Centuries ago, it was common for southerners to paint porch overhangs haint blue. The remnants of this trend can still be seen today in homes throughout the South, including Arkansas. Despite the trend’s popularity, though, many don’t know the reason behind it. Some claim it keeps the porch cooler, others believe it repels bugs, and some say it extends daylight hours. However, as it turns out, the tradition was actually borne out of superstition.

The act of painting porch ceilings haint blue goes back over 300 years and began with the Gullah people from Africa.
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Though a common sight in many southern towns, blue-hued porches were especially popular in Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC.
To understand the tradition, you first have to know what a “haint” is.
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It’s a restless, evil spirit that seeks to wreak havoc on anyone who crosses its path.
According to Gullah tradition, haints have one weakness – they’re afraid of water.
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And so, the Gullahs painted their porch ceilings blue, in the hopes that haints would be tricked into thinking the paint was water, and stay away.

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Eventually, the term “haint blue” was coined. However, haint blue isn’t just one shade of blue.
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Instead, it’s a group of blue hues that were originally made from the indigo plant, which explains why there are so many variations of the color.
The trend of painting porch ceilings blue has died down in recent years.
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But, that doesn’t mean blue-hued porches no longer exist.
Haint blue porch overhangs can still be found throughout the South.
Quapaw Quarter Association/Facebook
Here in Arkansas, the Governor’s Mansion Historic District boasts several homes with the colorful feature. Also, the trend remains prevalent in cities where Victorian homes are popular, such as Philadelphia and Boston.

So, were you aware of this longstanding tradition? Did you know the reason behind it? Ever spotted any blue porch ceilings in Arkansas? Tell us!

This isn’t the only tradition that’s been carried on throughout the decades. Click here for 15 Arkansas traditions that will never die.

 

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