What Are Witch Markings? Witch markings, also known as apotropaic marks, are not mere random scratchings. Rather, they were carefully carved symbols intended to ward off evil spirits, malevolent witches, and other perceived supernatural threats. Shapes like the hexafoil, maze, daisy wheel and double V invoking the Virgin Mary’s protection were painstakingly etched into stone and wood with the belief that these “deflection marks” could confuse and entrap malign forces, preventing them from entering the consecrated space.
Scratch Motif
Donald Dean (b.1930) Kirkleatham Museum ). Image courtesy of Kirkleatham Museum and Grounds.
An Ancient Graffiti Tradition While previously dismissed as masons’ marks or idle vandalism, researchers like Matthew Champion have revealed these markings to be part of an ages-old folk magic tradition spanning medieval times through the early modern era. Simple farming families, craftsmen, and villagers alike made such ritualistic carvings around doors, windows, fireplaces and valued possessions – anywhere a protective talisman was needed against the unseen perils believed to lurk all around in those superstition-filled days.
Tees Valley’s Own Ritual Markings
Here in Tees Valley, our historic buildings are veritable treasure troves of these long-overlooked witch marks and apotropaic symbols. Intricately carved daisy wheels, mesh patterns, pentangles, and letter charms like VV or AM invoking saintly aid can still be found adorning the layers of old cottages, barns, caves, and even churches and chapels where they were scratch-etched by Teesside residents over many generations.
Each mark uncovered reveals another glimpse into the magic-steeped worldview and spiritual defences practiced by our local ancestors. They connected spiritually to their homes, lands and livelihoods in ways we can scarcely fathom today through these votive offerings warding night spirits, baneful omens, and any ill-wishing evil from dark corners.
Dating and Locations Dating these ancient graffiti can be challenging, as they were often repeatedly marked over generations. The oldest securely dated examples are from the mid-13th century, but they continued to be widely used well into the 18th century across the region. In Tees Valley, these protective symbols have been discovered in a variety of historical sites like churches, chapels, cottages, barns, agricultural buildings and even caves, providing a timeline of local beliefs and practices.
Echoes of a Living Tradition While the widespread practice of rendering literal witch marks declined with the rise of rationalism and industrial era, echoes still linger in certain folk customs of ritual protection. Coastal mariners have carried on adorning their narrowboats with hexafoils, and other regional crafts continue more subtly encoding such symbols in their wares.
At the Tees Valley Museum, we are committed to rediscovering and celebrating this vital element of our heritage before it fades forever from cultural memory. Our new exhibit spaces will showcase prime examples of locally-found witch marks and explore their meanings through the lens of the beliefs, folklore, and turbulent times that gave rise to this magical graffiti phenomenon.
We invite you to visit and uncover the hidden witch marks still gracing Tees Valley’s vernacular architecture. Let our expert docents guide you into this captivating world of ritual protection and spiritual symbolism that profoundly shaped the premodern Tees Valley experience. There is always more to discover about the rich, mystical history of our beloved region.
