|
 |
|
|
|
What Are Oogles & What Do They Have To Do With Ghosts?
In the lowcountry, that is the four counties of South Carolina that surround Charleston, there
are legends of ghosts, goblins, and other dark entities that supposedly come out at night and
search the streets for unsuspecting victims. While visiting Charleston, for example, ask
someone about the local tales of haunting, pirates, or hags (the spirit of an old woman that
bothers a person) that are said to still trouble the living. You'll be sure to find the lowcountry
rich in folklore.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
To ward off such unwanton spirits, some locals
carry what is called an "oogle" with them in
pocket. What is an oogle, you may ask? It is a
small, strange-looking, clay figurine that is said
to ward off evil spirits.
One flyer we found accompanying the oogles
we encountered had this to say about them:
"Here in the Lowcountry, legend has it that after
dark the streets fill with ghosts and goblins
roaming about scaring anyone that doesn't
have an Oogle to protect them. Now Oogles
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
may be strange looking little critters, but don't let
their size fool you. They can and will take care of
any size ghost or goblin."
Such superstitious beliefs beg the question, "Are
ghosts frightened by emblems, figurines, or
relics?" Probably not, unless the disembodied
human spirit was raised to be superstitious and
believes in such lore. For example, some ghosts
that had a religious upbringing might be
frightened by a priest brandishing holy water and
a cross. The emblems themselves do not hold any
power, but the belief that they somehow do is
where their strength lies. The power of fear is a
very strong motivator. If somebody believes that
something can harm them, then to that person,
such beliefs seem very real. Beyond that, we see
such legends and lore as just superstitions. As for
Oogles, well, they are interesting bits of charming
folklore that continue to survive within our culture.
Right: A close-up of our "Oogle" that we
purchased in downtown Charleston at the market.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Ghosts & Oogles Copyright 2010 Angels & Ghosts, LLC
|
|
|
|
|