History Extra podcast New Year's Eve, newts and Nessie: a history of British folklore
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Dec 31, 2025 Joining the discussion are Dr. Kerry Holbrook, a Senior Lecturer in Folklore and History, and Owen Davies, a Professor of Social History, both from the University of Hertfordshire. They dive into the intriguing customs surrounding New Year's Day and the curious beliefs in newts as folk medicine. Folklore's role in shaping cultural identity is explored, alongside modern legends like Nessie and UFO sightings. They emphasize that folklore is not static but evolves, reflecting contemporary issues and community practices, even during lockdown.
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First-Footing Reflects Local Values
- First-footing customs vary regionally and reflect local values like hair colour and gender preferences.
- Communities adapted the ritual over time, using substitutes like fake coal when originals lost relevance.
Folklore Was Named In 1848
- The term 'folklore' was coined in 1848 by William Thoms to replace derogatory labels like 'vulgar antiquities'.
- It became an umbrella term covering customs, stories, beliefs, jokes and oral culture in Britain.
Folklore Calendars Are Layered
- Calendar customs blur Christian, medieval market, and political influences rather than arising from a single source.
- Many traditions shifted meaning over centuries, making their origins complex to trace.
