Unveiling the Joggling Board: A Southern Tradition

Discover the fascinating history and secret meanings behind the iconic porch swings adorning homes in the American South.

Origin Story: Cleland Kinloch’s Innovation

In 1804, Cleland Kinloch of South Carolina introduced his widowed sister, Mary Kinloch Huger, to a unique rocking board from Scotland, offering her relief from joint pain while simulating carriage rides.

Romantic Traditions on the Porch

Young couples embraced the joggling board as a favored spot for courtship rituals, its rocking motion fostering intimacy and providing a serene setting for heartfelt conversations and stolen kisses.

source: Wikimedia

Secret Meaning: Courting on the Joggling Board

The joggling board became synonymous with marital happiness, with a belief that its presence ensured no unwed daughters would reside in the home, leading families to proudly display it as a symbol of future happiness.

source: VIA THEJOGGLEFACTORY.COM

Acquiring Your Own Piece of History

If you’re enchanted by the allure of the joggling board and wish to bring this Southern tradition to your own porch, you’re in luck. These iconic benches are still crafted today, available for purchase through specialized stores, online platforms, and artisan workshops.

Enduring Symbol of Southern Romance

With its roots in the early 19th century, the joggling board remains a cherished symbol of courtship, romance, and marital bliss in Southern households, continuing to grace front porches and enchant visitors with its timeless charm.

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