From Jack-O’-Lanterns to Gourds- Exploring the History of Carvings Before Pumpkins

What did people carve before pumpkins? The tradition of carving jack-o’-lanterns has become synonymous with Halloween, but this spooky custom has a rich history that predates the pumpkin. Understanding the origins of this practice can shed light on the cultural and symbolic significance behind it.

The practice of carving faces into vegetables and fruits dates back thousands of years, with various cultures engaging in similar rituals. One of the earliest examples of carved vegetables can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where people would carve radishes and turnips into lanterns to honor the god Osiris during the festival of the dead. These lanterns were believed to guide the spirits of the deceased to the afterlife.

In medieval Europe, the tradition of carving faces into vegetables and fruits continued, but with a different purpose. It was believed that carving faces into turnips and placing them in windows would scare away evil spirits and protect the home from witchcraft. This practice was particularly common in Scotland and Ireland, where the term “jack-o’-lantern” originated.

The pumpkin, as we know it today, became the preferred carving material in North America due to its abundance and ease of carving. However, before the pumpkin became popular, people used a variety of other vegetables and fruits to create their lanterns. Here are some of the most common alternatives:

1. Turnips: As mentioned earlier, turnips were a popular choice in Europe, particularly in Scotland and Ireland. They were easy to carve and had a similar texture to pumpkins.

2. Carrots: Carrots were also used in Europe, especially in Germany, where they were known as “Karottenlaternen.” These lanterns were believed to protect against evil spirits and bring good luck.

3. Potatoes: In some parts of Europe, potatoes were used as an alternative to turnips and pumpkins. They were carved into lanterns and used in similar ways to scare away evil spirits.

4. Apples: In some cultures, apples were carved into lanterns and used in rituals to honor the dead. These lanterns were believed to guide the spirits of the deceased to the afterlife.

5. Gourds: Gourds have been used for centuries in various cultures for their versatility and durability. They can be carved into lanterns and used in similar ways to other vegetables and fruits.

The tradition of carving faces into vegetables and fruits has evolved over time, but its core purpose remains the same: to protect against evil spirits and honor the dead. Whether it’s a pumpkin, turnip, or another vegetable, the act of carving a face into a lantern is a powerful symbol of our connection to the past and our desire to keep the spirits of our ancestors close to us.