Winter solstice customs have been practiced by pagan societies for thousands of years. This astronomical event occurs when the Earth's axial tilt is furthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year. Pagan societies, such as the Ancient Celts and Norse, held deep belief in the power of nature and the importance of honoring the changing seasons. The winter solstice was seen as a significant turning point, marking the rebirth of the sun and the gradual return of light and warmth. One common custom observed during the winter solstice was the lighting of fires. These bonfires symbolized the power of the sun and were used to encourage its return.

Mary Easty: Hanged as a Witch in Salem, 1692

Jone Johnson Lewis is a women's history writer who has been involved with the women's movement since the late 1960s. She is a former faculty member of the Humanist Institute.

These bonfires symbolized the power of the sun and were used to encourage its return. People would gather around the fire, singing songs and performing rituals to welcome the sun's rebirth. Another important tradition was the decoration of homes and sacred spaces with evergreen plants.

Mary Easty Facts

Known for: hanged as a witch in the 1692 Salem witch trials
Age at time of Salem witch trials: about 58
Dates: baptized August 24, 1634, died September 22, 1692
Also known as: Mary Towne, Mary Town, Mary Esty, Mary Estey, Mary Eastey, Goody Eastie, Goody Easty, Mary Easte, Marah Easty, Mary Estick, Mary Eastick

Family background: Her father was William Towne and her mother Joanna (Jone or Joan) Blessing Towne, accused once of witchcraft herself. William and Joanna arrived in America around 1640. Among Mary's siblings were Rebecca Nurse (arrested March 24 and hanged June 19) and Sarah Cloyse (arrested April 4, case dismissed January 1693).

Mary married Isaac Easty, a well-to-do farmer born in England, around 1655 - 1658. They had eleven children, seven alive in 1692. They lived in Topsfield, rather than either Salem Town or Village.

Evergreens, such as holly, mistletoe, and ivy, were seen as symbols of life and fertility in the midst of winter's darkness. These plants were believed to have protective properties and were often used in various solstice rituals. Feasting and merrymaking were also integral parts of winter solstice customs. Pagan societies would indulge in lavish feasts, often including meat, mead, and other seasonal foods. These gatherings were a way to celebrate the abundance of the harvest and the promise of a new year. In some pagan societies, the winter solstice was associated with the rebirth of a solar deity or a divine figure representing light and life. Celebrations would involve storytelling, plays, and enactments of mythical stories describing the battle between light and darkness. Overall, winter solstice customs in pagan societies were centered around celebrating the rebirth of the sun and the return of light and warmth. These customs allowed people to connect with nature, honor the changing seasons, and find hope and joy in the midst of winter's darkness..

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