Walpurgisnacht Enamel Pin

[John Bart]

Would welcome any opinions on the significance of this badge.
Walpurgisnacht is Halloween night, correct? Have a look.
Sorry for the lousy pic. It reads "AUF DEM BROCKEN."

[John Bart]

reverse, unmarked

[Richard]

John, can't say too much about the pin, but here's some info on Walpurgisnacht.
Richard V



May 1 marks the final victory of Spring over Winter, but before departing, the witches and their cohorts have one last fling. The night from April 30 to May 1 is called "Walpurgisnacht", the night of Walpurgis or Walpurga. The festival is marked by numerous rituals to ward off evil. Legend has it that on Walpurgisnacht the witches would gather on the Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. Because of the Walpurgisnacht scene in Goethe's Faust, in which Mephistopheles takes Faust to the Brocken and has him revel with the witches, the witches gathering became widely known.

Under Christian influence Walpurgisnacht became a fest to drive out evil spirits. Walpurgis derives its name from Walpurga or Walburga. Walburga, Abbess of Heidenheim near Eichstätt, a Catholic Saint, was known as the protectoress against witchcraft and sorcery. On the Eve of May 1, bells may toll in some areas and prayers may be said; there may be blessings with holy-water and blessed sprigs can be found in homes and barns. The most widespread remedy against evil spirits during Walpurgisnacht is noise. As soon as the sun sets, boys of all ages may make noise. Their equipment ranges from boards to beat onto the ground to pistols for firing shots. In Bavaria the night from April 30 to May 1 is called a Freinacht or Drudennacht. For youth it is an opportunity to play tricks.

[John Bart]

Hi Richard,
Thanks for the background on Walpurgisnacht.
Fascinating to say the least. The occult side of nature has always
held my attention.
There might have been a festival held on May 6th?

[MJC]

Each year there still is a festival on the Brocken. Fun to see, beautiful part of the Harz. I have more info that I'll try to find. PM me if you are interested.

Best,

Mike

[John Bart]

Mike,
Thanks for your reply.