So how and why did the carving of pumpkins become a part of Halloween? How did the jack-o'-lantern become a part of this tradition of costumes and sweet treats? Where did the name jack-o'-lantern come from? The legend that has been told references a man named “ Stingy Jack” and goes back to when the Irish immigrants came to the United States due to the potato famine many years ago. When you follow the journey throughout the centuries, you will find names like “All Hallows Eve,” “All Saints Day” or “All Hallows Day,” “Hallowmas” (Hallow – Holy or Saintly – mas – mass of the saints) to early 20th century American “Halloween.” The end of the harvest season in ancient fifth century BC Celtic Ireland, "Samhain" (sow-in), the word for summer’s end, is said to be the beginning of the current celebration.
You can find many stories of the origin of Halloween that goes back thousands of years. In searching for the origins of the jack-o’-lantern, you have to first gather a little insight to the origins of the fall season tradition. The time of year between fall and winter, life and death, plenty and scarceness, Halloween is a time of celebration and fantasy. In an October 2012 Michigan State University Extension article, “ Global traditions connection and education: Halloween,” some history on this colorful fall celebration was provided. As jack-o’-lanterns are being carved, take the educational opportunity to learn about the Irish legend of this now American traditional activity.
Halloween will soon be upon us and provide a great opportunity for youth cultural education.
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