A number of traditions formed for celebrating the new year. Some varied by region or county. Family traditions for good luck prevailed over general social convention.  Some families gathered whomever was in the house in a circle before midnight. At the stroke of midnight, the head of the family would open the door and usher out the old and welcome the new. Some who held to old superstitions went further, removing ashes, rags, scraps and anything … Continue reading →