ATLANTA – If you’re looking for some good fortune in 2019, you might be one of the many people who follow the tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day.
Why are black-eyed peas considered good luck?
During the Civil War, black-eyed peas were considered trash food that was used to feed the livestock.
Then came General Sherman.
His march to the sea left a trail of destruction. For many in the south, all that was left were those black-eyed peas. Southern families felt lucky to have them.
As the south rebuilt after the war, black-eyed peas became a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Some believe they represent coins.
Many will serve them with collard greens that represent dollar bills.
Add in corn bread, a symbol of gold, and you’ve got a traditional New Year’s southern meal.
In some homes, the tradition involves hiding a coin inside of a pot of peas. The person served the coin will receive special blessings during the new year.
Unless, of course, they accidentally swallow the coin.