancient Symbols Once Used To Ward Away Witches.” Art Society. October 26, 2020.
- “Quilt Trail.” Grand County History
- “The 15 Most Powerful Protection Symbols – Protect You From Evil And Negativity.” Western Sydney EDU
- “If You See a ‘Barn Star,’ This Is What It Means.” Taste of Home. Molly Allen. March 23, 2023.
- “Barn Stars and Hex Signs: Two Parallel Pennsylvania Dutch Traditions.” Lancaster Farming. Stephanie Speicher. May 26, 2023.
