Aiken, S.C.: A Lucky Twist on Friday the 13th
It’s a bright and inviting Friday the 13th here in Aiken, South Carolina, but instead of hiding under the covers, many locals are stepping out with a skip in their step. While some people might see this date as spooky, for others, it’s a day filled with charm and a sprinkle of good fortune. Loren Hazard-Daniel, a resident here, cheerfully shared, “Friday the 13th is actually a lucky day for me, always has been.” Aiken’s equestrian spirit seems to enhance this sense of luck, as horses hold a special place in the hearts of many here.
The Belief in Horseshoes
A lot of folks in Aiken believe that the traditional horseshoe brings good luck. “I absolutely am. I keep this in my desk drawer, it is good luck,” Judy Lynn said, showcasing her trusty horseshoe, a symbol of hope and prosperity. The discussion quickly turns to the best way to hang a horseshoe for maximum luck. Michele Shackford insists with conviction, “You always want to hang your horseshoe with the end of the shoe pointing up to catch all the luck.”
However, the local beliefs even take a twist when it comes to decorating horse trailers. It seems that some trailers have the horseshoe decals facing down! Searching online reveals that while some folks believe hanging a horseshoe pointed down lets luck spill out for anyone who passes beneath it, others firmly hold that it should point up to store luck safely. Michele, however, stands firmly on her side, stating simply, “Prongs up always.”
Judy shares a skeptical grin, saying, “So, prongs down is not working in Aiken.” It’s clear there’s a good-natured debate in progress, but what’s most important is that the whole community seems to cherish the company of their four-legged friends, whether they have horseshoes or not.
Just a Regular Kind of Luck
Helen Williams, another Aiken native, finds a refreshing angle to the day’s significance. She says, “I think it’s a good day if all my horses keep their shoes, so I call that a good day in and of itself.” Her focus takes us back to the heart of Aiken—the horses. The locals find comfort in their steeds and the barn, making every day, lucky or not, a good day as long as their animal companions are happy and healthy.
Cultural Touches on a Day of Belief
Now, as many Aiken residents playfully debate over the correct way to hang a horseshoe, they also embrace the traditional superstitions that go along with Friday the 13th. Out there, folks are riding horses, polishing their tack, and enjoying a little friendly banter. The festive atmosphere seems to remind everyone that it’s not about luck alone but the shared experiences that bind the community.
Whether people see Friday the 13th as fortuitous or fearful, one thing is certain—Aiken’s spirit is not easily shaken. In a place where the equestrian culture blends beautifully with close-knit friendships, every side of Friday the 13th is just another opportunity to embrace the charm of everyday life.
Stay Prepared and Have Fun!
As the weekend approaches, our resident DIY expert reminds us of the importance of preparing our homes for the changing seasons. From weatherizing windows to creating a cozy atmosphere, Aiken can easily transform superstition into practicality. Happy Friday the 13th, Aiken—a day when luck, however you define it, finds a way to shine through!
