Crying the Neck

In 'THE STORY OF CORNWALL", 1934, A. K. Hamilton Jenkin writes of the harvest season in old Cornwall:

"In those days the whole of the reaping had to be done either with the hook or scythe. The harvest, in consequence, often lasted for many weeks. When the time came to cut the last handful of standing corn, one of the reapers would lift up the bunch high above his head and call out in a loud voice, "We have it! We have it! We have it!" The rest would then shout, "What 'ave 'ee? What 'ave 'ee? What 'ave 'ee?" and the reply would be, "A neck! A neck! A neck!" Everyone then joined in shouting, "Hurrah! Hurrah for the neck! Hurrah for Mr. So-and-So" (calling the farmer by name.)"

"After this the neck itself was plaited and dressed with flowers, and carried into the farmhouse kitchen. Here it was kept in a place of honour until it made way for the new neck of the following year. This ceremony also probably originated in far-off times when the god of growth, or "spirit of the harvest," was thought to dwell in the standing corn. Here again, as in the May Day festivals, we see the desire of primitive man to bring the life-giving spirit into his own dwelling."

"On the evening of the neck-cutting the farmer often gave a supper to his workpeople, which put them in good heart for the rest of the harvest. During the succeeding weeks the corn was carried and built up into ricks adjoining the farmhouse. This was always an anxious time, and if the weather was uncertain everyone would be ready to lend a hand."

"At last, when all the precious corn was saved, came the harvest supper, or "Guldize." The first course generally consisted of potatoes and broiled pork, or else beef and mutton, served up in a huge crock capable of holding twelve or fourteen gallons. This was followed by plum or rice puddings, and apple dumplings, served with great bowls of cream. Bread and butter, cheese and heavy cakes were also provided to "fill up the gaps", whilst the whole was washed down with spirits, cider, beer or (more recently) strong tea. The evening concluded with songs, dances, and games, which were kept up to a late hour."

From Joan in Colorado

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