Sumark (Primroses) at Spooyt Vane, Isle of Man
Sumark (the Manx name for primroses), which is a culturally significant flower in the Isle of Man.
As well as giving its name to Cronk Sumark close to Sulby, the flower was used at Oie Voaldyn, the evening before 1 May:
"Oie Voaldyn was the occasion of many superstitious observances. On this evening the Fairies were supposed to be peculiarly active. To propitiate them, and to ward off the influence of evil Spirits and Witches, who were also active at this time, green leaves or boughs and sumark (or primerse flowers) were strewn on the threshold"
[A. W. Moore, 'Folklore of the Isle of Man' (1891)]
More about Oie Voaldyn can be found here: www.culturevannin.im/manx_year_event_475492.html
Culture Vannin exists to promote and support all aspects of culture in the Isle of Man.
Sumark (Primroses) at Spooyt Vane, Isle of Man
Sumark (the Manx name for primroses), which is a culturally significant flower in the Isle of Man.
As well as giving its name to Cronk Sumark close to Sulby, the flower was used at Oie Voaldyn, the evening before 1 May:
"Oie Voaldyn was the occasion of many superstitious observances. On this evening the Fairies were supposed to be peculiarly active. To propitiate them, and to ward off the influence of evil Spirits and Witches, who were also active at this time, green leaves or boughs and sumark (or primerse flowers) were strewn on the threshold"
[A. W. Moore, 'Folklore of the Isle of Man' (1891)]
More about Oie Voaldyn can be found here: www.culturevannin.im/manx_year_event_475492.html
Culture Vannin exists to promote and support all aspects of culture in the Isle of Man.