You might have spotted those charming decorations called barn stars adorning the peaks of barns. They’re either painted directly or crafted from metal, and sometimes you’ll see hex signs or quilt squares taking their place. But did you know these decorations have a deeper meaning?
For German-American farmers, barn stars carry great significance. Placed prominently on barns, they are believed to protect against evil or bring good fortune to the harvest. Their meaning can also change based on their color.
For example, a green barn star symbolizes lush crops and growth. Blue or black ones are thought to provide protection to the farmer, their family, and their harvest. Meanwhile, brown stars are a sign of friendship.
The tradition of barn stars dates back to the 1830s, gaining popularity particularly within the Pennsylvania Dutch or Amish communities, which are known for their simple way of life. These stars are a form of European German folk art brought over by settlers. But the meaning attached to each motif can differ markedly, especially for those deeply rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch traditions.
Patrick Donmoyer, who directs the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University, notes the difference between barn stars and hex signs. While barn stars were used primarily on barns, hex signs appeared in numerous places, such as marriage certificates and even grave markers, to bring peace to the deceased.
For centuries, superstitions have adapted to the world’s changing cultures. Although barn stars are now seen as protective symbols, they didn’t originally have this mystical attribute. As Donmoyer points out, “These were part of the agricultural lifestyle. They weren’t necessarily linked to supernatural beliefs.” In fact, hex signs started appearing on barns about a century after barn stars came into use.
Hex signs are often confused with barn stars, but they hold a separate identity. In 1924, Wallace Nutting, an artist from New England, interpreted these signs based on his visit to Pennsylvania Dutch Country. His descriptions, however, mixed up the traditions, referring to the “hexenfoos” and misrepresenting the authentic barn stars and quilt squares.
By the 1950s, these designs had evolved and became a significant attraction. They highlight the creativity, hard work, and traditions of a culture that modern society often finds mysterious. Barn stars and quilt squares remind us of the heritage and continuity within the Pennsylvania Dutch communities.
Many cultures around the world have their own equivalents to barn stars. Over time, superstitions have existed across different societies to ward off evil, attract positivity, and ensure happiness and prosperity. Countless tribes and nations have protective symbols, just like the barn stars, adjusted to safeguard homes and families.
Take the symbol “Om”—widely recognized in spiritual practices for protection during meditation, merging physical and mental well-being.
Similarly, the Egyptian Eye of Horus, often seen in ancient relics, is believed to provide protection and healing. There’s also the Hamsa Hand from the Middle East and the Mediterranean, which is thought to shield against evil, promoting good health and fortune.
Furthermore, turtles hold a place of reverence, representing longevity and wisdom in Native American and African cultures.
Helm of Awe
A Norse symbol known as the Helm of Awe is reputed to protect warriors, instilling fear in their opponents during battle.
Same but Different
Even though these cultures might have been isolated in the past, today’s connected world allows us to uncover the similarities between the symbols of protection across various nations. Regardless of origin, each figure stands for security, prosperity, and health, echoing the desires of our forebears for their families and villages.
The simple designs of barn stars narrate a rich history, passing down the values of endurance and harmony. To learn more about these intriguing decorations, have a look at this video: