Crosh Cuirn

Manx Museum Accession Number - 1995-0056

The crosh cuirn, a cross made from twigs of mountain ash (Rowan) bound together with sheeps wool from the hedgerows, would be renewed every May-day Eve. The Rowan was a tree imbued with magical powers since pre-Christian times, and people would walk considerable distances to collect it. The twigs had always to be broken, and never cut with a knife. It was always placed above the door of the cottage, and no evil thing could pass in where the crosh cuirn was. In addition, the crosh cuirn would be tied to the tails of cows or placed in the cowshed, to protect the cattle from harm. Fishermen would also hide a crosh cuirn somewhere in their boat to protect them from ill-luck.

DisabledGo Information

Terms & Conditions

©2008 Isle of Man Government