Strange Survivals: Some Chapters in the History of Man

Name: Strange Survivals: Some Chapters in the History of Man
Author: S. Baring-Gould

By S. Baring-Gould

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About This Book

The author collects and analyzes lingering folk customs, superstitions, and architectural rituals found across Europe, tracing pagan origins and later adaptations into Christian and rural practice. Organized into themed chapters—foundations, gables, ovens, beds, striking a light, umbrellas, dolls, revivals, broadside ballads, riddles, the gallows, holes, and social gestures—the work marshals legends, local anecdotes, and historical parallels to show how ancient beliefs survive in building rites, festival observances, popular songs, and everyday objects.

About the Author

S. Baring-Gould

Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924) was an English author, antiquarian, and folklorist, known for his extensive writings on regional history and folklore. He produced a diverse body of work, including travel literature, novels, and studies of local customs. His notable titles include "A Book of Cornwall" and "A Book of Dartmoor," which reflect his deep appreciation for the landscapes and cultures of these regions. Baring-Gould was also a prolific hymn writer and contributed significantly to the preservation of English folklore and traditions. His works continue to be valued for their rich detail and insight into the social history of England.