Old Welsch custom of giving a gift of food with one serving missing.
The “Promise” of the gesture was that this gift would not be given if it were not at least good enough for the person giving the gift. The missing serving was presumed to be used to confirm the quality of the item and evaluate possible improvements.
The custom is thought to have originated in the mid-seventeenth century.
The “Promise” of the gesture was that this gift would not be given if it were not at least good enough for the person giving the gift. The missing serving was presumed to be used to confirm the quality of the item and evaluate possible improvements.
The custom is thought to have originated in the mid-seventeenth century.
We did not understand why our Thanksgiving turkey only had one wing until my grandfather explained the custom of the Welsch promise, and it’s purpose of honoring his guests.
by Juan Moore Beer October 19, 2023