The First Crossing

Long ago, there was a tradition observed on New Year’s Eve called ‘the first crossing’. Someone in the home would pick a large backlog meant for the fire, carry it over the threshold, and place the log at the back of the fireplace.

This event took place at midnight to mark the beginning of a New Year. ‘The first crossing’ was recognized as a tradition that brought good luck and prosperity to the family and home.

As the last two centuries have passed, many of the traditions surrounding fireplaces as an important part of family life have faded away and been replaced by new traditions.

For me, however, the stories of life in those far-off times remain fresh in my memory, and I find myself still practicing a number of those old ways.

So, I already have a backlog picked out. When midnight arrives and it’s officially January 2020, I will cross over the threshold with my backlog, place it in the fireplace, and start the year with a great fire and hopefully some good luck.

– John Coykendall, Master Gardener