Hex Signs

Hex signs were originally called Sech Circles because the first ones included a six-pointed star in a circle. Later, they were also referred to as Hexerie or Jinks. They are usually painted in bright colors and have meaning. Red stood for emotion, yellow for love of man and the sun, green for growing things, blue for protection, white for purity, and brown for mother earth.

History

Hex signs were created by the Pennsylvania Dutch, who were actually Germans who fled to America in pursuit of the religious freedom being offered by William Penn. These symbols were painted on barns, carved into furniture, and hammered on to utensils. They were thought to bring luck, love, abundance, and ward off misfortune such as fire and lightning.

Two theories exist as to the origin of the name. Occult practitioners assert the term hex derives from the Pennsylvanian German word hex (German Hexe, Dutch Heks), which means witch. Supporters of the folk-art theory assert that since hex signs six-sided, brightly colored geometric designs, termed hexagrams, the name comes from the Greek root hex which means six.

It is more likely that occult practitioners are correct. A six-sided design said to offer protection against hexes. Hex signs can still be found above entranceways to Germanic homes and buildings. Hex signs was used to thwart negative rune workings and represented a positive charm.

Time Line

Hex signs began to appear to Europe in the early 15th century. In the mid 17th century, they started appearing in America.

During the 20th century hex signs were produced as souvenirs and keepsakes for the tourist industry in Pennsylvania. Hex signs were most often mounted onto barns or used as household decorations. Jacob Zook claimed to have invented the modern-day mountable sign in 1942. He based his work on traditional designs.

Today some non-Pennsylvania Dutch people use the hex signs in a talismanic nature, although most see hex signs as purely decorative.

Designs