Punxsutawney Phil and other Strange American Traditions

The Reference Desk

In this episode, Hailee explains the quirky and beloved tradition of Groundhog Day in America, from origins in ancient beliefs to a quaint local observance to a nationally recognized phenomenon. We will also explore a few other quirky American traditions, including the Presidential turkey pardon and a unique form of communication in the rural south.

All books shared in this episode can be purchased at our Bookshop!

Staff picks:

• Big by Vashti Harrison
• There Was a Party for Langston by Jason Reynolds, illustrated by Jerome and Jeremy Pumphries

Recommended reading

Non-Fiction

• Weird U.S.: Your Travel Guide to America's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets by Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman

Fiction

• Opposite of Always by Justin A. Reynolds
• The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
• Neverworld Wake by Marisha Pessl

Sources:

• Groundhog Was Once on Punxsutawney’s Menu
• The Curious (and Possibly Murderous) Origins of Punxsutawney Phil's Name
• The bizarre history of Groundhog Day
• The Surprising History Behind Groundhog Day
• Pardoning the Thanksgiving Turkey
• Hollerin’ History
• “The Lost Art of Hollerin’”
• The Rise and Fall of North Carolina’s National Hollerin’ Contest

Support the Show.