witch ball, Boston & Sandwich Glass Company

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The name “witch ball” accurately reflects the mystical powers believed to be associated with these spheres. Originally the globes were filled with herbs thought to ward off witches and evil spirits. Because these "demons" were said to fear roundness, the shape of the balls provided extra protection from the forces of evil. The balls were hung in homes to protect children, as well as in barns to protect livestock. Spheres with loop patterns, such as this one, were intended to be hung in children’s room or on porches, while solid colored spheres were used for outbuildings. Easily confused with the witch ball are militia balls, which were stoppers for gun muzzles, and target balls, which were used for shooting practice.