Holiday

Halloween Customs

Children in Halloween Costumes

All Hallow’s Eve--the night when witches and hobgoblins supposedly walk abroad. What began in the 1860s as a night of boyish pranks evolved into a county-wide celebration of parties, parades and fun.

Valentine’s Day

Valentine to Fanney Shetron from civil war soldier Samuel B. Franklin, February 11, 1862

There are many theories about the origins of Valentine’s Day. The Romans celebrated a festival called Lupercalia in honor of the gods of love in mid-February. In 496 the Pope declared that the death of St. Valentine should be celebrated on February 14.