Pow-Wows, or Long Lost Friend

Pow-Wows, or Long Lost Friend is a collection of Pennsylvania Dutch folk remedies and healing practices published in 1820. The text serves as a grimoire of folk magic, containing spells, charms, and healing formulas passed down through German-American communities. The book compiles practical instructions for treating ailments in humans and livestock, protecting property, and solving everyday problems through folk magic methods. Each entry provides specific directions for implementing the remedies, including required materials and verbal incantations in both German and English. John George Hohman wrote this work based on his experiences as a healer and knowledge gathered from the Pennsylvania Dutch community. The book remained in continuous publication for over 100 years and became a fundamental text in pow-wow healing traditions. The text offers insights into early American folk religion and the blending of Christian and folk magic beliefs in frontier communities. Its enduring influence demonstrates the persistence of traditional healing practices alongside modern medicine.

Readers describe this folk magic text as a straightforward collection of Pennsylvania Dutch healing practices, charms, and remedies. Many note its historical value as documentation of 19th century German-American folk traditions. Readers appreciate: - Simple, clear instructions for remedies - Insights into early American folk beliefs - The blend of Christian prayers with magical practices - Value as a research reference Common criticisms: - Repetitive content - Poor English translation from German - Lack of context or explanation - Some remedies seem dangerous or impractical Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (120+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (300+ ratings) Several reviewers mention using it as a historical reference rather than a practical guide. Multiple readers note the book requires background knowledge of folk magic traditions to fully understand. Some criticize the formatting and organization in newer editions. One reader summarized it as "fascinating but requires careful interpretation of outdated medical advice."

The Long-Lost Friend: A 19th Century American Grimoire by Daniel Harms This scholarly edition contains extensive notes on the cultural context and folk magic traditions that influenced Hohman's original work.

Egyptian Secrets of Albertus Magnus by Albertus Magnus This grimoire contains Christian folk magic remedies and practices that parallel many found in Hohman's work.

Forbidden Mysteries of Faery Witchcraft by Storm Faerywolf This practical guide explores the Pennsylvania Dutch folk magic traditions that influenced Hohman's writings.

The Red Church by Christopher Bilardi This text documents the powwow healing traditions and folk magic practices of the Pennsylvania Dutch culture from which Hohman's work emerged.

American Folk Magick by Silver RavenWolf This handbook examines the Pow-wow tradition and hexerei practices that form the foundation of Hohman's collection of spells and remedies.

🔮 First published in 1820 in Pennsylvania German, this grimoire became so influential that some Pennsylvania courts would allow suspects to go free if they could prove they didn't own a copy of the book. 📖 The book combines Christian prayers with folk magic practices, drawing from European traditions and Native American healing methods, creating a unique blend of spiritual and practical remedies. 🏡 Many Pennsylvania Dutch families considered it bad luck not to own a copy of "Long Lost Friend," and the book was often stored near the family Bible as a protective household talisman. ⚖️ In 1929, the book played a central role in a murder case known as the "York Hex Murder," where three men killed a suspected witch who they believed had cursed them. They claimed their actions were justified based on folk magic beliefs described in the book. 🌿 Unlike many occult texts of its time, Hohman's book focuses primarily on practical healing magic and household solutions, including cures for livestock ailments, protection against thieves, and methods for extinguishing fires through prayer.