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Mummering or Jannying... |
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Mummering (Jannying) is a tradition in Newfoundland and Pennsylvania that was brought to this side of the Atlantic by settlers from England and Ireland. The earliest recorded date of Mummering in Newfoundland is 1819. Although Mummering has declined somewhat, it is still a tradition entrenched in the heritage of Newfoundlanders. Mummering is an event that occurs during the Twelve Days of Christmas. Mummers travel, disguised, in groups and visit local homes. The mark of the Mummer is their knock, as a knock on the door indicated a stranger was present. The mummer's costume is meant to conceal one's identity. Costumes are typically large and loose, and consist of anything deemed appropriate. This can range from loose fitting clothing to bed sheets. Concealing one's identity is important as an aspect of Mummering is for the host to identify who the Mummers are. Crucial to the costume is the mask. As with the costumes the masks are made up of anything on hand, including curtains, cotton sacks, pillowcases, silk or nylon stockings, cardboard boxes that are painted, and face painting. In the 1950's and early 1960's stores began to sell masks, which have been used in the past as well. Another facet of the costume is the hat, used to reveal recognizable body parts, such as the hair or someone's ears. Headgear, as with the rest of the outfit, is equally ridiculous. They can include straw hats, cardboard hats, oilskin hats, buckets, a lampshade, and so forth. Mummers visit local homes and entertain their hosts by dancing, singing, or playing instruments. While the host tries to identify the Mummers, it is customary for them to offer food and beverages to their guests. Once identified, the Mummer is supposed to remove their masks and enjoy the rest of the party. Simani, a local band, wrote a song about Mummering, that is played on radio stations every Christmas, which details the tradition. |
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In The Shipping News,
Annie Proulx makes the statement, "... of old-time teak days and Mummers
and Jannies." (p. 281)